Treatment of back pain during pregnancy
Back pain during pregnancy can have various causes, which sometimes have nothing to do with the existing pregnancy. In some cases the back pain was already present before the pregnancy. In addition, an increased body weight by the pregnancy, an increasing hollow back or a lack of fitness can cause a back pain.
Pelvic pain, which occurs mainly in late pregnancy, often imitates back pain. Unfortunately, painkillers are not very helpful in this case. Much more effective are strengthening exercises for the back and light training.
Fitness courses for pregnant women that are specially designed for the back are particularly recommended. Yoga or swimming are also considered very beneficial by many pregnant women. Furthermore, massages, warm baths and support pillows can help against the pain.
If you do want to take painkillers, it is advisable to discuss this with your treating doctor. In most cases the painkillers are of little or no help. If taking them is absolutely necessary, paracetamol is recommended. Ibuprofen is a possible alternative, but is not suitable after the 28th week of pregnancy.
Treatment of migraine during pregnancy
Migraine attacks can also occur during pregnancy, so treatment with painkillers is often necessary. If you have a mild migraine, it can help to withdraw to a quiet, darkened room for the duration of the pain attack. However, for many of those affected, this is not enough, so painkillers must be taken.
However, there are some important aspects to consider. Triptans, which are used outside of pregnancy for the treatment of a migraine attack, are not permitted during pregnancy because there is a lack of experience. To relieve the symptoms of a migraine attack, paracetamol can be used in the usual dosage. Between the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy, Aspirin® may also be used to a limited extent. However, Aspirin® must not be used in the last trimester of pregnancy because of the increased risks for the mother and the unborn child.
