Sacroiliac Joint Pain in the First Trimester of Pregnancy

The sacroiliac joint is found on either side of the spine where the spine joins the pelvis. Pain in the sacroiliac joint is often behind the backache women feel during pregnancy, even in early pregnancy when they have not gained significant weight. Sacroiliac joint pain is sometimes confused with sciatica.

  1. Function

    • During pregnancy the body produces hormones that allow the ligaments holding the pelvic bones in place to stretch and become relaxed. This allows the pelvis to open to accommodate the baby during pregnancy and childbirth. As the sacroiliac joint moves, pain may result.

    Benefits

    • Without the combined flexibility of the bones in a woman's pelvis and the adaptability of the baby's non-fused skull bones, vaginal birth would be extremely difficult and in some cases, impossible. Generally, the joint returns to its normal state after the postpartum period, although some women experience pain during this transition.

    Time Frame

    • Sacroiliac joint pain can begin in the first trimester of pregnancy, and for some women is one of the first symptoms of pregnancy. However, sacroiliac joint pain can occur at any time during pregnancy or even during the postpartum period.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Pelvic tilts help strengthen the abdominal muscles supporting the back. When performed on all fours, pelvic tilts help move the weight of the uterus up and out of the pelvis, and strengthen and relax the back as well. Many women find massage or chiropractic care helpful. St. John's Wort oil can be rubbed onto the lower back to help relieve back pain; herbalist Shannon Anton recommends one ounce of St. John's Wort oil mixed with six ounces of a carrier oil such as olive oil or almond oil, or the direct application of St. John's Wort oil if the pain is severe.

    Considerations

    • As a woman's ligaments soften, her gait is affected, producing the distinctive "waddle" of pregnancy. As your gait changes, and your center of gravity shifts, you should take special care to avoid injury to your lower body, and to prevent falling.

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