Many problems during pregnancy are associated with changing posture and distirbution of weight .  Issues such as a sore lower back, sciatica, headaches and neck pain can be attributed to improper posture and standing and sitting correctly is so significant as baby’s ever increasing weight plays havoc with the pelvis and lumber spine.

Since the weight of the infant may not be aligned with the mother’s centre of gravity, it can impact the mother’s postural positioning (especially in the pelvis and lower back). Ligaments relaxed from the impact of the relaxin hormone, exacerbate the affect on posture.

If you feel that you do not have the time or cannot make the effort to maintain your posture, then think again!  Comfortable pregnancy leads to a more relaxed birth and ultimately a happy mother.

Pain in the lower back occurs during pregnancy once the spine over extends. The abdominal muscles start to expand as the baby becomes larger and one cannot longer maintain good posture. The weight of the baby tugs the lower portion of the spine forward increasing the stresses and strains in the spine’s disks, muscles and ligaments. To make up for the weight, several moms-to-be arch their upper body backwards, and that can make an even worse postural deviation in the lower back.

Offsetting babies weight and   slouching forward when fatigued causes other problems because it can be harder to breathe and slouching forces the ribs down upon the stomach. In extreme cases, stomach acid can be pushed into the oesophagus causing heartburn.

Some of the most common physical problems of pregnancy can be avoided by standing or sitting with good posture. Stretches, remedial massage from trained therapists and exercising may play a key part. Nevertheless, a word of warning must be noted that it is imperative to stretch lightly and not to participate in exercises that put any unnecessary stress on the joints. Check with your doctor before attempting any workout regimen

Hints for Keeping Excellent Pregnancy Posture:

1. Remember to stand up straight by thinking about a string attached to the top of your head that an individual is pulling on.

2. Hold your tummy in to minimise the arch in your lower back and try to keep a pelvic tilt.

3. Hold in your buttocks to be certain that your center of gravity is above your hips (since as along with the abdominal muscles, this serves as a natural corset for the lower back ).

4. Do not forget to keep your knees relaxed when standing because clinching the knees can heighten the arch of your lower back.

5. Pick an ideal straight-backed chair to sit on. Keep a pelvic tilt and do not stoop with your knees level with your hips. Sitting with your legs crossed is always to be avoided as this will reduce the circulation of blood back from your legs and potentially increase any swelling in your legs.  In addition it is a risk factor in the formation of varicose veins.

A small cushion, a pillow or a rolled up towel may be used if you feel as though you require additional lumber support when sitting.

6. When going to sleep, it is advisable to lie on your side because it is a perfect position to relive strain off your lower back without lessening blood flow to the placenta. By putting a pillow between your legs then you can hold the weight of the top leg to lesson stress on the lower back. Some like to put a pillow under their tummy to help in supporting the heaviness of the uterus.

After nearly the 4rth month of pregnancy, stop back sleeping because the heaviness of the baby and uterus can condense blood vessels. This can decrease the blood flow to the placenta and the baby.