What causes lower back soreness and swelling at 33 weeks of pregnancy?

May 11, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Lv Aiming

Introduction

At 33 weeks of pregnancy, the load on the lumbar spine increases accordingly, making lower back pain and discomfort more likely after physical exertion or prolonged standing. If insufficient calcium intake leads to calcium deficiency, it may result in osteoporosis and lumbar muscle spasms, causing the aforementioned discomfort. In individuals with pre-existing lumbar disc disease, the added burden from uterine enlargement during pregnancy further increases stress on the lower back, leading to symptoms of soreness and distension.

Lower back aching and distension at 33 weeks of pregnancy is usually caused by physiological factors, but may also result from pathological conditions such as calcium deficiency or lumbar disc herniation. The underlying cause should be identified and treated accordingly. Specific analyses are as follows:

I. Physiological Causes

At 33 weeks of pregnancy, as gestational age increases, the weight of the fetus, amniotic fluid, and the pregnant woman's own body gradually increases, leading to greater load on the lumbar spine. This can easily cause lower back aching and discomfort, especially after fatigue or prolonged standing. Symptoms typically improve with rest and do not require specific treatment.

II. Pathological Causes

1. Calcium Deficiency

As the fetus develops, the pregnant woman's calcium requirements increase. Insufficient calcium intake may lead to calcium deficiency, resulting in osteoporosis and muscle spasms in the lower back, causing the aforementioned discomfort. Calcium supplements such as calcium gluconate oral solution or calcium carbonate tablets may be taken under medical guidance.

2. Lumbar Disc Herniation

Pregnant women who already have lumbar disc disease may experience increased spinal load due to uterine enlargement during pregnancy, leading to lower back aching and distension. Local heat application or gentle massage may help relieve symptoms.

In addition to the above causes, symptoms might also stem from preterm labor, pelvic inflammatory disease, or adnexitis during pregnancy, often accompanied by vaginal bleeding. Pregnant women are advised to get adequate rest, avoid fatigue and sexual intercourse, and seek evaluation and treatment at a hospital obstetrics and gynecology department to determine the exact cause.

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Can I eat crayfish at 33 weeks of pregnancy?

Generally speaking, pregnant women can moderately consume crawfish at 33 weeks of gestation. Crawfish is a food rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Protein is very important for the development and growth of both the pregnant woman and the fetus. Choosing high-quality protein sources such as crawfish helps maintain the health of both mother and baby. Crawfish is also rich in iron, which can help meet the increased iron requirements during pregnancy.

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Can the fetal position change at 33 weeks of pregnancy if it's currently head-down? Will a head-down position at 33 weeks change?

At 33 weeks of pregnancy, whether the fetal head-down position can still change depends on factors such as fetal size and amniotic fluid volume. If the fetus is relatively small and there is abundant amniotic fluid, providing ample space for movement within the uterus, the fetal position may still change. However, due to gravitational effects, it is unlikely for a head-down position to shift to a breech position. If the fetus is large, movement within the uterus is restricted, making positional changes improbable. It is recommended to have regular check-ups to monitor fetal position and assess the baby's condition in utero.