Pregnancy is a special event and time in our lives. But, your posture during pregnancy, especially in the latter months, is more under assault than ever.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase the elasticity of ligaments and tendons to prepare you for the moment of birth; this makes you more vulnerable to injury.

You are carrying more weight, so you are more fatigued, more likely to exaggerate any postural problems you may already have.

When lying down, it is more difficult to find comfort or obtain uninterrupted sleep. There is a high probability of lower back pain due to the shear and torque forces of your expanded tummy as you try to sleep on your side. This is made even more difficult when most physicians recommend that you sleep only on your left side during the third trimester to avoid impeding return blood flow from your legs. That’s a tall order!

Tossing, turning and insomnia oft enter the picture. Loss of sleep lowers your pain threshold and the cycle of misery begins.

Standing is made more difficult because the center of gravity shifts forward; core and lower back muscles may become strained.

Sitting has its difficulties as well. More weight on your hips and upper leg tissues accountable to your increased weight means ischemia (reduction or cessation of blood flow) in these tissues and requires you to shift and stand up often. If the sitting surface is not properly structured, it may be very difficult, but it is more necessary to avoid the “C” shaped posture of your lower back and pelvis. This can be the source of lower back pain and even injury.

All up, with proper awareness and attention to sleeping, sitting and standing postures, your pregnancy may be made more pleasurable.

SmartPosture - Being Smart about Posture™