What does back pain in pregnancy feel like with pelvic girdle pain?

Back Pain in Pregnancy is a very common presentation of Pelvic Girdle Pain. The discomfort may sit across the lower back, buttocks, hips or the joints at the front and back of the pelvis. It can feel aching, burning, sharp or heavy, and may flare with movement rather than staying at one steady level.

Pelvic girdle pain can make walking, climbing stairs, turning in bed, standing on one leg, getting out of a car or separating the legs uncomfortable. Some people notice clicking or grinding around the pelvis, while others feel pain spreading into the groin or thighs. The pattern can change as pregnancy progresses. Back pain can also have other causes, so the sensation alone cannot identify the source.

Change position regularly, keep movements symmetrical, and sit down to dress rather than balancing on one leg. Keep your knees together when turning in bed or getting in and out of a car. Supportive footwear, pillows between the knees, and guidance from a maternity physiotherapist may help. Ask your maternity team which pain relief is suitable for your pregnancy before taking medicine.

Contact your maternity unit promptly if back pain is severe, suddenly different, or comes with regular tightening, vaginal bleeding, fluid loss, fever, pain when urinating, or reduced fetal movement. Seek urgent help for leg weakness, numbness around the genitals, or loss of bladder or bowel control. Otherwise, arrange an assessment if pain limits walking, sleep or daily activities.

Could this pattern fit pelvic girdle pain, and should I see a physiotherapist? Which activities should I modify? What pain relief can I use safely? Which changes would mean I should contact the maternity unit?