As your baby grows during the second part of the pregnancy, back pain is an unwelcome but normal part of the whole process.

What causes back pain during pregnancy?
The hormone relaxin is responsible for the aches you feel in your back. Its main job is to loosen your pelvic joints in preparation for childbirth, but sometimes it does its job too well so your back joints may be affected, too.

Ways to relieve back pain apart from medications:

- Practice good posture when sitting and standing. Poor posture will only worsen back pain.

- Do stretching exercises. Regular stretching relaxes your muscles and makes them less tense. Prenatal yoga and swimming are very effective exercises for pregnant women with back pain.

- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting. This will only burn you out and bring more tension to your back.

- Sleep on a firm mattress. This will ensure your body lies on a consistent sleeping position that will help your back pain.