OvuloomWhat Is It?
Sciatica during pregnancy is shooting pain that radiates from the lower back through the buttock and down the back of one leg. It affects about 1% of pregnancies and is caused by the sciatic nerve (the body's longest nerve) being compressed or irritated.
Common Causes
Growing uterus pressing on the sciatic nerve, baby's head pressing on the nerve in late pregnancy, weight gain changing spinal alignment, muscle tension in the buttocks (piriformis syndrome), and herniated disc (less common during pregnancy).
⚠️ When to See a Doctor
If pain is severe and limits mobility, if you have numbness or weakness in your leg or foot, if you lose bladder or bowel control, if pain doesn't improve with rest, or if it worsens significantly over time.
💡 Tips & Management
Apply ice to the painful area for 20 minutes several times daily. Try prenatal yoga — pigeon pose and cat-cow stretch help. Swim or do water exercises (buoyancy relieves pressure). Sleep on the opposite side of the pain. Avoid sitting for long periods. Consider a prenatal chiropractor or physical therapist.
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