To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

    		•   
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Pediatric Health Library
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Topic IndexLibrary Index
    Click a letter to see a list of conditions beginning with that letter.
    Click 'Topic Index' to return to the index for the current topic.
    Click 'Library Index' to return to the listing of all topics.

    Back Pain During Pregnancy: Moving Safely

    Learning the correct ways to bend, lift, and carry objects may help relieve back strain. It'll also help you protect your back after your baby is born. Remember, if you're having trouble protecting your back, it's okay to ask the people around you for help.

    Bending

    Protect your back as you bend

    Pregnant woman bending over safely.

    • Put one foot slightly in front of the other. Bend at the knees and hips, pushing your hips backward. Keep your upper body as straight as you can.
    • Face forward. Try to keep your ears, shoulders, and hips in a line.
    • Don't hold your breath.

    Lifting

    Lifting a large object or a child

    Pregnant woman lifting object safely.

    • Get as close to the load as you can. Face forward so that your ears and shoulders align.
    • Use the muscles in your thighs and buttocks to stand up. As you lift, tighten your stomach and pelvic floor muscles.
    • Don't hold your breath. Don't twist.

    Carrying

    Carry a load safely

    Pregnant woman carrying bags safely.

    • Carry an object or child in front of you, not resting on your hip.
    • Break up a larger load into two or more smaller ones, if you can. Take more trips if you need to. When using bags, carry one on each side to help you keep your balance.
    • Try to tighten your stomach and pelvic floor muscles as you walk. This helps take weight off your back.
    Online Medical Reviewer: Donna Freeborn PhD CNM FNP
    Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Tennille Dozier RN BSN RDMS
    Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2024
    © 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
    horizontal line

    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center
    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Copyright © The StayWell Company, LLC. except where otherwise noted.
    Disclaimer