This is a complex topic! In fact, the spine is complex on its own, and pregnancy is no different. When we combine the two, we have to see what will happen. For those who already experience back pain before pregnancy, the biggest fear is that it will worsen. For those who don't have it, the biggest fear is developing it. After all, if there's one thing we all want to avoid, it's pain... Especially in the spine!
What inspires me to write about this today is the number of questions I frequently receive from readers of my blog and even journalists about what it was like to go through pregnancy while dealing with scoliosis. For those unfamiliar, scoliosis is a three-dimensional deviation of the spine, creating a lateral deformity, like the letter 'S'. Since I had to undergo surgery, people's curiosity is even greater. I completely understand this question because I had many doubts about how the spine typically behaves while carrying our babies in the belly and, especially, how it would be for me, a case of scoliosis. Well, the news from me is encouraging:
No, I didn't have any pain, not even a hint. The lumbar region, over the months, became a bit more tired, so it required me to lean back occasionally on the bed or sofa. But actual pain never came close.
Being operated did not hinder me at all: I continued with all movements normally. After a while, what actually hinders is the big belly, not the back!
I tried to take sporadic and light walks outdoors to release body tension.
I could have done any sport I wanted: the doctor cleared most things. I didn't do it out of laziness.
I didn't do Pilates (after the first three months) and no Physiotherapy, for the same reason as above. But I know that these activities would have helped me feel more agile and less tired.
My delivery was a cesarean section because initially, I could only have general anesthesia. This is due to the metal rod, which leaves little space for the application of an epidural in the spine. In the end, everything worked out, and I didn't need the general anesthesia. If we had known this from the beginning, yes, I could have tried a normal delivery without any worries.
Most importantly, for those looking to avoid compensation and back pain during pregnancy, follow medical recommendations as much as possible, including in terms of weight gain. Surely, the higher the weight, the greater the chances of experiencing pain and discomfort, not only in the spine but throughout the body. Additionally, try to stay in motion whenever possible. Taking a walk and doing light water aerobics always helps. But, of course, never do anything without your doctor's knowledge. After all, each case is unique.
In the end, just wait for the baby to come into the world and be happy!!!!
This chronicle was published on the Pais&Filhos magazine website in December 2011.
