Previous physical activity decreases the risk of low back pain and pelvic pain during pregnancy.

AIMS

The aim of the study was to investigate physical activity prior to pregnancy, occupation, and treatment in women with low back pain and pelvic pain (LBPP) during pregnancy.

METHODS

All women who gave birth at two hospitals in northern Sweden from 1 January 2002 to 30 April 2002 were invited to complete a questionnaire on their obstetric and gynaecological history, actual pregnancy, and delivery. The sample was analysed with calculation of odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals (CI). Cox regression analyses were performed. Women with LBPP reporting a pain maximum of 7 or more on a visual analogue scale (0-10 cm) were considered to have "high pain score LBPP" (hps-LBPP).

RESULTS

The response rate was 83% (n = 891). A higher number of years of regular leisure physical activity (RLPA) decreased the risk of LBPP during pregnancy. The risk of hps-LBPP was increased for women who characterized their occupation as "mainly active" (OR = 2.0, 95% CI: 1.1-3.5) and "physically demanding" (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1-3.2). Visiting a physician as a result of LBPP was reported by 46.2%, and the mean number of visits was 2.0. One-third of women with LBPP had received treatment, as had half of women with hps-LBPP.

CONCLUSIONS

A higher number of years of previous RLPA decreases the risk of LBPP during pregnancy. Occupations described as "mainly active" and "physically demanding" are associated with increased risk of hps-LBPP during pregnancy.