BACKGROUND

Low back pain (LBP) and pelvic girdle pain (PGP) are commonly reported during pregnancy and are known to affect pregnant women's well-being. Still, these conditions are often considered to be a normal part of pregnancy. This study assesses the prevalence and severity of LBP and/or PGP among pregnant Nepalese women, as well as exploring factors associated with LBP and PGP.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with successive recruitment of pregnant women was conducted at two district hospitals in Nepal from May 2016 to May 2017. The data was collected using self-reported questionnaires. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess the associations between independent variables and LBP and/or PGP.

RESULTS

A total of 1284 pregnant women were included in the study. The reported prevalence of pregnancy-related LBP and/or PGP was 34%. Pain intensity was high with a mean score (standard deviation) of 6 (2). The median (25th-75th percentiles) disability scores according to the total Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire and Oswestry Disability Index were 20 (10-32) and 30 (21-38), respectively. Even though only 52% of the women believed that the pain would disappear after delivery, concern about LBP and/or PGP was reported to be low (median 2 (0-4) (Numeric Rating Scale 0-10)). In the final model for women with LBP and/or PGP the adjusted odds ratios were for body mass index (20-24, 25-30, > 30) 0.7 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.44-1.21), 1.1 (95% CI, 0.66-1.83), and 1.5 (95% CI, 0.78-2.94) respectively, for pelvic organ prolapse symptoms 6.6 (95% CI, 4.93-8.95) and for women with educated husbands (primary or secondary, higher secondary or above) 1.1 (95% CI, 0.53-2.16) and 1.7 (95% CI, 0.84-3.47), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant Nepalese women commonly report LBP and/or PGP. The women experienced low disability despite severe pain intensity and poor beliefs in recovery after delivery.