This research qualitatively analyzed the contents of national and international scientific publications, indexed in the period from 1999 to 2005, about low back pain in gestation. Around 50 % of pregnant women complain about low back pain. The physiologic modifications that occur happen in pregnancy alter the posture of pregnant women and the largest incidence of low back pain usually happens in the last three months. Specific causes remain unknown. However, treatment involves analgesics, antiphlogistics, exercises and physiotherapy. Low back pain during gestation is a symptom that causes great discomfort and, depending on the level of pain, it generates motor disability and impairs daily activities, besides causing problems to take care of the baby after birth. Some discomfort of low back pain can continue for a period of up to three years after childbirth. We see a great need for further research in this subject area, in order to provide a better quality of life for pregnant women.
low back pain; pregnancy complications; pain