Early Pregnancy Back Pain: What to Expect & When to Worry

Low back pain is not a typical early pregnancy symptom. Most women do not experience significant back pain until the second or third trimester (due to weight gain, postural shift, relaxin-induced ligament laxity).

If back pain occurs in the first trimester, consider:

• Pre-existing musculoskeletal issue
• Urinary tract infection
• Ectopic pregnancy (if unilateral, with vaginal bleeding, shoulder tip pain – emergency)
• Ovarian cyst

Report any concerning pain to your prenatal provider for appropriate evaluation.