Week 18: Your Back -- It's a Sore Spot
Is it a girl? A boy? How about a melon? Yes, your uterus is about the size of a cantaloupe this week (see how you're working your way through the produce department?) and can be felt about one and a half inches below your belly button � so have a feel. And speaking of feeling, in the next few weeks you'll also start feeling those first momentous fetal movements (they might feel more like gas bubbles) � assuring you that you are indeed carrying a baby and not a large fruit.
Something else you may be feeling is back pain. Your growing uterus shifts your center of gravity, and your lower back is pulled forward while your abdomen is thrust out (good for tipping off the guy who got the last seat on the bus that you're pregnant, bad for your back muscles). Couple that with the changes that the hormone relaxin is instituting � namely relaxing all your ligaments (including those that attach your pelvic bones to your spine) and loosening joints � and that leaves you with backaches and pains.
You can reduce back pain by using a foot rest to elevate your feet slightly when sitting. Even when standing, placing one foot on a low stool (when possible) can also take some pressure off your lower back. A long, warm bath can also do wonders for your aching back. If you have back pain that just won't quit, be sure to talk to your practitioner about it.

posted by Megan