During a childbirth preparation class, a primigravid client at 36 weeks reports lower back pain. Which exercise would be most helpful?

During a childbirth preparation class, a primigravid client at 36 weeks reports lower back pain. Which exercise would be most helpful?

• A. Pelvic rocking
• B. Knee-to-chest stretch
• C. Abdominal crunches
• D. Arm circles

Answer: (A)

Lower back pain in late pregnancy often comes from the spine curving more (increased lumbar lordosis) and muscle strain around the pelvis. A pelvic rocking exercise directly helps by gently tilting the pelvis posteriorly, which flattens the small of the back against the support surface and eases lower-back tension. It also promotes better hip and pelvic mobility, strengthens the abdominal muscles that support the pelvis, and can be soothing in preparation for labor. It’s a safe, low‑risk option for a 36‑week primigravida when done slowly with normal breathing and appropriate comfort. Knee-to-chest stretches can relieve back tension but may be less comfortable or impractical near term due to abdominal crowding and uterine pressure. Abdominal crunches are not ideal in late pregnancy because they can strain the abdominal wall and risk diastasis recti. Arm circles don’t address the lower back or pelvic alignment and are not targeted for pregnancy-related back pain.

Lower back pain in late pregnancy often comes from the spine curving more (increased lumbar lordosis) and muscle strain around the pelvis. A pelvic rocking exercise directly helps by gently tilting the pelvis posteriorly, which flattens the small of the back against the support surface and eases lower-back tension. It also promotes better hip and pelvic mobility, strengthens the abdominal muscles that support the pelvis, and can be soothing in preparation for labor. It’s a safe, low‑risk option for a 36‑week primigravida when done slowly with normal breathing and appropriate comfort.

Knee-to-chest stretches can relieve back tension but may be less comfortable or impractical near term due to abdominal crowding and uterine pressure. Abdominal crunches are not ideal in late pregnancy because they can strain the abdominal wall and risk diastasis recti. Arm circles don’t address the lower back or pelvic alignment and are not targeted for pregnancy-related back pain.