Acupuncture for pregnancy-related pain in the lower back and posterior pelvic girdle.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION Low back pain and pelvic pain are common conditions during pregnancy, and they can persist even after delivery1. The etiology of this phenomenon is complex, likely involving mechanical, circulatory, hormonal, and psychosocial factors2. Although there are no organic or specific diseases in most cases, the effects of pain can be considerable, negatively affecting sleep quality, physical condition, work performance, social life, and leisure activities, as well as leading to economic losses due to absenteeism1,3. The experience of pain during pregnancy is widespread, and its treatment poses significant challenges4. Some pain-relieving medications can pose dangers to both the fetus and the mother, while inadequate pain management can lead to severe maternal consequences such as depression and high blood pressure4. Due to limitations concerning pain management, acupuncture becomes an important treatment5. Acupuncture has been increasingly integrated into Western medicine as a complementary therapy for various conditions, especially pain, and has been shown to have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and neuromodulatory effects6. Several studies have suggested that acupuncture can relieve pregnancy-related pain in the lower back and posterior pelvic girdle by improving blood circulation, relaxing muscles, reducing inflammation, and regulating hormones7–9.