Posture changes during pregnancy - how it affects your body
During pregnancy, your posture undergoes significant changes. These changes can cause tense neck muscles, pregnancy-related headaches, and general discomfort. But with the right pregnancy-safe exercises and improved body awareness, you can reduce these symptoms and support your health throughout your pregnancy.
Read time: 2 m
Verified by Anna Reinhold Landaeus
Licensed Personal Trainer - expertise in training during and after pregnancy.
Why Posture Changes During Pregnancy
As your belly grows during pregnancy, your body’s center of gravity shifts. This often leads to a backwards lean and an increased arch in the lower back (lumbar spine). You may also notice that the area between your shoulder blades becomes more rounded, and your cervical spine develops what is sometimes referred to as a “tech neck”, a forward head posture.
Common Discomforts Caused by Poor Posture in Pregnancy
These posture changes can contribute to a range of symptoms during pregnancy, including:
- Tense neck muscles
- Headaches
- Shoulder and upper back discomfort
- Lower back pain
How to Maintain Good Posture During Pregnancy
To prevent or relieve pregnancy-related discomfort, it’s important to focus on posture correction through exercise and body awareness. Strengthening the following areas can help:
- Lower back muscles around the pelvis and lumbar spine
- Thoracic spine and shoulder stabilisers
- Neck muscles
Body Awareness and Posture in Pregnancy
Improving posture isn’t just about exercise—it’s also about daily body awareness. By consciously adjusting your posture and staying grounded and strong in your movements, you can reduce physical strain and feel more balanced throughout your pregnancy.
Verified by Anna Reinhold Landaeus
Licensed Personal Trainer - expertise in training during and after pregnancy.
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