6. Stay active

Regular physical activity can keep your back strong and might relieve back pain during pregnancy. It's important to keep doing the physical activities that you did before pregnancy. These might include walking, running or water exercise. A physical therapist also can show you stretches and exercises that might help. Physical therapy may help if heat, cold, massage and exercise don't ease your back pain.

You can stretch your lower back as well. One way to do this is to rest on your hands and knees with your head in line with your back. Pull in your stomach, rounding your back slightly. Hold for several seconds, then relax your stomach and back — keeping your back as flat as possible. Over time, work up to 10 repetitions. Many pregnant people find prenatal stretching and strength classes such as yoga helpful. Ask your healthcare professional or physical therapist about other stretching exercises too.