if am having problem with my lumbar spine can i still get pregnant

Hi Anonymous and thanks for your question.

Whether or not you have lumbar spine problems, you can get pregnant if you don't have any fertility issues that would prevent conception. Getting pregnant, however, may increase any pain and discomfort that you already have from your lumbar spine problems.

According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA) , some 50-70% of all pregnant women report having back pain. This can occur during any point of the pregnancy, but it most commonly occurs later in the pregnancy as the weight of the baby increases. 

The APA recommends the following steps to reduce back pain during pregnancy:

• Use exercises approved by your health care provider that support and help strengthen the back and abdomen
• Squat to pick up something versus bending over
• Avoid high heels and other shoes that do not provide adequate support
• Avoid sleeping on your back
• Wear a support belt under your lower abdomen
• Make sure your back is aligned using a chiropractor
• Get plenty of rest. Elevating your feet is also good for your back

The APA further advises a number of things that can be done to treat back pain during pregnancy.

• Ice or heat
• Braces or support devices
• Sleep on your left side and use a support pillow under your knees
• Medications used to treat inflammation
• Use a licensed health care professional such as a chiropractor or massage therapist

Of course you should also discuss your situation with your gynecologist who should be able to help you further in assessing your situation and how pregnancy would impact your condition.

Hope that helps,

Pat