Pain located in the lower part of the back is a common condition affecting women. It can take on different levels of severity, ranging from consistent, mild discomfort to sudden, severe pain. Lower back pain can be acute, lasting only a few days, or chronic, persisting for more than three months. Here are eleven of the most common causes of lower back pain in females.
What Causes Lower Back Pain in Females?
There are many causes of low back pain, some of which are more common or unique to females due to physiological differences, hormonal changes, or certain female-specific conditions.
1. Degenerative disc disease
When the discs in the spine break down due to age or injury, lower back pain, weakness, or numbness can result.
2. Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition that occurs when a bone in the spine slips out of place, compressing the spinal cord or nerves.
3. Osteoporosis
After menopause, women are susceptible to osteoporosis due to decreased estrogen, which protects against bone loss. This decrease causes bones to become brittle, increasing the likelihood of fractures in the spinal bones. It may also lead to microfractures that cause a curvature of the spine known as kyphosis.
4. Muscle or ligament strain
Strains can occur due to improper bending or lifting, a sudden awkward movement or injury, or chronic strain brought about by repetitive movements.
5. Hormonal changes
Variations in hormone levels, particularly during menstruation or pregnancy, can loosen ligaments and lead to lower back pain.
6. Prostaglandins
The body produces prostaglandin chemicals, which cause many symptoms associated with menstrual discomforts, such as uterine cramping and lower back pain.
7. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is when the tissue lining the uterus grows outside the uterine wall, often leading to back pain before and after your period.
8. Uterine fibroids
Fibroids are noncancerous growths in the uterine wall that can cause lower back pain.
9. Rheumatoid arthritis
This type of arthritis affects more women than men and can cause inflammation and pain in the spinal joints.
10. Kidney problems
Both kidney infections and kidney stones can result in lower back pain, often experienced on one side of the back.
11. Pregnancy
Some women wonder, “is lower back pain a sign of pregnancy?” Lower back pain can be a symptom of early pregnancy for some women, but it’s not a definitive or universal sign. Lower back pain is more commonly associated with the later stages of pregnancy as the body adapts to carrying the growing fetus.
Discover The Cause of Your Back Pain
Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing worsening lower back pain or have questions about symptoms. Lower back pain can result from many conditions; some may require immediate treatment to prevent further complications. Some types of back pain may come and go if it’s related to the reproductive tract. But pain that stays the same no matter the time of the month could be due to spinal conditions. These can be addressed by a neurosurgeon or physiatrist.
Don’t live with these causes of lower back pain in females – schedule an appointment today!
