Your Baby Today: Pregnancy: Expert Q&A: OB/GYN: Sciatic Pain

Roy Pitkin, M.D., is a professor of obstetrics and gynecology and is the former chair of the ob/gyn department at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. He is a frequent advisor to national health agencies on women's health issues and has received numerous international honors for this work.

Q: I'm 5 months pregnant and have developed sciatic pain. What's the best way to prevent and relieve the pain?

A: Low back pain is one of the most common of pregnancy complaints and, unfortunately, relief is sometimes difficult. A good preventive measure is to sleep on a firm mattress. Another is taking care to not bend the back (i.e., keeping the back straight and bending the hips and knees when picking something up from the floor) is important. During periods of acute pain and back spasm, heat and rest can give some relief. Pain medication may be necessary but should be taken only on a doctor's advice.