Pregnancy week by week

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Low back stretches

Pregnancy stretches can help you feel your best, especially as your pregnancy progresses.

Exercises for the back, such as this low back stretch, can help ease backaches.

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. Don't let your back sag. Gradually work up to 10 repetitions.

1. Exercises during your pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq119.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120918T1042484702. Accessed Sept. 19, 2012.
2. Dudley TJ (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 25, 2012.
3. Frequently asked questions. Pregnancy FAQ115. Easing back pain during pregnancy. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/~/media/For%20Patients/faq115.pdf?dmc=1&ts=20120918T1137545034. Accessed Sept. 18, 2012.
4. Friend JL (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Sept. 25, 2012.
5. Pregnancy: Staying safe and healthy. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. http://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/you-are-pregnant/staying-healthy-safe.cfm. Accessed Sept. 25, 2012.
6. Nordahl K, et al. Fit to Deliver. Point Roberts, Wash.: Hartley & Marks Publishers Inc., 2005:1.