Back labor (less commonly called posterior labor ^{[1] [2]}) is a term referring to sensations of pain or discomfort that occur in the lower back, just above the tailbone, to a mother during childbirth. ^[3]

Back labor may be noted when the baby is face up in the birth canal (occiput posterior), and not face down, so that the back of the baby's skull ( occiput) is pushed against the mother's sacrum. However back labor can also occur when the baby is in a different position. ^[3] The discomfort is often noted to be intensely painful, and may not completely abate between contractions. ^[4] Whether back labor will occur cannot be predicted. Reports of how many mothers experience back labor vary, ^[5] though estimates in the range of 30% are common. ^{[6] [7]}

Actions that have been suggested to ameliorate back labor include physical activity, changing positions, ^[8] back rubbing, water massage, application of hot or cold to the lower back, use of a birthing ball ^[9] and medication including an epidural. ^{[3] [10]} Some research has suggested that injecting sterile water into the lower back may provide pain relief, but there is no consensus that it actually helps. ^[11]

See also

• Presentation (obstetrics)

References