Irritation or compression in the sciatic nerve can result in pain. And unfortunately, lots of women have sciatic pain during pregnancy.

You see, the sciatic nerve is comprised of five nerve roots. It passes through the lower limbs and buttocks and is the longest single nerve of the body. Plus there are several different types of sciatic pain including: Sciatica from S1 nerve root (the L5-S1 level), Sciatica that results due to L4 nerve root (mostly L3-L4 levels), Sciatica arising from L5 nerve root (generally L4-L5 levels), pressure on the sciatic nerve from the piriformis muscle and pressure on the sacral nerve roots from sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

And during pregnancy there might be pressure on the sciatic nerve which may lead to pain. Here are major points to consider about sciatica during pregnancy:

1) Some of the symptoms of sciatic pain during pregnancy include numbness, pain and burning sensation in the lower part of the body such as leg, foot and lower back.

2) Sciatica and pregnancy are terminologies that are entwined with each other; many women experience sciatic pain during the pregnancy period.

3) There are different reasons for pain like this. Often the spinal disc gets damaged leading to inflammation of the tissue of the spinal nerve. This increases pressure on the one of the five roots of the spinal nerve which results in pain.

4) It's important to understand that the symptoms of sciatica and pregnancy pain should be clearly distinguished. In short, pregnancy pain should not be mistaken for sciatic pain.

5) Also improper body posture might also lead to the bulging of the spinal disc. During pregnancy it is imperative to keep a correct body posture- while walking, while standing, while sleeping; in fact whatever activity you do, make sure that you are maintaining a proper body posture.

Sciatica Treatment During Pregnancy

It almost goes without saying that during pregnancy you need to be extra careful. In short with possible sciatica, do not take any pain lightly. Understanding sciatica and pregnancy pain is vital. Never get confused about these two conditions. If there is any confusion there, consult your doctor immediately.

Negligence can aggravate the situation. And note that there are several exercises that can help you get relief from pain.

But wait! Before starting any exercise regime, seek the help of an expert by consulting with your doctor. Several do's and don'ts are there for pregnant women, so you'll want to be careful because you are also responsible for the well-being of your child.

For example, under the direction of your doctor you may opt for stretching and strengthening exercises to tone your body muscles; strong muscles will ensure that the body becomes capable of resisting pressure. Warm up your body before starting any exercise and after finishing cool down; this is must because warming up provides flexibility to the muscles and cooling down restore the muscles to the normal position.

Which exercise regime to follow will depend on your pregnancy trimester and of course your doctor's advice. During the first three months of pregnancy you may opt for stretching and aerobic exercises but during the last three months you have to do away with certain exercises, for instance.

You may also decide upon body massage if it relieves the pain. Body massage may help in reducing the tension of the muscles. Massage, too, provides flexibility to the muscles.

Some types of medications are available to help with sciatica treatment in the market place to treat the pain for this condition. For example, anti inflammatory medicine, steroid injections and other pain relieving medicines like acetaminophen can be administered to the patient. So learn more on this, talk to your family doctor and seek help for your health - and that of baby!

Don't overlook good help during tough times! Here are some tips to help you get the help you need while you're pregnant:

1) Ask local high schools and colleges about placing Help Wanted ads in the school newsletters and on the announcement / bulletin boards. Then ask them what works best and / or to read you a couple ads on there for home helpers. The school admin may be able to suggest rates and attractive headlines that'll catch students' eyes so they'll apply for work.

2) Ask your doctor for pain treatment options. Ask about home remedies, over the counter medications and other helpful ideas.

3) If you already have other children, seek help from a babysitter or daycare service to help ease your burdens and activity- and stress-levels at least for awhile. Or trade services with a friends or neighbor. Maybe your spouse can mow your neighbor's lawn in exchange for some babysitting time or even housecleaning time. Get hubby's involved!