Kate Ferdinand opens up about back pain in pregnancy: 'It’s a struggle to even stand'

Kate Ferdinand has opened up about pain she has been experiencing during pregnancy.

The former TOWIE star, 29, who is expecting her first child – a boy – with husband Rio Ferdinand, has been keeping her Instagram followers updated on her pregnancy experiences.

Most recently she shared a photo showing her sat on her bedroom floor wearing comfy leggings, a vest top and slippers.

In the caption, Ferdinand explained how she wasn’t feeling comfortable in any other outfits and went on to say that she was “hugely struggling” with her lower back and groin.

“I’ve always had back problems but this is really taking its toll,” she wrote. “I don’t like to moan too much on here but the reality is I am struggling.”

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Going on to explain that some days she finds the pain manageable, Ferdinand – who is also stepmother to Lorenz, 14, Tate, 12, and Tia, nine – shared that on other days “it’s a struggle to even stand up”.

“Getting my head around losing the ability to move freely is difficult at times, especially with three kids and dogs flying around the house like lunatics,” she added.

Ferdinand added that it is important to not only share the good moments on social media, but also the times when you might be struggling, as it could help others going through something similar.

“The reality is… we always share our best moments on social media, but it's important to share the not so great ones too so we can learn from one another,” she wrote.

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Backache or back pain is very common during pregnancy, particularly in the early stages, according to the NHS.

“During pregnancy, the ligaments in your body naturally become softer and stretch to prepare you for labour,” the site explains. “This can put a strain on the joints of your lower back and pelvis, which can cause back pain.”

For pregnant women suffering from lower back pain the NHS has some tips which could help including:

• bending your knees and keep your back straight when you lift or pick something up from the floor

• avoiding lifting heavy objects

• wearing flat shoes to evenly distribute your weight

• keeping your back straight and well supported when sitting at work and at home

• a massage or warm bath

• using a mattress that supports you properly

If your backache is very painful, the NHS suggests talking to your GP or midwife who may be able to refer you to an obstetric physiotherapist.

There are certain other instances where you should also contact your GP or midwife if you have back pain – including if you are in your second or third trimester, as this could be a sign of early labour.

You should also seek advice if you also have a fever, bleeding from your vagina or pain when you pee, or if you lose feeling in one or both of your legs, your bum or your genitals.

Having pain in one or more of your sides (under your ribs), alongside back pain is also another instance where you should seek medical advice.

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Ferdinand has previously shared that keeping fit while pregnant has helped her feel more like herself.

She said: “I know I say this all the time but it really is quite mental for me. I’ve found especially whilst being pregnant the gym helps me to feel like ‘me’ as much as I can.

“Being pregnant for the first time there is a lot of ‘unknowns’ so it’s nice to have some form of consistency where possible.

“Still getting through my workouts approx. Three times per week and a lot less intense. I’ve been really listening to my body and if I feel like I need to rest and take it easy I do.”

Pre-pregnancy, Ferdinand spoke about her 15-year battle with body dysmorphia and severe anxiety.

Speaking to Fabulous magazine, Ferdinand explained that she had experienced low self-esteem since her teens.

“I’ve always thought I looked bad and it’s only in the last two years I have been able to rethink what’s important and what isn’t,” she said.

“I’ve learned to accept myself, but it’s been a hell of a journey. And I’m still on it. I still have bad days, but I never thought I would get to this point.”

Watch: Kate Ferdinand's baby bump on show as she works up a sweat