The pain can range from a mild ache to a sharp, burning pain. Sometimes it feels like a jolt or electric shock. It may get worse if you cough or sneeze or sit for long periods of time. Usually, sciatica affects only one side of the body.

Some people also have numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness in the leg or foot. One part of the leg may hurt, while another part may feel numb.

Causes of sciatica

Sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve is pinched. The cause is usually a herniated disk in the spine or a bone growth, sometimes called a bone spur, that forms on the bones of the spine. Less commonly, a tumor can put pressure on the nerve. Or a disease such as diabetes can damage the nerve.

Pregnancy also causes a form of spinal compression that can affect the sciatic nerve. When you are pregnant, your body releases a hormone called relaxin. It is supposed to relax your ligaments and prepare your pelvis for birth. However, loose ligaments and a growing uterus can shift your body’s center of gravity and pinch the sciatic nerve, causing shooting pains in your legs. Sciatica symptoms can increase during pregnancy. In fact, lower back pain and sciatica are quite common. Sciatica is common in the third trimester of pregnancy – but it can occur at any stage of pregnancy. As your baby grows, the extra weight puts pressure on unstable joints and muscles. Sometimes the baby’s position can be the cause of sciatic nerve compression.

Treatment of sciatica

• Keep moving – Rest is important, and it’s tempting to curl up when your body hurts. However, gentle exercise is often more helpful in the long run. Sometimes just a walk can help. Even a pregnancy exercise class is a good way to relax your muscles and your mind. However, try not to bend or twist too much. Low-impact activities like swimming can also be helpful.
• Pay attention to the pain – Listen to your body and watch out for any activities that irritate your sciatic nerve. Avoid heavy lifting and take frequent breaks if your job requires you to stand for long periods of time.
• Get a massage – There’s some evidence that prenatal massage can reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and even regulate hormones.
• See a physiotherapist– Find a professional who can evaluate your condition and provide you with stretches and strength-building exercises to alleviate sciatic nerve pain. 
• Sleep on your side – When you lie down, rest on the side of your body that doesn’t hurt. This takes the pressure off the compressed nerve. Use a full body pillow to support your hips and legs. 
• After pregnancy – Maintain these habits if your sciatica persists. For some women, sciatic nerve pain disappears completely after childbirth, while others may develop postpartum sciatica symptoms due to weakened back and abdominal muscles. Continue to strengthen your muscles through gentle physical activities and give your body time to recover. If your pain persists or increases during or after pregnancy, see your doctor.