During the third trimester, the physical strain on a pregnant woman's body intensifies significantly. As the baby grows close to full term, her body undergoes many changes that cause severe back pain and discomfort. From personal experience and what I've learned supporting my partner, understanding the specific causes of her pain can make a big difference. One major factor is the baby pressing down on internal organs, which creates pressure and limits comfortable movement. At the same time, the pelvis loosens preparing for birth, which may cause instability and strain on the lower back and hips. This combination often leads to compression of the sciatic nerve, resulting in sharp or radiating pain in the back and legs. The added weight in areas that weren’t designed to carry it increases the stress on her spine. It’s important to realize she might not openly share how bad the pain really is because she wants to keep going for both her and the family's sake. When she says her back hurts, asking detailed questions about exactly where and how it hurts helps you understand and respond better. Offering to give her a gentle massage using lotion or coconut oil can bring much-needed relief, especially when focused on her back, feet, and calves—common hotspots for tension. Beyond physical relief, this simple act shows empathy and attention, which supports her emotionally. Besides massages, partners can take on household chores like trash disposal, heavy lifting, and cooking more frequently. This helps prevent her from overexerting herself, which can worsen back pain. Encourage her to rest as much as possible and try to create a comfortable environment for sleeping or sitting, using pillows or supportive cushions. Supporting her through this demanding stage requires patience, empathy, and proactive help. Remember, she's carrying an almost full-term baby and still handling many daily responsibilities—your understanding and actions can significantly improve her comfort and emotional well-being as you both prepare for the new arrival.