Pregnancy is a remarkable journey full of anticipation and joy, but it often brings unique challenges. Among them, pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common companion of many expectant mothers. As Your body is going through incredible things Transformations to promote new life, pelvic discomfort can cast a shadow over this magical time. Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be common, but it’s nothing to worry about. There are steps you can take to make managing PGP as convenient as possible.
Pain in the pelvic area is called pelvic girdle pain (PGP). Pelvic girdle pain can be felt in various parts of the body: the pubic symphysis, the lower back, the pelvic floor, the inner thighs, the hips, the groin, and the buttocks. Pain is experienced differently from person to person. Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be a sharp pain or a dull ache.1
PGP is common during pregnancy and affects one in five pregnant women. Abdominal pain during pregnancy can be mild to severe.1
Pelvic pain can occur as early as the first trimester, but typically occurs in the second and third trimesters.2
Pelvic pain can occur with certain activities, such as:2
- Turning over in bed
- Going up and down stairs
- wear trousers
- Getting in and out of the car
- Sitting or standing for long periods of time
Various factors cause pelvic pain during pregnancy, including:
- Hormones: From the 10th week of pregnancy, the body increases the production of a hormone called relaxin. This hormone relaxes the ligaments in the body to accommodate a growing baby and prepare it for delivery. Although these are necessary functions, they also impact the ligaments in the pelvis. The ligaments are no longer as stable as they were before pregnancy, causing the pelvic bones to move more freely.4
- Growing baby: As your baby grows, he or she puts more pressure on the pelvis, stomach, and back, causing discomfort and pain.4
- Previous injuries: Previous back injuries or back problems can lead to pelvic pain during pregnancy.1
Pelvic girdle pain was previously referred to as symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). SPD during pregnancy involves dysfunction of the pubic symphysis joint. This joint connects the two bones at the front of the pelvis.6
SPD occurs when the ligaments allow too much separation of the bones at the front of the pelvis. This leads to pain and discomfort in the hips, groin, glutes, and sometimes above the pubic area. You may feel like your pelvis is cracking or you may experience stabbing pain in your groin. Fortunately, this is usually resolved after birth.6
Abdominal pain can occur to anyone during pregnancy. However, some may be more prone to pain. Some factors may increase your risk of pelvic pain during pregnancy:3
- Pelvic pain before pregnancy
- Pelvic pain in previous pregnancies
- Previous back pain or injury
- A physically demanding job
- To be overweight
Now for the good stuff. What can you do to relieve pelvic pain during pregnancy? Here are seven tips:
If approved by your provider, take one over-the-counter pain relievers that are safe for pregnancy, such as Tylenol, can help with mild pain. Be sure to avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as they may not be safe for pregnancy.3
A pelvic support garment or belt can help stabilize the pelvis and relieve pain. There are specific pelvic support belts for pregnancy that many find helpful in relieving pressure on the pelvis.4
If you suffer from pelvic pain, it is important to rest. Sitting or lying down and giving your body a break can help relieve pain. Listen to your body and give yourself more frequent breaks if necessary.7
Comfortable wearing, supportive shoes will help support the pelvis. Additionally, walking shorter distances with shorter steps prevents the pubic symphysis joint from becoming too loose, keeping pain to a minimum.7
Swimming can be soothing and soothing to relieve pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy. The buoyancy of the water distributes the weight evenly, helping to take extra pressure off your growing miracle.4
If possible, keep your legs straight. If certain activities, such as rolling over in bed or getting in and out of a car, cause pain, straightening your legs may help. Place a Pillow between your legs and roll over in one fluid motion as you turn over in bed. This helps stabilize the pelvic bones and prevents overstretching of the pubic symphysis joint.7
There’s no better time to treat yourself massage. Tense or stiff muscles can be the cause of pelvic pain. A massage therapist can target specific areas to relieve pain. If you are pregnant, it is important to find a massage therapist who specializes in prenatal massage. Specific extendsOther options, such as side sharing, can be helpful, but you should speak to your provider beforehand to see if this would be beneficial to you.8th
Certain activities can trigger pelvic pain. It is important to identify these activities to prevent discomfort. Here are some things to avoid:
- Overexertion6
- Stand on one leg (put on while sitting if possible)7
- High heels6
- Overcome the pain7
- Heavy lifting and pushing activities such as vacuuming1
If you are experiencing pelvic pain during your pregnancy, know that you are not alone and that there are options. Diagnosis from your doctor can be incredibly helpful in treating pelvic pain. Your doctor may recommend exercises, limit certain activities, or refer you to a specialist such as a physical therapist.
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