Are you experiencing pelvic pain during your pregnancy? If so, you’re not alone. Many pregnant women experience some degree of pelvic pain at some point during their pregnancies. While there are a number of possible causes for pelvic pain, fortunately, there are also a number of ways to relieve it. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common methods for relieving pelvic pain during pregnancy. We hope that this information helps you find relief from your symptoms and makes carrying your baby throughout your pregnancy easier!
Many pregnant women experience pelvic pain at some point during their pregnancy.
This pain can be worrying and uncomfortable, and it is often difficult to know what is causing it.
Today we’re going to dive into pelvic pain, what causes it and how you can help it!
Before we get started, hi — I’m Hilary — The Pregnancy Nurse 👩⚕️. I have been a nurse since 1997 and I have 20 years of OB nursing experience, I am also the curly head behind Pulling Curls and The Online Prenatal Class for Couples. 🩺 I have helped thousands of women with pregnancy pelvic pain as well as having my own pubis symphysis separation with my last baby. So, I’m a pretty great expert in this topic.
I’d love to join you during your pregnancy, right where you’re at:
What Causes Pregnancy Pelvic Pain?
There are a number of possible causes for pelvic pain during pregnancy. Some of the most common causes include:
• Muscle strain or spasms – This is often the result of carrying extra weight or from the normal changes your body goes through during pregnancy.
• Relaxing in the symphysis pubis – You body helps this joint relax so the baby has an easier time to progress through the birth canal. This, however, also makes that joint unstable, which can put extra pressure on the muscles and ligaments in that area. Learn more about symphysis pubis separation here.
• Posture changes – As your baby grows, it can put a lot of pressure on your lower back and pelvis, which can lead to pain.
• Round ligament pain – This is a sharp, shooting pain that often happens when you change positions or move too quickly. It is caused by the ligaments that support your uterus stretching as your baby grows.
• Baby descending into the birth canal – As the baby lowers into your birth canal it puts more pressure on that area, which can also cause a back-up of blood flow to this area (sometimes even small amounts of swelling).
• UTI’s – UTI’s can cause this type of pain, if it’s something you are experiencing, especially with needing to urinate frequently, fever, or burning when you pee it may be a UTI. If you think it could be a UTI a simple urine test can rule it out, call your provider! Learn more about bladder infections here.
I do have a whole post on HIP pain during pregnancy that might be helpful as well.
How can I relieve pelvic pain during pregnancy?
There are a number of easy things you can do to help relieve pelvic pain during pregnancy. Some of the most effective methods include:
• Taking breaks often – If you’re on your feet a lot, make sure to take breaks often to rest and put your feet up.
• Wearing comfortable shoes – Avoid high heels or other shoes that are uncomfortable. Instead, opt for flats or other shoes that provide support.
• Exercising – Exercise & stretching can help strengthen the muscles that support your back and pelvis, which can help relieve pain. Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.
• Practicing good posture – Slouching can make pelvic pain worse, so be sure to stand up straight and sit with good posture.
• Applying heat or ice – Applying heat or ice to the area can help relieve pain and inflammation.
• Improving body mechanics – Moving one leg while keeping the other stable (like, when you put on pants) can be really problematic. Trying to do this as little as possible can help (like pulling both legs into a car together, rather than pulling in one at a time.
If you love “at home remedies” like this, be sure to check out this — it has SO much good info you can implement at home!
Are there any risks associated with using these methods for relief?
There are a few risks associated with using these methods for relief, but they are usually minor. For example, using ice can cause skin irritation, and excessive exercise can lead to muscle strain. However, these risks (especially when used in moderation) are usually outweighed by the benefits of relieving pelvic pain. If you experience any adverse effects from using these methods, be sure to talk to your doctor.
What should you do if the pelvic pain does not improve after using these methods?
Heads up! 👀 There may be affiliate links in here – I might earn a smidge with your click. No cost to you, just good vibes! Check my boring stuff for deets.
If the pelvic pain does not improve after using these methods, be sure to talk to your doctor. There may be other causes of the pain that need to be addressed, or you may need a different form of treatment.
I would recommend those “home” methods first, but doctors can refer you to physical therapy to work to build strength where you can, and also use good body mechanics to irritate it less.
I had a great physical therapist on my podcast that shared what she can do to help:
Some doctors will also recommend a hip belt like this. It can help “glue” those hips together and you’ll feel less separation when you are doing your daily tasks.
You could also consider seeing a chiropractor for this. I have heard a lot of people having luck with it, and many insurance plans will cover them. I also had a chiropractor on my podcast with lots of tips and how she can help:
When should I see a doctor about pelvic pain?
In most cases, pelvic pain is normal and can be relieved with home treatment. However, there are a few instances when you should see a doctor about your symptoms. For example, you should see a doctor if:
• The pain is severe
• The pain is not relieved with home treatment
• You experience other symptoms, such as fever or bleeding
If you are experiencing hip pain, I would bring it up to your doctor at your next appointment. While it may just be a normal part of pregnancy they will be able to help you determine the cause of your pain and recommend the best course of treatment.
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common experience for many women. While it can be concerning, it is generally not something to worry about. The body is preparing for childbirth and the pain will likely go away after delivery. If you have any concerns about your pelvic pain, please visit your health care provider immediately. For more helpful tips on pregnancy, check out our Online Prenatal Class for Couples.
It is….
- Quick — can be done in just 3 hours from your couch (a huge benefit for hip pain sufferers).
- For BOTH of you — a class made to get your partner involved in this!
- Taught by an experienced RN who knows what you need to know!
Join it today, get 10% off with coupon code PREGNURSE.
Want to do a vibe check before diving into the whole thing with me? — check out my free labor pro tips. It’s your first step toward getting in the driver’s seat of your birth.
- About the Author
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A nurse since 1997, she has worked in various fields including pediatrics, geriatrics & hospice. She has 20 years of labor and delivery experience in the San Jose, CA and Phoenix, AZ areas.
As an evidence-based prenatal educator Hilary has delivered thousands of babies and has educated hundreds of thousands of parents from a diverse patient population to help them have a confident birth.
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