Pregnancy, bump & baby - Sore tummy
Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it comes with its fair share of discomforts—one of the most common being round ligament pain. If you’ve experienced a sudden, sharp pain in your lower belly or groin, especially when moving quickly, you’re not alone. This type of pain is a normal part of pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. Understanding what causes round ligament pain, its symptoms, and how to relieve it can help you stay as comfortable as possible as your body changes.
Why Do Women Get Round Ligament Pain?
The round ligaments are a pair of rope-like structures that connect the uterus to the pelvis, helping to support your growing bump. During pregnancy, as your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and thicken to accommodate the expanding uterus. For some women this growing of the ligaments can be painful but it is a normal growing pain of pregnancy. This rapid stretching can cause a sharp, stabbing, or pulling pain, often triggered by sudden movements. As your pregnancy progresses and your bump gets bigger, round ligament pain may become more noticeable, especially in the second and third trimesters. While this pain is generally harmless, it can be uncomfortable and frustrating for many pregnant women.
Symptoms of Round Ligament Pain
Round ligament pain is often described as:
● Sharp or stabbing pains in the lower belly or groin area
● A pulling or stretching sensation that worsens with movement
● Pain that comes on suddenly, especially when rolling over in bed, standing up quickly, coughing, or laughing
● Pain that lasts only a few seconds to a couple of minutes, rather than a constant ache
If your pain is severe, lasts for long periods, or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, chills, or cramping, it’s always best to check in with your healthcare provider to rule out other concerns.
How to Relieve Round Ligament Pain
While round ligament pain is a natural part of pregnancy, there are several ways to ease discomfort:
1. Move Gently
Avoid sudden movements that trigger pain. When rolling over in bed, do so slowly and support your bump with a pillow.
2. Stretch Regularly
Gentle pregnancy stretches, particularly hip and pelvic stretches, can help reduce tension in the ligaments.
3. Use a Pregnancy Support Belt
A pregnancy belt can take some strain off your ligaments and provide extra stability.
4. Apply Heat
A warm compress or heat pack (not too hot!) can help soothe aching ligaments.
5. Modify Your Activities
If certain movements trigger pain, try adjusting how you move. For example, when standing up, use your hands to push up from a seated position rather than relying on your core muscles.
6. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make muscle and ligament pain feel worse, so ensure you’re drinking plenty of water.
7. Try Gentle Exercise
Walking, prenatal yoga, and swimming can help keep your muscles strong and flexible, reducing ligament strain.
8. Rock your pelvis side to side before getting up
This helps increase blood flow, lymphatic drainage and helps avoid the sharp pain that the round ligaments can cause.
How Osteopathic Treatment Can Help Round ligament pain
Osteopathy offers a gentle, hands-on approach to managing round ligament pain and other pregnancy discomforts. An osteopath trained in pregnancy care can:
● Release tension in the surrounding muscles and ligaments
● Improve pelvic alignment to reduce strain on the round ligaments
● Enhance circulation to support healing and relieve pain
● Teach you gentle exercises and movements to prevent pain flare-ups
Osteopathic treatment is completely safe for all stages of pregnancy and can be a great way to keep your body feeling balanced and comfortable as your baby grows.
When to Seek Help
While round ligament pain is common and usually not a cause for concern, if your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by unusual symptoms, always speak with your midwife or doctor.
Sarah Boughtwood
Pregnancy & Postpartum Osteopath
@sarahboughtwoodosteopath
www.sarahboughtwoodosteopath.co.nz