Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common. After all, your uterus is growing and causing other organs to make room. Also, your increasing hormone levels and strained muscles contribute to pelvic pain. However, do consult with your doctor to rule out a serious condition called Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD).
Common Causes of Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
- The growth of the uterus puts pressure on the pelvic region.
- Pressure on your pelvic region due to the baby’s increasing weight.
- The hormone relaxin can cause loosening of the ligaments. The main job of relaxin is to loosen your joints and ligaments and to prepare you for delivery. However, this loosening can also cause pelvic pain.
- Inflammation is caused by movements of the joints, also known as SPD. When the ligaments become too stretchy and relaxed it can make the pelvic joint unstable.
How to Find Relief
Pelvic pain is common during pregnancy and does not need medical intervention usually. However, if you have severe pain then it is advisable to visit your doctor. Here are some ways to find relief from pelvic pain on your own:
- Sit down and elevate your feet
- Avoid moving around when you feel pain
- Take rest as much as possible
- Put an ice pack on the painful area
- Take a sitz bath or bath in lukewarm water
- Do pelvic exercises such as happy baby pose, reclined butterfly, or extended child’s pose
- You can also try water aerobics. Aqua aerobics and swimming are considered good exercises for expecting mothers to relieve pain
- Get a massage
- Use a pelvic support belt
When to See the Doctor
Usually, pelvic pain goes away on its own. However, certain symptoms demand medical attention. These are:
- Fever or chills
- Along with pain, if you have a burning sensation while urinating
- Consistent pain
- Vaginal discharge
- Nausea and dizziness
- Bleeding in the vaginal area
While most women experience pelvic pain during pregnancy, one in every 300 pregnant women is diagnosed with SPD. Both regular pelvic pain and SPD go away after delivery. However, if you experience any severe symptoms then visit your doctor immediately.
