Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: Natural ways to Relieve Pain in the Pelvic Area

Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

Pelvic pain (symphysis pubic dysfunction) is a relatively common problem during pregnancy. It is the body preparing itself for childbirth and usually occurs after twenty weeks of gestation.

Relaxin and progesterone, a couple of hormones produced by the body during pregnancy, relaxes the pelvis, loosens ligaments, and increases the size of the pelvic diameters. This natural process makes it easier for your baby to come through the birth canal when the time comes.

Some women produce more of these hormones than others and can feel tremendous pain in the pelvis, hips, and groin. Sometimes the pain can be felt in the buttocks and may even travel down the inner thighs. The pain can be felt equally on both sides or it may be worse on one side. Movement can be greatly impaired, especially when walking, separating your legs, going up and down stairs, or even when moving around in bed. It is also common to feel a clicking or grinding in your pubic area during movement.

Natural Ways to Relieve Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

• Avoid heavy lifting or pushing.

• When climbing up or down stairs, take one step at at time.

• When dressing, sit down while putting your legs through clothes, such as pants and skirts. Once you get the piece of clothing to your knees, you can stand up to finish putting them on. Sitting down is also recommended when putting on shoes and stockings to prevent pelvic pain.

• When getting into a vehicle during pregnancy, sit down sideways and bring both or your legs in at the same time.

• Avoid prolonged activity and rest regularly.

• When sleeping, support your pelvic area by putting a couple of pillows or cushions between your legs.

• Strengthen the muscles in your pelvis to stabilize your bones by doing pelvic exercises such as Kegels and pelvic tilts.

• Wear a pelvic support belt.

• Apply a warm compress to the affected area or try taking a warm bath.

• Acupuncture or massage may also help relieve pelvic pain during pregnancy.

Always keep your healthcare provider informed of any problems. After giving birth, the pain should subside. If you do encounter this problem, it is likely it may occur in future pregnancies.

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