Causes of Pelvic Pain during Pregnancy

Wednesday, March 08, 2023 01:02 AM - Comment(s) - By Nav Grewal, PT

Let's make your pregnancy smoother.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common condition that can affect many women. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and can be caused by a variety of factors. Understanding the causes of pelvic pain during pregnancy can help you manage your symptoms and ensure a healthy pregnancy. Here are some of the most common causes of pelvic pain during pregnancy:

  1. Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, your body produces a hormone called relaxin, which helps to loosen your ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. This increased laxity can cause instability and pain in the pelvic area.

  2. Pressure on the pelvic floor: As your uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, it can put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. This can lead to pain and discomfort in the pelvic region.

  3. Round ligament pain: The round ligaments are bands of tissue that support your uterus. As your uterus grows, these ligaments stretch and can cause sharp, shooting pains in the lower abdomen and groin area.

  4. Sciatica: This is a type of pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down the back of each leg, becomes compressed or irritated. In pregnancy, the growing uterus can put pressure on the nerve, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the lower back, buttocks, and legs.

  5. Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Pregnant women are more susceptible to UTIs, which can cause pelvic pain and discomfort.

  6. Constipation: Constipation is a common issue during pregnancy, and it can cause pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. When your bowels are full, they can put pressure on the surrounding organs and structures, leading to pain and discomfort.

  7. Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): This is a condition that occurs when the ligaments that connect the two halves of your pubic bone become too relaxed, causing pain in the pubic area and groin.

  8. Ectopic pregnancy: An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants itself outside of the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. This can cause severe pain and discomfort in the pelvic area.

If you're experiencing pelvic pain during pregnancy, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause of your pain and recommend treatments or exercises to help alleviate your symptoms. Pelvic Physiotherapy can help strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic area. 

Overall, with the right care and support, pelvic pain during pregnancy can be managed effectively, allowing you to enjoy your pregnancy as much as possible.

Nav Grewal, PT