Pregnancy brings joy and excitement, but it can also come with unexpected discomfort. One common issue many expectant mums face is pelvic pain during pregnancy, which can range from mild aches to more intense pressure or sharp pains. While it’s often a normal part of your body adjusting, it can affect your daily routine and overall comfort. Understanding why pelvic pain happens and what you can do to ease it is key to staying as mobile and comfortable as possible. Written by Fit 4 Two, fitness specialists.
Hands up those of you who have experienced some form of back pain during your lives (regardless of whether it’s pre– or postnatally related?)… Yup, probably about 80% of individuals will experience some form of back pain in their lives and it’s actually one of the leading causes of time taken off work.
As my prenatal weeks start edging closer towards D-day, (scary thought!) this body continues to surprise me with a new sensation every morning when getting out of bed. We chatted in the last piece about DRA (or “coning” of the abdominal tissue structures) and today we delve into the joys of back pain.
This soon to be earth-side mini human of mine is becoming very adept with it’s sniper skills and catching me off guard in the most innocuous of positions, rendering me practically useless for a second or two, needing to grab on to the closest object to prevent the legs from buckling under! Ah Motherhood, you’re just beginning!
Now, obviously there are various aetiologies for back pain (and also degrees of it) – nonetheless it can have a significant impact on functionality and overall wellbeing as a result. Who doesn’t get grumpy when they have an “eina” to deal with – particularly one that is most likely unrelenting and present in every facet of your day, if bad enough?
With the ever changing physiological aspects of a woman’s anatomy during pregnancy and it’s latent effect post-partum too, back pain can be attributed to a whole host of things: increasing lordotic curve with the expanding belly; higher levels of the hormone “relaxin” that is produced to help with the birthing process, which could have a knock on effect if you are already susceptible to hypermobility issues; compensatory muscles spasm; change in gait pattern with the various adaptations taking place… gosh mama – you’ve got a LOT going on!
Personally, I started early on in life with biomechanically related back problems and probably got into the rehabilitative world as a result of it all. I found it absolutely fascinating to experience just how effective movement therapy can be for these sorts of ailments.
This fact couldn’t be more pertinent than during this pregnancy. It may be an effort to actually get up and do the work, but I always feel so much better once my body starts to get the support and stability it is craving from some specified exercise and movement therapy. Targeting the adaptable tissues that we can actually have an impact on to assist in this ever-changing physiological journey.
I’m talking particularly here today about “Posterior Pelvic Pain” which is really an umbrella term for anything related to the sacroiliac joint (SIJ) and lower lumbo-pelvic region.
It can present in a manner of fashions – uni or bilateral discomfort in the small of your back; radiating discomfort into the buttocks, groin and posterior lateral aspect of the thigh, all of which can sometimes be attributed to a “disordered motion of the sacroiliac joint from either hyper or hypomobility, resulting in pain and discomfort”. This is considered the definition of SIJ dysfunction.
So what to do about it mama?
Get in touch with your Fit4Two crew of course! Our highly skilled healthcare professionals will be able to asses your specific needs and determine what particular type of therapeutic intervention you may require. Remember that every body is different and whilst you may be presenting with similar symptoms to someone else you know, the interventions necessary are very dependant on your body. We’ll always advocate for movement therapy and have a whole network of Women’s Health practitioners to collaborate with should it be necessary to refer out. So don’t suffer in silence mama’s – motherhood is hard enough without having to put up with a (literal) pain in the backside! Remember that we can’t pour from empty cups, so make sure to take care of yourselves too.
Yours in health & wellness,
Bailey
BabyYumYum Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Is pelvic pain normal during pregnancy?
Yes, pelvic pain is common, especially in the second and third trimesters, as your body adapts to pregnancy. It’s often caused by the relaxation of ligaments, postural changes, and pressure from your growing baby.
What does pelvic pain feel like in pregnancy?
Pelvic pain may feel like a dull ache, sharp stabbing pain, or pressure in the pelvic region. It can be constant or intermittent and might worsen when walking, climbing stairs, turning in bed, or standing for long periods.
What causes pelvic pain during pregnancy?
Some common causes include:
- Pelvic girdle pain (PGP)
- Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD)
- Round ligament pain
- Increased weight and hormonal changes
These conditions affect the joints and ligaments in the pelvic area, making movement uncomfortable.
When should I be concerned about pelvic pain?
Seek medical advice if the pain is:
- Severe or sudden
- Accompanied by bleeding, fever or unusual discharge
- Persistent despite rest or worsens significantly
These may indicate a more serious issue, such as preterm labour or infection.
How can I relieve pelvic pain safely during pregnancy?
You can try the following:
- Pelvic support belts
- Gentle pregnancy-safe exercises or physiotherapy
- Warm baths or using a heat pack
- Avoiding heavy lifting or standing for too long
- Sleeping with a pillow between your knees
Can pelvic pain affect labour or delivery?
Not usually. While pelvic pain can be uncomfortable, it does not typically interfere with labour. However, it’s important to discuss it with your midwife or obstetrician, as adjustments during delivery (like birthing positions) may help reduce discomfort.
Will pelvic pain continue after birth?
For many women, pelvic pain improves after delivery, but for some, symptoms may linger postpartum. In such cases, postnatal physiotherapy can be beneficial to strengthen muscles and aid recovery.
Are pelvic pain and contractions the same thing?
No. Pelvic pain is usually musculoskeletal, while contractions involve uterine tightening. Contractions are often rhythmic and increase in intensity, whereas pelvic pain tends to vary with movement or position.
Can exercise worsen pelvic pain?
Some types of exercise may aggravate pelvic pain, especially high-impact or weight-bearing activities. However, low-impact exercises such as swimming, prenatal yoga, or pelvic floor strengthening can help alleviate discomfort if done correctly.
Who can help me manage pelvic pain during pregnancy?
A physiotherapist who specialises in pregnancy care, your midwife, or obstetrician can offer guidance. Don’t hesitate to ask for help—managing pelvic pain early can improve your comfort and mobility during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about pain during pregnancy.
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