Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

    Relieve Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

    Nausea, vomiting or even back pain: pregnant women are subject to many ailments during pregnancy, to which pelvic pain is added. What to do when they appear? How can they be relieved? Answer, here!

    Pelvic pain: what is it?

    Pelvic pain can be quite recurrent and persistent during pregnancy. Pelvic pain is when the pregnant woman feels pain in the pelvic area, that is, in the lower part of the belly containing the bladder, rectum, cervix, uterus and vagina. Also known as the small pelvis, it corresponds to the bony structure of the lower abdomen. The pelvis is connected to the hips which allow the connection with the thighs. Sometimes, pelvic pain causes lower back pain since it radiates to the lower back. During pregnancy, pelvic pain can be sharp, similar to cramps during menstruation or be dull and constant.

    What causes pelvic pain during pregnancy? When can it occur?

    Several factors can explain the appearance of pelvic pain during pregnancy. Throughout pregnancy, hormonal changes are involved, particularly relaxin. This hormone causes the pelvic ligaments and bones to relax in preparation for childbirth . The body gradually prepares to welcome the baby and creates tension in the pelvic ligaments, which can explain the appearance of pelvic pain in the mother-to-be: this is what is called “ligament pain”. At the end of pregnancy, it is the pressure of the baby on the pelvis that most often explains pelvic pain. In fact, the fetus presses on the pelvis, hips and bladder of its mother as birth approaches.

    These pains can also be caused by:

• A miscarriage that has occurred or is occurring.
• An ectopic pregnancy (EP or ectopic pregnancy) : this is the most common serious cause. The fertilized egg lodges in one of the two fallopian tubes instead of attaching itself to the uterus, for example. Go straight to your doctor if you have symptoms (abdominal pain in the lower abdomen and brown and blackish bleeding) in order to get a medical evaluation and medical intervention if an EP is detected.
• Urinary tract infection : Urinary tract disorders (cystitis, pyelonephritis) are quite common during pregnancy and often cause pelvic pain. Do not hesitate to consult your healthcare professional in case of fever and burning sensation when you urinate.
• Digestive system disorders : appendicitis, irritable bowel syndrome, kidney stones… all of these can contribute to pain in pregnant women.
• Braxton-Hicks contractions : at the end of pregnancy, these irregular contractions cause quite uncomfortable pulling in the pelvic region for the pregnant woman.
• Adnexal torsion : This is the twisting of the ovary around the ligaments and tissues that support it. Torsion is not directly related to pregnancy but it is quite common at this time since the ovaries increase in volume. The risks of torsion are then higher than usual.

    Be careful, some factors increase the risk of developing obstetric disorders responsible for pelvic pain. This is particularly the case for an age over 35, an abnormality of the uterus such as fibroids, etc.

    How to relieve pelvic pain when pregnant? Are there any specific exercises?

    Pelvic pain during pregnancy can be relieved with a few everyday tips. Here are some examples that may help you feel better:

• Develop good postural habits : You must stand up straight and adopt good posture with your back straight, even when you bend over. This also helps prevent back pain.
• Use a pregnancy belt : it helps maintain the pelvis and supports the weight of the belly.
• Use a pregnancy ball : it allows you to adopt a good posture and relieves pain thanks to light circular movements. You are no longer immobile.
• Physical exercise : walking and gentle physical activities such as stretching (glutes, adductors, back) are recommended to prevent and relieve pelvic pain. Be careful though because taking long walks in case of significant pelvic pain may not be comfortable! Yoga is also effective, don't hesitate to adopt the butterfly, cat or half-bridge posture!
• Consult an osteopath or physiotherapist : Osteopathy and physiotherapy sessions can provide relief. Acupuncture can also be helpful.

    Avoid carrying heavy loads or crossing your legs when sitting. This can actually make pelvic pain worse!

    When should you be concerned about pelvic pain during pregnancy?

    There are several reasons why you may need to see a healthcare professional for pelvic pain. First of all, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor or midwife as soon as you experience sudden, acute pain. It is important to make sure that there is nothing serious.

    Also, seek medical attention as soon as possible at the emergency room or with your doctor or midwife if pelvic pain is accompanied by one or more of these symptoms:

• fainting spells
• dizziness
• increased heart rate
• fever
• chills
• vaginal discharge containing pus
• vaginal bleeding
• pain worsened during movement.

    During your appointment with the doctor or midwife, be sure to discuss all your pain, its location and its onset. The information collected will allow them to make a diagnosis and offer you an appropriate solution such as monitoring, an ultrasound scan or even treatment for example.

    Although unpleasant, pelvic pain is common during pregnancy. Stay vigilant and consult your healthcare professional directly in case of pelvic pain and symptoms that are too intense!