Round Ligament Pain in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of incredible changes, and while some are exciting (hello, baby kicks!), others can be less pleasant. One common but often unexpected discomfort is round ligament pain. If you’re experiencing sharp, pulling sensations in your lower belly or groin, you’re not alone. Let’s dive into what round ligament pain is, why it happens, and what you can do to ease it.

What is Round Ligament Pain?

The round ligaments are a pair of rope-like structures that support your uterus, running from the top of your uterus down to your groin. As your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and thin to accommodate your expanding belly. This rapid stretching can cause discomfort, usually felt as a sharp or jabbing pain on one or both sides of your lower abdomen.

What Does It Feel Like?

Round ligament pain typically presents as:

A sudden, sharp pain or spasm in the lower abdomen or groin.
A pulling or stretching sensation, particularly with movement.
Discomfort when rolling over in bed, standing up quickly, or after exercise.

The pain is usually brief and resolves quickly, though it can be recurrent throughout pregnancy.

When Does It Occur?

Round ligament pain most commonly arises in the second trimester, as the uterus grows more rapidly. However, some women may experience it earlier or later in pregnancy, depending on individual factors like muscle tightness and overall activity levels.

How Can You Relieve Round Ligament Pain?

While round ligament pain is a normal part of pregnancy, there are several strategies you can use to ease the discomfort:

Support your belly – A maternity support belt or tubigrip can help reduce strain on the ligaments.
Heat packs – A warm (not hot) pack applied to the area or gentle massage can provide relief.
Spikey ball and massage to the muscles around this area - think hip flexors, obliques, gluteals
Stretch and strengthen – Gentle prenatal stretching and strengthening exercises can help ease discomfort and improve overall stability. Think mermaid side stretch and kneeling lunge side stretch.
Pregnancy yoga - I love recommending yoga for round ligament pain as it generally focuses on stretching and opening up around the hips.

When to Seek Help

Although round ligament pain is common and generally harmless, there are times when it’s important to check in with your healthcare provider. If you experience severe pain, cramping, fever, chills, or pain that doesn’t go away with rest, it’s best to get it assessed to rule out other potential concerns.

Final Thoughts

Round ligament pain can be an annoying but normal part of pregnancy. By being mindful of your movements, incorporating gentle stretches, and using supportive strategies, you can help minimise discomfort. If you’re unsure about any pain you’re experiencing, don’t hesitate to chat with your doctor or physiotherapist for guidance.

The low-down on Round Ligament Pain