Round Ligament Pain

One of the most common pains during pregnancy is round ligament pain – and this is usually most common during the second trimester. Round ligament pain is considered a normal part of pregnancy as your body goes through many different changes and adjustments to your growing baby. This is usually experienced as a sharp pain in the stomach, hip and genital area and can be extremely painful and uncomfortable.

What Causes Round Ligament Pain?

The round ligament supports the uterus and stretches during pregnancy. It connects the front portion of the uterus to the groin. These ligaments contract and relax like muscles, but much more slowly. Any movement (including going from a sitting position to standing position quickly, laughing, or coughing) that stretches these ligaments, by making the ligaments contract quickly, can cause a woman to experience pain. Round ligament pain should only last for a few seconds.

What Causes Round Ligament Pain?

The round ligament supports the uterus and stretches during pregnancy. It connects the front portion of the uterus to the groin. These ligaments contract and relax like muscles, but much more slowly. Any movement (including going from a sitting position to standing position quickly, laughing, or coughing) that stretches these ligaments, by making the ligaments contract quickly, can cause a woman to experience pain. Round ligament pain should only last for a few seconds.

Can I Reduce The Effects Of It?

If you’ve been reassured by your practitioner that what you’re feeling is round ligament pain, sit down and try to relax when the pain strikes. Resting comfortably should alleviate your symptoms You can also try flexing your knees toward your abdomen to get some relief or lying on your side with a pillow under your belly for support and another one between your legs. A warm bath may help, too. If you find that you’re more prone to round ligament pain when you’re particularly active, cut back to see if that helps. Then, if you feel fine, you can gradually increase your activity until you find the level of exertion that’s comfortable for you

When Should I Call My Doctor?

If the pain persists after resting, or it is accompanied by severe pain, you would want to notify your health care provider. If the pain lasts for more than a few seconds you should contact your health care provider immediately. You would also want to notify your health care provider if the pain is accompanied by any bleeding, cramping, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or change in vaginal discharge