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One of the most common symptoms that pregnant people experience is round ligament pain. This type of pain usually occurs in the second trimester, but it can occur any time during pregnancy. Round ligaments are bands of tissue that support the uterus as it grows during pregnancy, and as the uterus expands, these ligaments stretch and thin out. This stretching and thinning can cause pain and discomfort in the lower abdomen and groin area. While round ligament pain is usually normal and nothing to worry about, it can be very uncomfortable. Some degree of pregnancy aches and pains might be inevitable, but they can be at least partially prevented by good posture and body balancing. Let’s explore tips and tricks to help you cope with round ligament pain, so you can enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest.
Rest
One of the best things you can do to cope with round ligament pain is to rest. Don’t overexert yourself! Take frequent breaks throughout the day to put your feet up and take the growing weight of your uterus off of your hips. While prenatal exercise and staying active during pregnancy are important, make sure you’re not pushing yourself too hard. If you start to feel pain, stop what you’re doing and rest for a few minutes. This will help give your round ligaments a break and prevent further discomfort.
Use Heat Therapy
Applying heat to your lower abdomen and groin area can help ease round ligament pain. You can use a warm compress, take a warm (not hot) bath, or use a heating pad. Just make sure you’re not applying heat directly to your skin as this can cause burns.
Wear a Belly Support Band
As your uterus expands, extra pressure weighs on your hips and surrounding structures, including your round ligaments. Wearing supportive clothing like a belly band or maternity belt can help take some of the pressure off your ligaments and reduce pain and discomfort.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can make round ligament pain worse, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
Practice Gentle Exercise
Gentle exercise like prenatal yoga, walking, or swimming can help strengthen your muscles and reduce round ligament pain. Just make sure you’re not overdoing it and listen to your body.
Explore Body Balancing
Going through pregnancy with unbalanced ligaments and muscles can be extra challenging. You can help keep your body balanced with daily and weekly activities that release tight body structures and promote symmetry. Good posture is also key for body balancing, and can help relieve pregnancy discomforts in and of itself. Consider prenatal chiropractic care to encourage body symmetry as well.
Hang in there!
Round ligament pain is a common and normal part of pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it. By resting when you need to, using heat therapy, wearing supportive clothing, staying hydrated, practicing gentle exercise, and encouraging body balancing, you can help ease round ligament pain and enjoy your pregnancy to the fullest. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent pain, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying issues.
