Pregnancy is one of the most rewarding experiences in the life of a female, but with it comes a lot of sensations that are not normal. For females who are going to give birth for the first time, it could be the time to go through a lot of physical and emotional changes, which may break you at certain times. Developing a fetus inside while keeping your health at its best can be extremely challenging. Sleeping and waking up with pain in various body organs, especially in the pelvic region, is quite normal, especially during 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Since the extra weight is kept pushing down in the pelvis, it becomes difficult to sleep.
In this blog post, we discussed pelvic girdle pain, the reasons for encountering it, and how to combat it effectively. Keep reading to clear your aspects around pelvic pain during pregnancy 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
What is Pelvic Pain?
Experiencing pelvic pain during pregnancy is normal as your pelvis is given the added weight. With the ligaments stretched and organs shifted, your body has to allow some space for the uterus to grow. Although the discomfort is quite normal, if it starts debilitating, it is a sign of serious concerns that should be consulted with your gynecologist.
Pelvic pain starts from below the belly button and gradually expands to the lower back, genital area, thighs, and buttocks. It could be acute, which is treated through OTC medications, or chronic, which stays for longer and sometimes does not go away till giving birth. Some females have defined the pain as constant, burning, and gradually expanding, followed by severe pain during sexual intercourse. The pain sometimes excruciates to the extent that it even hinders the female from regular movements.
What Causes Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?
The pelvic pain during pregnancy is still not known however, when we talk about the growth of a fetus inside the uterus, the discomfort in the pelvic region seems to be quite normal. Obviously, when the lower region is provided with the additional weight of carrying an entire tiny human in it, the pressure is put on the pelvis. This results in the instability of the pelvis and may lead to constant pain in the lower region.
Pelvic pain in normal conditions is bearable and is not a serious concern however, if the constant pain is followed by vaginal bleeding, chills, or lack of mobility during the severe painful sensations, you need to get yourself checked by your gynecologist. Below we have mentioned several reasons that contribute to causing pelvic girdle pain.
Uterus Growth
it is obvious that during pregnancy, the uterus size expands to accommodate the growth of the fetus inside. This puts pressure on the vagina, leading to acute pain in the pelvis.
You are Constipated
If you are constipated and not taking enough water to regulate the phenomenon of digestion, it becomes difficult for the stool to pass out. This difficulty burdens the pelvis extra, leading to discomfort and pain in the pelvic region.
Urinary Tract Infection
UTI is a common cause of infection, especially among young pregnant females. During this condition, there is an utmost desire for urination that puts a lot of pressure on the pelvis.
False Labor Pains
Also known as ‘Braxton hicks contractions,’ arise during the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, and the purpose of these false contractions is to prepare the uterus for childbirth. However, these contractions are less painful and unpredictable and do not stay for longer. Females who feel these contractions have reported discomfort and pain in their pelvis.
Pelvic Organ Collapse
As the pregnancy proceeds and the uterus expands, the baby’s pressure is put on the pelvic floor muscles. The ligaments are stretched, and certain organs are pushed to the vagina. The disproportional movement of pelvis muscles and organs results into causing pain in the pelvic area.
How to Sleep with Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?
Pelvic pain is among the common reasons behind pregnant females not getting enough sleep. It is quite difficult to sleep while carrying additional weight, and with the constant pelvic pain, getting a good and sound sleep becomes even more complicated. During pregnancy, the female needs to get enough sleep hours as improper sleep during this period may be related to diabetes, preterm delivery, depression, anxiety, and preeclampsia.
While it is important to sleep in the right position during 2nd and 3rd trimesters, it is equally important to create a sound atmosphere that is noise-less and does not have too much light coming inside the room.
Sleep on The Side
Sleeping on the side with knees slightly bent is recommended for sound sleep. Sleeping this way helps de-stressing the vagina from carrying extra weight throughout the day. It also helps improve the blood flow and safely transfer nutrients to the baby. Avoid sleeping on the back as it may pressure the pelvis and disturb the blood flow towards the baby.
Sleep with a Pillow
If you suffer from pelvic girdle pain, put a pillow between your knees while sleeping. A pregnancy pillow helps keep your hips in a parallel position that destresses the pelvis. You may also put another pillow between your tummy to provide it with additional support.
Meditation
Before going to bed, try to do some yoga exercises to de-stress your pelvic pain. You may also unwind yourself by practicing your favorite exercises. Meditation is highly effective in tackling pelvic pain and getting rid of the painful strain that is put on the vagina.
Tips to Get a Sound Sleep During Pregnancy
While we put enough emphasis on sleeping in the right position during pregnancy, it is equally important to stay away from electronic devices before bedtime. Avoid interacting with your mobile devices for at least an hour before going to bed. You may read a book or practice some yoga postures to help you meditate before sleeping. Taking a body massage right before sleeping improves blood circulation, which helps get a sound sleep during the night. Do not eat anything exactly before going to bed, as it might result in acid reflux.
Home Remedies to Reduce Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
If the pelvic pain gets uncontrollable, you need to consult your OB-GYN about the pain. However, there are some at-home remedies that you may try to reduce those cramps and discomfort in the pelvic region.
- Avoid wearing heels and prefer wearing flat shoes, which make walking easier.
- Do yoga in the morning and also perform stretching exercises.
- Avoid heavy lifting, such as carrying other babies or anything heavier.
- If the pubic area hurts, try to treat it with a heat/ice pack.
- Keep your legs moving. Avoid sitting or standing for too long.
- Keep walking but do not go for too long, making coming back difficult or painful.
- You may take a prenatal massage from a therapist to ease the pelvic pain.
- Try taking warm baths.
- Do not do strenuous or triggering activities.
- Invest in a good-quality pelvic support garment to add balance and stability to the pelvis.
Bottom Line
While pelvic pain during pregnancy can be a relatively common occurrence, it can be troublesome and negatively impact the pregnancy experience, especially for new moms. Pregnant females need to understand when pelvic discomfort is typical and what they may do to reduce those sensations. If your pain is not reduced, there may be some complications that should be discussed with your gynecologist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I sleep to relieve pelvic pain?
To relieve pelvic pain, sleeping is suggested by placing a pillow between the knees and another pillow under the belly. Sleep on the side while keeping one or both knees bend.
What are the warning symptoms of pelvic pain?
The warning symptoms of pelvic pain include bloating, vaginal bleeding, pain during intercourse, painful urination, and menstrual cramps.
Why do I wake up with pelvic pain during pregnancy?
If you wake up with pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy, it might be due to the stiffness and uneven movements of pelvic joints and muscles during sleeping hours.
What position is comfortable for pelvic pain?
If you are struggling with pelvic pain during pregnancy, you are suggested to sleep on your side with a pillow between the knees and add extra support below the tummy.
Is walking good for pelvic floor pain?
Since regular walking helps strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, it effectively treats pelvic pain.
How long does pelvic pain last?
Pelvic pain can be acute or chronic. The acute pain triggers instantly and lasts soon after medications however, the chronic pain lasts for six months and sometimes goes after giving birth.
Is sitting all day bad for the pelvic floor?
Sitting in bad postures or the same position for long hours might put some pressure on the pelvic muscles, leading to pelvic girdle pain and pelvic floor disorders.
Is it normal to have pelvic pain all day?
Since the body of a pregnant female is making some room for the uterus grow, and the pelvic region is making a way to pass the baby during childbirth, it is common to have pain and discomfort in the pelvic region. However, if the pain persists for longer and is followed by vaginal bleeding, cramps, or pain while urinating, it is suggested to consult a gynecologist as soon as possible.
Is pelvic pain always serious?
Pelvic pain during 2nd and 3rd trimester is normal and is no sign of danger. However, in case of severe pain that results in hindering the body’s mobility might be an indicator of serious reproductive complications.
Where is pelvic pain located in pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the pelvic pain starts from below the belly button, around the hips, and below the abdomen and gradually expands to the hip bones.
What causes pelvic pain during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body’s organs are shifted, and muscles and ligaments are stretched to make space to accommodate the uterus’s growth. The pressure of the growing uterus is put on the pelvic region, which is why pelvic girdle pain arises during pregnancy.
Who is more likely to develop pelvic pain?
During pregnancy, if the female has any history of back pain, accidental fracture, hypermobility syndrome, and a high BMI, it may lead to pain and discomfort in the pelvic region.
How to relieve pelvic pain during pregnancy?
Physiotherapy, acupuncture, hypnosis, meditation, yoga, and massaging help greatly in reducing pelvic pain during pregnancy.
What is the nature of pelvic pain?
Females who suffer from pelvic pain have reported having it in the lower back, groin, thighs, legs, and hips. The pain can also be felt while changing positions and usually after waking up.
Can I exercise during pregnancy?
You may perform any exercise if it is not painful for you. Different females perceive exercising differently; some prefer cycling over walking, while others prefer swimming. You may opt for any exercise if it is not causing any pain to your body.
Will pelvic pain affect labor any way?
Females who suffer from pelvic pain usually go through the process of vaginal birth and not through cesarean section. Your gynae would suggest you the right position during childbirth so there is a lesser strain on the pelvis.
How long after giving birth does the pelvic pain go away?
The pelvic pain disappears after childbirth, or it may take a few weeks to months to vanish it completely. However, in a few females, the pain may last for a long after giving birth.
Can I have pelvic girdle pain during future pregnancies as well?
You can also have pelvic girdle pain in the next pregnancy, but this is not a compulsion. Nearly 7 out of 10 pregnant females who suffer from pelvic girdle pain are likely to develop pelvic pain in the next pregnancies as well.
What are some of the positive sleeping habits a pregnant female may adopt?
Sleep in a dark and noiseless room, avoid taking caffeine before bed, and stay away from electronic devices before bed.
John Davis is a passionate content writer with a knack for crafting engaging narratives across various subjects. With a keen eye for detail and a love for storytelling, John brings ideas to life through the power of words. His dedication to delivering high-quality and informative content has made him a trusted voice in the digital realm. When he’s not at his desk, you’ll find John exploring new hobbies and seeking inspiration in the world around him.
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