Round Ligament Pain Relief (RLP)
Round Ligament Pain is a signal that your body is working hard to support your growing baby. Signs of RLP are a sharp aching or jabbing pain on one or both sides of the abdomen near the hips and groin.
PLP pain usually comes and goes and lasts a few seconds at a time. When you quickly change positions from sitting to standing or rolling over in bed, you will feel the pain. You may feel more discomfort or pain after increased physical activity. Rapid movement such as sneezing or coughing may also cause pain in your sides.
It is common when the ligaments are stretched to accommodate the growth of your baby. Most women start to feel round ligament pain by the second trimester when the uterus outgrows the pelvis and pushes up into the abdomen. It may continue into the third trimester.
Relief from Round Ligament Pain:
- Don’t over-exercise – try a gentle form of exercise if you find the pain increase during your regular workout.
- Slower movements – when getting up from sitting or lying down, take your time.
- Gentle stretches can give some relief such as pelvic tilts and rocks, or prenatal yoga.
- Pregnancy Brace such as the Serola SI belt may provide some relief.
- If you are coughing or sneezing it helps to bend and flex your hips to avoid pulling on the ligaments.
Treatment
If the pain is severe, lasts more than a few minutes or you have difficulty walking and other movements, contact your chiropractor.
Chiropractic adjustments can help address the imbalances and release pressure and discomfort.
Dr Natasha Hayden is a pediatric and prenatal chiropractor that is passionate about helping her community discover just how good their bodies are designed to feel, so they can do more of what they love.
