Round ligament pain is one of those unpleasant symptoms that will accompany you during almost the entire pregnancy, mainly during the second and third trimesters. Unfortunately there is no treatment, but there are definitely things you can do to feel better. In this article I will give you information about round ligament pain during pregnancy, causes, symptoms, how to differentiate round ligament pain from any other pains, and what things you can do to get relief naturally. Ready? Let’s begin.
What Does Round Ligament Pain during pregnancy Feel Like?
Round ligament pain is characterized by a sharp sensation that travels from your lower belly to your groin, can be excruciating. What’s the good news? The discomfort is pretty common during pregnancy, intermittent, and normally goes away on its own after a few weeks.
What Is the Cause of Round Ligament Pain?
Round ligaments are rope-like structures that extend from the top of each side of the uterus and insert into the groin. This anatomy is essential because when pregnant women are in discomfort, they traditionally gesture in the direction of this ligament. So, what causes round ligament pain? As the uterus expands during pregnancy, these ligaments stretch, causing nerve spasms and shooting pains.
When round ligament discomfort begins?
When your uterus is big enough that begins to protrude out of the pelvic cavity. This usually takes place at the end of the first trimester or the beginning of the second trimester. But is a lot more noticeable during the third trimester due to the large size of uterus and baby.
What is the best way to tell whether you have round ligament pain?
So, how do you know if the pain you’re experiencing is round ligament pain? And where exactly you’ll feel the discomforts? It usually feels like a throbbing, pulling, agonizing, or shooting pain that radiates down into your groin area from the side of your mid-abdomen. Even though the ligaments are present on both sides of the body, it is more typically felt on the right side. Round ligament discomfort can strike at any time, but it’s frequently brought on by rapid or jerky movements, such as getting out of bed or even sneezing. Round ligament pain can also be caused by strenuous activity or a lot of movement, so you may need to take it easy for a bit.
How long does it take for round ligament pain to go away?
The good news is that round ligament pain isn’t very long-lasting, both in terms of how long each episode lasts and how long it lasts throughout your pregnancy. When you experience a shooting pain, it normally lasts for a few seconds or minutes.
For some women the occasional pain will usually subside a few weeks after it first appears: It usually begins around 12 to 14 weeks, when your bump begins to emerge from the uterus, and ends around 16 weeks. For other women however, the pain can sometimes persist a little longer all the way until the third trimester of pregnancy.
How to Relieve Pain in the Round Ligament during pregnancy?
We’re sorry to tell you this, but this is probably one of those things you’ll simply have to deal with. While there are no guarantees that round ligament pain will go away, there are a few things you may do to assist ease discomfort. First and foremost, cease doing whatever it was that caused the pain.
Tips to get rid of round ligament discomfort:
- Shift your weight by changing positions. A specific position can sometimes cause round ligament pain. Slowly move about and see if changing positions helps to relieve the pain.
- Be ready to avoid unexpected movements. Do you have a sneeze or a cough coming on? Flex your hips to prepare for these quick movements.
- Take a break. Round ligament pain can be caused by sudden movements or excessive activity, so try slowing down, moving intentionally, and resting your body as needed. You’ve put in a lot of effort, so be kind to yourself.
- Gentle stretches are very beneficial. Do you have a lot of discomfort in your round ligaments? Gentle stretching or prenatal yoga positions may be beneficial. The American Pregnancy Association recommends getting down on your hands and knees and lowering your head to the ground while keeping your bottom up in the air.
- Get help. Do you have a few minutes? For further support, lie down on your left side with a pillow beneath your tummy. A maternity belt may help relieve some of the pressure on your pelvic and ligaments.
- Warm compression is fantastic. Round ligament pain can be alleviated by using a warm compress. Always make sure the compress or heating pad isn’t too warm.
- If nothing helps, consider trying acetaminophen as a pain reliever. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can also take acetaminophen to assist you get through the agony. However, since round ligament pain is usually a temporary symptom, you might want to try a few other alternatives first. And please don’t forget always check with your doctor first before taking any medications during pregnancy.
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What Should You Do If You Have Severe Round Ligament Pain?
The truth is, while round ligament pain might be unpleasant during pregnancy, it should go away fast or respond to a warm compress, rest, or Perhaps a pain reliever.
If you’re not sure whether you’re having round ligament pain or abdominal trouble, stop what you’re doing and take a break. Pay attention to your body’s sensations and ask yourself the following questions:
- Is there anything that seems to be causing the pain?
- Is it a continuous or a periodic occurrence?
A simple examination can help you figure out if the pain you’re experiencing is actually round ligament pain.
Call your OB if you’re having what you think is significant or consistent round ligament discomfort. It’s possible that the pain isn’t caused by round ligaments. Other pregnancy issues, such as hypertension, placenta abruption, or preterm labor, also cause abdominal pain. It could also be a sign of something else, such as appendicitis, which is unrelated to pregnancy. If the pain is keeping you from undertaking routine tasks or is accompanied by other disturbing symptoms, see a doctor as soon as possible.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor asap:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Bleeding
- Difficulty walking
- Pain when urinating
- Lower back pain
- Intense pelvic pressure
- Regular and consistent contractions
Related articles you might want to check after.
Planning To Quit Smoking for A Healthy Pregnancy? 9 Tips to Ease the Journey.
Is Covid Vaccine Safe During Pregnancy?
Tips to prepare for a healthy pregnancy.
How to avoid fetal malformations during pregnancy.
How to maximize your chances of getting pregnant.
Final thoughts about round ligament pain during pregnancy.
Of course, pregnancy is hard on your body, it’s likely that you’re just dealing with round ligament pain or the usual aches and pains that come with growing a child in your belly. Even so, it’s always a good idea to notify your doctor if you’re experiencing any discomfort.
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Zadi, xo
Disclaimer: The medical information on this post is for educational and entertainment use only. Under no circumstances, this information is to replace your doctor’s advice or to treat any disease. For proper care, always visit your doctor.
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