Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy: What Every Mom Should Know
02 Feb 2025
Pregnancy brings many changes to your body—some exciting, some uncomfortable. One of the most common discomforts? Round ligament pain. If you’ve felt sudden, sharp pains in your lower belly or groin, don’t worry—you’re not alone!
Let’s explore what round ligament pain is, why it happens, and how to relieve it so you can enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy.
Sharp, stabbing pain on one or both sides of your lower belly.
A sudden ache when you move, stand up, roll over, or sneeze.
Pain that lasts only a few seconds before going away. This pain is common in the second trimester as your uterus expands, but it can happen earlier too.
Provides gentle compression.
Lifts your belly slightly.
Feels comfortable to wear under clothes.
Pain with fever, chills, or vomiting
Pain with vaginal bleeding or contractions
Pain that makes it hard to walk or function These could be signs of a more serious condition, like preterm labor or a urinary tract infection.
What Is Round Ligament Pain?
The round ligaments are two bands of tissue that support your uterus. As your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and thicken, causing pain when they’re pulled too quickly. You might feel:Sharp, stabbing pain on one or both sides of your lower belly.
A sudden ache when you move, stand up, roll over, or sneeze.
Pain that lasts only a few seconds before going away. This pain is common in the second trimester as your uterus expands, but it can happen earlier too.
What Causes Round Ligament Pain?
During pregnancy, your uterus grows from the size of a pear to the size of a watermelon! As it stretches, your round ligaments work harder to support it. The pain happens when:- Sudden movements (standing up quickly, coughing, rolling over) pull the ligaments.
- Exercise or physical activity puts extra strain on your belly.
- Your baby’s growth increases pressure on surrounding muscles and tissues.
How to Relieve Round Ligament Pain
Thankfully, there are simple ways to ease the discomfort:1. Move Slowly
Avoid sudden movements that trigger pain. Try:- Rolling over in bed slowly and carefully.
- Supporting your belly when standing up.
- Bending at the knees instead of the waist when picking things up.
2. Use Belly Support
Wearing a pregnancy support belt can help reduce strain on your ligaments. Look for one that:Provides gentle compression.
Lifts your belly slightly.
Feels comfortable to wear under clothes.
3. Try Gentle Stretches
Stretching can reduce tightness and improve flexibility. Try:- Pelvic tilts – Stand or sit, then tilt your pelvis forward and back.
- Child’s pose – Kneel and stretch forward to relieve tension.
- Side stretches – Raise one arm and gently lean to the opposite side.
4. Apply Warmth
A warm (not hot!) compress or a warm bath can relax tight muscles. Avoid direct heat on your belly, but placing a warm towel on your lower abdomen may help.5. Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can worsen muscle cramps, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.When to Call Your Doctor
Although round ligament pain is normal, some pain should not be ignored. Call your doctor if you experience: Severe pain that doesn’t go awayPain with fever, chills, or vomiting
Pain with vaginal bleeding or contractions
Pain that makes it hard to walk or function These could be signs of a more serious condition, like preterm labor or a urinary tract infection.
Final Thoughts: You’re Not Alone!
Round ligament pain is a common and normal part of pregnancy. While it can be uncomfortable, simple changes like moving slowly, stretching, and using belly support can make a big difference.Most importantly, listen to your body and don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor if something feels off. You’ve got this, mama!
