Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy: What It Feels Like and What Helps

Dr. Thomas

6 days ago

2 min read

Pregnancy brings many physical changes, including new aches and pains around the abdomen, hips, pelvis, and lower back. Round ligament pain during pregnancy is common and usually harmless, but understanding its typical pattern can help you distinguish it from symptoms that require medical attention. Thomas Back and Body in Georgetown, Ontario, provides pregnancy-focused chiropractic care to support comfort and mobility during this changing time.

Pregnant woman with round ligament pain during pregnancy. Learn more about round ligament pain and how to find relief at Thomas Back and Body.

Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy: What It Feels Like

The round ligaments are bands of connective tissue that support the uterus. As the uterus grows, these ligaments stretch and become more sensitive. The result may be a sudden pulling, stabbing, cramping, or sharp pain on one or both sides of the lower abdomen, pelvis, hip, or groin (Cleveland Clinic, 2021).

Round ligament pain is most common during the second trimester, although it can occur earlier or later. It often lasts only a few seconds or minutes and may be felt more strongly on the right side. Common triggers include standing up quickly, rolling over in bed, coughing, sneezing, laughing, or changing position suddenly (Health Service Executive, 2023).

Unlike persistent abdominal pain, round ligament discomfort often improves when you rest or change position. However, every pregnancy is different, and pain should not automatically be assumed to be round ligament pain without considering other possible causes.

What Helps Relieve the Discomfort?

Several simple strategies may reduce symptoms:

Move gradually when standing, getting out of bed, or turning.
Support your abdomen with your hands when coughing or sneezing.
Rest on your side with a pillow between your knees.
Apply a warm—not hot—compress to the painful area.
Avoid sudden movements and activities that consistently increase discomfort.
Ask your healthcare provider whether a maternity support belt is appropriate.
Try gentle, pregnancy-safe mobility exercises under professional guidance.

A chiropractor with experience in prenatal care can assess movement patterns and provide individualized advice. Treatment may include gentle manual techniques, mobility exercises, posture education, and recommendations for modifying daily activities. Chiropractic care should complement, not replace, care from your midwife, family doctor, or obstetrician.

When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Provider?

Although round ligament pain is generally considered a normal pregnancy symptom, severe, constant, or worsening pain should be assessed. Contact your healthcare provider promptly if pain occurs with vaginal bleeding, fluid leakage, fever, chills, painful urination, dizziness, vomiting, regular contractions, pelvic pressure, lower-back pain, or difficulty walking (Health Service Executive, 2023).

If you are experiencing recurring discomfort and want guidance with safe movement during pregnancy, contact Thomas Back and Body in Georgetown, Ontario, to schedule an assessment.

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