If you’re expecting a small bundle in the near future, you likely know by now that creating a new tiny human can be both exciting and exhausting. While you’re dreaming of the very moment when you’ll finally meet your sweet little one, you’re probably also looking forward to relief from the common symptoms of pregnancy (restless legs, anyone?).
Pelvic pain is arguably one of the worst of the many less than favorable side effects that moms-to-be often experience. Not to worry, though; 8 Sheep Organics is here to the rescue!
In this article, we’re exploring common causes of pelvic pain to uncover why it’s so common during pregnancy and how to remedy it safely. So if you’re hoping to make the next nine months a little less nerve-wracking — keep reading.
What Should I Know About Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy?
Believe it or not, approximately 72 percent of all pregnant women experience pain in the pelvic area at some point or another. Yup, it’s true — as organs make room for the growing uterus, your hormones drastically change and ligaments stretch, which can cause quite a bit of pain “down there.”
While no two pregnancies are exactly alike, this notorious pregnancy symptom typically makes its debut during the first trimester and can continue through the second trimester until the end of the third trimester.
In other words, some soon-to-be moms may experience pelvic pain in early pregnancy, only to find pain relief following the birth of their little one (aka, nine months later).
With this in mind, some of the most common culprits behind pelvic pain — or “pelvic girdle pain” — during pregnancy include:
- Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) — inflammation and discomfort caused by the movement of joints and ligaments
- Growth spurts of the fetus
- Pressure from the developing baby’s weight
- The secretion of relaxin (a hormone produced by the ovary and placenta) — allows tendons and ligaments to soften and stretch in preparation for labor
- Pelvic pressure and cramping
- Constipation
What Does Pelvic Pain Feel Like?
The side effects of pelvic pain tend to be… well… pain in your pelvic region. We know, we know —probably not the answer you were looking for, but the truth is that pelvic pain can feel different from person to person, with the severity ranging from barely noticeable to unbelievably severe.
Simply put, pelvic pain can be characterized by discomfort around the pelvis.
That said, while pain in the pubic area and groin are the most common symptoms associated with pelvic pain, you may also notice:
- Pain that becomes worse at night, ultimately making it difficult to get a good night’s rest
- Lower back pain
- Heavy pressure
- Sharp, stabbing pains in the vagina, perineum, or rectum
- Radiating pain
- Muscle spasms
- General soreness
- Pain that’s made worse with movement
- A clicking sound or grinding sensation
Since so many different factors can contribute to pelvic pain, it’s always a good idea to check with your OBGYN if you feel any discomfort, especially if you have severe pain. Get with your doctor sooner rather than later if your pain is accompanied by any bleeding, swelling, nausea, vomiting, a severe headache, or fever.
In general, whenever you feel something isn’t right, you should call your healthcare provider immediately.
How Is Pelvic Pain Treated?
Unfortunately, there’s not too much that you can do about pelvic pain — but there are a few natural remedies that you can try to help make it a little less unbearable:
#1. Get a Prenatal Massage
If you ask us, there’s just about nothing better than a gentle rub down to calm the mind and soothe stress — but did you know that a prenatal massage can help ease pelvic pain, too?
A prenatal massage (performed by an experienced prenatal massage therapist) aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation, and just make you feel good — aka, it’s perfect for pelvic and abdominal pain (and a backache, too).
#2. Take a Warm Bath
In addition to prenatal massage, a warm (not hot!) bath can be oh-so soothing, helping your body to relax while loosening tense muscles and ligaments. We recommend tossing in a few sprinkles of our Therapeutic Bath Salts for an extra healing boost.
Made with 100 percent clean, natural ingredients like Epsom salts and Himalayan pink salts, this unbelievably therapeutic blend can do wonders to ease muscle aches, pains, and tension.
Complete your indulgent bath with an Aromatherapy Candle to help you unwind and support deep relaxation.
Note: To take a bath safely, it’s of the utmost importance that you ensure the water temperature does not exceed 100 degrees. An elevated body temp can be dangerous for your growing baby, so if you’re soaking in the tub to alleviate pelvic pain, do so in H2O that’s lukewarm — not hot.
#3. Use 8 Sheep Organics’ Sleepy Body Lotion
If pelvic pain is putting a damper on your beauty rest, we suggest using 8 Sheep Organics’ Sleepy Body Lotion. This gentle, pregnancy-safe formula is rich in organic ingredients like natural magnesium and works like magic to kick discomfort to the curb.
Simply apply two to three teaspoons of lotion onto areas of pain or tension after a warm bath and enjoy a deep, restful snooze — pain-free.
Summary
Pelvic pain is a common pregnancy symptom that affects more than 70 percent of pregnant women. There are a number of things that can cause it, but more often than not, fluctuating hormones are to blame. Although there’s no cure to treat pelvic pain, there are many natural remedies that you can try to help ease your discomfort.
That said, if you’ve tried to soothe your pain and aren’t having any luck in the relief department, be sure to talk with your OBGYN, who can point you in the right direction.
Sources:
Low back pain and pelvic pain during pregnancy: prevalence and risk factors | PubMed
Hot Tubs During Pregnancy | American Pregnancy Association
Pelvic pain in pregnancy | NHS
Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy | American Pregnancy Association