Round ligament pain (RLP) is a common sensation, often described as a sharp, stabbing, or pulling feeling in the lower abdomen or groin area. This pain typically begins during the second trimester, around week 14, as the uterus undergoes rapid growth. The round ligaments are two structures that connect the uterus to the front of the pelvis, helping to hold it in place. As the uterus expands, these ligaments stretch and thicken, making them susceptible to sudden spasms when movement occurs. RLP is a normal symptom of pregnancy and poses no threat to the developing baby.
Quick Relief Techniques for Acute Pain
A spasm of round ligament pain is frequently triggered by abrupt movements like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or quickly changing positions. The immediate goal is to reduce tension on the ligaments. Practice the “curl and flex” maneuver just before an anticipated sneeze or cough. This involves bending forward at the hips and slightly tucking the pelvis, which shortens the distance between the ligament attachments.
If the pain strikes unexpectedly, stop all movement and rest immediately to allow the spasm to subside. Changing your body position very slowly can offer swift relief. Try rolling onto your side or getting into a hands-and-knees position. This uses gravity to briefly take pressure off the lower abdomen and the strained ligaments.
Applying a warm compress or a heating pad set to a low temperature directly on the painful spot can help relax tense muscles. Focusing on deep, controlled breathing during the acute pain episode helps manage the discomfort. This acute pain is usually brief, lasting from a few seconds up to a few minutes.
Long-Term Management and Support
Managing round ligament pain involves making daily adjustments to posture, movement, and physical support to reduce the frequency and severity of episodes. A foundational strategy is using a maternity support belt or belly band, which provides gentle compression and helps lift the weight of the growing abdomen. This external support helps offload the strain on the round ligaments. The belt should be positioned low on the abdomen and worn during periods of activity or prolonged standing.
Daily movements should be performed with intention and slowness, especially when getting out of bed or standing up from a chair. When rolling over in bed, bend your knees first and then move your entire body as a unit, avoiding a sudden twist of the torso that can provoke a spasm. Using a full-length pregnancy pillow improves comfort while sleeping by supporting the abdomen and maintaining pelvic alignment.
Integrating gentle, low-impact movements into your routine helps maintain flexibility and core strength, which supports the ligaments. Prenatal yoga or specific stretches, such as the Cat-Cow pose, hip flexor stretches, and pelvic clocks, can mobilize the pelvis and surrounding tissues. These exercises improve the balance and mobility of the joints and muscles that interact with the round ligaments.
Physical Therapy
For persistent discomfort, a referral to a prenatal physical therapist may be beneficial. A specialist can assess muscle imbalances, recommend targeted core strengthening exercises, and perform manual release techniques to alleviate tension on the ligaments.
Knowing When to Seek Medical Guidance
While round ligament pain is a normal symptom of pregnancy, it is important to distinguish it from other potentially serious abdominal issues. Contact your obstetrician or midwife immediately if the pain becomes constant, severe, or cramp-like. This is especially true if the pain does not lessen after resting and changing your position, as normal RLP is a fleeting, sharp spasm, not a continuous ache.
Additional symptoms signal the need for medical evaluation, as they are not typical of round ligament pain and may suggest conditions like preterm labor or a urinary tract infection. Report these symptoms to your provider immediately.
Seek medical guidance if pain is accompanied by:
- Fever or chills.
- Pain experienced during urination.
- Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage.
- Persistent nausea and vomiting.