"A sudden sharp pain in your lower abdomen as you stand up—what could it be?"

Pregnancy is a journey filled with lots of changes, both emotionally and physically. One of these changes you might have experienced is a sharp and unexpected pain in the lower abdomen known as round ligament pain. In this blog post, we'll explore what round ligament pain is, why it happens, and how you can manage it effectively.

What Is the Round Ligament?

The round ligaments are two cord-like structures in the pelvis that connect the front of the uterus to the pelvis, specifically attaching to the labia majora. They play a large role in supporting the uterus as it grows during pregnancy.

What Happens to the Round Ligament During Pregnancy?

As your uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, more tension and stretch is placed on the round ligaments. This stretching can cause the ligaments to become tense and even spasm.

What Are the Symptoms of Round Ligament Pain?

• Sharp, Sudden Pain: Often felt on one side of the lower abdomen, but can occur on both sides of the lower abdomen.

• Triggered by Movement: Pain may occur when changing positions like getting up from lying down or standing up quickly, unilateral movements like putting your pants on or getting into a bathtub, and sneezing or coughing.

• Quick Duration: Typically lasts only a few seconds to a couple of minutes.

What Causes Round Ligament Pain?

The primary cause is the stretching and pulling of the round ligaments due to the growing uterus. Sudden movements can also cause these ligaments to tighten rapidly, leading to spasming and thus pain.

How Is Round Ligament Pain Treated?

Rest and Positioning

• Slow Movements: Since transitional movements are the most common to trigger round ligament pain, changing position slowly with getting out of bed, standing, or dressing can help to prevent quick stretching of the ligament.

• Monitoring Posture: Avoiding overly arched positions of the low back or excessive anterior pelvic tilts can help to reduce the strain on this ligament. If you don’t know what an anterior pelvic tilt is, check out our previous blog post on that for more information.

• Supportive Positions: Use pillows to support your abdomen while sleeping or resting or avoid a prolonged over stretch of the ligaments.

Pain Relief Techniques

• Massage Techniques: Gently massaging the abdomen, groin or hips can help to relieve surrounding tension around the ligament and give it more ability to move easily.

• Breathing Exercises: Deep diaphragm breathing can help to no only relax the muscles, but it can also help with allow your core muscles to work more effectively. Check out our previous blog on diaphragm breathing to learn more on it’s relationship to your deep core and pelvic floor.

• Supportive Garments: Abdominal support belts can help to elevate and lift the belly to reduce round ligament strain and stretch.

Core Activation Exercises

• Transverse Abdominus Activation: Gently activating your deep abdominal muscles prior to movement and during transitions can help to better support the round ligament and surrounding structures. You can engage the transversus abdominus by bringing your belly button to your back, or think about “hugging” the baby in. Make sure you continue breathing during this activation.

How Is Round Ligament Pain Prevented?

• Regular Exercise: Strengthening your deep core muscles to include the pelvic floor and regular stretching of the back, hips, and groin can all help.

• Avoiding Sudden Movements: Be mindful when standing up or bending over, and doing this slowly can help prevent pain from coming one.

• Supportive Wear: Consider maternity belts that support the abdomen.

When Should I See My Doctor?

If you experience severe pain, fever, bleeding, or pain accompanied by other unusual symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of more serious conditions.

Will Having Round Ligament Pain Cause My Baby Any Harm?

No, round ligament pain does not physically harm your baby and is common in pregnancy. However, tightness in the abdomen, hips, or pelvis that develops from avoiding movements or that restricts you from engaging in your regular exercise routine can influence the baby’s position throughout your pregnancy.

Will I Still Have Round Ligament Pain After Having My Baby?

Round ligament pain typically resolves after childbirth as the uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size. If you continue to experience pain postpartum, consult your healthcare provider.

Physical Therapy and Exercise During Pregnancy

Participating in prenatal physical therapy can not only strengthen the muscles supporting the round ligament, but it can also help with mobility and core strength in your body. This can assist with baby’s position, labor and birth outcomes, and postpartum recovery. Exercises like prenatal yoga and prenatal Pilates are excellent options, but should be performed under professional guidance.

Resources and Support

• Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy: Learn more about managing pelvic discomfort.

• Pelvic PT Services: Find out how pelvic floor physical therapists can assist during pregnancy.

• Yoga and Pilates: Explore safe prenatal classes in your area.

Conclusion

Understanding round ligament pain not only eases some of the scaries from unknown pain, but empowers you to manage it effectively. Remember, while this pain is a common experience, you don't have to endure it silently. Ensuring a comfortable pregnancy journey is not only important for you, but for your baby as well.. Utilize the strategies outlined above and don't hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for support.

Dr. Jana Richardson, PT, DPT, WCS, PRPC, CIDN
Dual Board Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Chicago Pelvic Health

Dr. Jana Richardson is a highly accomplished pelvic floor therapist with dual board certifications and extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor dysfunctions. As the owner of Chicago Pelvic Health, Dr. Richardson is dedicated to providing personalized and effective care for her patients. With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy, and specialized certifications in Women’s Health and Pelvic Rehabilitation, Dr. Richardson is a leading expert in her field. She is also certified in Integrative Dry Needling, further enhancing her ability to offer comprehensive treatment plans. Dr. Richardson’s commitment to patient-centered care and her passion for helping individuals achieve optimal pelvic health make her an invaluable asset to the community.

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