FAQs about Pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a wonderful and exciting experience, but it can also come with a variety of aches and pains. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, you may have many questions about what types of pain are normal and what you can do to alleviate them. Here are some common FAQs about pregnancy-related pain.

1. What are the most common types of pain during pregnancy?

Common types of pain during pregnancy include back pain, headache, round ligament pain, pelvic girdle pain, rib pain and pubic symphysis pain. Back pain is often due to the increased load from carrying bub and therefore there is an increase in strain placed on the lower back and pelvis. Headaches are also common and can be caused by stress, hormonal changes, and poor posture. Round ligament pain is a sharp pain in the lower abdomen that occurs when the ligaments that support the uterus, stretch. Pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including the sacro-iliac joint/s at the back of the pelvic and symphysis pubis dysfunction at the front.

2. Is back pain normal during pregnancy?

Yes, back pain is very common during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. The extra load of bub and strain on the lower back and pelvis can often cause pain and discomfort.

3. How can I relieve back pain during pregnancy?

There are several ways to relieve back pain during pregnancy, including gentle exercise, good posture, proper lifting techniques, and the use of a support pillow. You may also find relief from physiotherapy, massage, or a warm bath. If your back pain is severe or persistent, you should consult one of our physiotherapists.

4. Can headaches during pregnancy be treated?

Yes, headaches during pregnancy can be treated with a variety of treatment options, including stretching, hydration, and physiotherapy. As physiotherapists, we commonly treat headaches in both pregnant and non-pregnant clients and therefore have a range of treatment options available.

5. Is round ligament pain normal during pregnancy?

Round ligament pain is caused by the stretching of the ligaments that support the uterus as it grows and expands. The pain is usually brief and sharp, and may occur on one or both sides of the lower abdomen. It is a common, and normal, part of pregnancy.

6. How can I relieve round ligament pain during pregnancy?

To relieve round ligament pain during pregnancy, you can try changing positions, taking a warm bath, or using a heat pad. You may also find relief from gentle exercise, such as walking or stretching. If your pain is severe or persistent, you should speak with your physio, GP or obstetrician.

7. Can pelvic pain during pregnancy be treated?

Yes, pelvic pain during pregnancy can be treated with a variety of different treatment options, including physiotherapy treatment, stretching and strengthening. Typically, with physiotherapy, pelvic pain is treating by the use of an SIJ belt, strengthening of the gluteal muscles, strengthening of the adductor muscles and the lower abdominal muscles too.

Pregnancy can come with a variety of aches and pains, but many of them are normal and can be treated with simple intervention. If you experience persistent or severe pain during pregnancy, speaking to one of our physiotherapists here at Instinct Health would be an excellent start.