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Round Ligament Pain
Round ligament pain is a sharp thrust or jabbing feeling often felt in the lower abdomen or groin area on one or both sides. It is one of the most common problems during pregnancy and is considered a normal part of pregnancy. It is most often felt during the second time period.
Here is what you require to know about round ligament pain, including some tips to help you feel better.
Causes of Round Ligament Pain
Several thick ligaments support and surround your womb (uterus) as it grows during pregnancy. One of them is called the round ligament.
The round ligament joins the front part of the womb to your groin, the area where your legs attach to your pelvis. The round ligament generally tightens and relaxes slowly.
As your womb and baby grow, the round ligament stretches. That makes it more likely to become tired.
Sudden movements can cause the ligament to tighten quickly, like a rubber band cracking. This causes a sudden and quick pushing feeling.
Symptoms of Round Ligament Pain
Round ligament pain can be uncomfortable and concerning. But it is considered usual as your body changes during pregnancy.
The symptoms of round ligament pain include a sharp, sudden shiver in the belly. It normally affects the right side, but it may happen on both sides. The pain only lasts a few seconds.
Exercise may cause the pain, as will quick movements such as:
- sneezing
- coughing
- laughing
- rolling over in bed
- standing up too quickly
Treatment of Round Ligament Pain
Here are some tips that may help decrease your discomfort:
Pain relief. Take over-the-counter acetaminophen for pain, if necessary. Ask your doctor if this is OK.
Exercise. Get enough exercises to keep your stomach (core) muscles strong. Doing prenatal yoga or stretching exercises can be supportive. Ask your doctor which exercises are secure for you and your baby.
A beneficent exercise involves putting your hands and knees on the floor, lowering your head, and pushing your backside into the air.
Avoid sudden movements. Change positions slowly (such as standing up or sitting down) to avoid rapid movements that may cause stretching and pain.
Flex your hips. Bend and flex your hips before you a cough, sneeze, or laugh to avoid jerks on the ligaments.
Apply warmth. A hot – water bottle or a warm bath may be helpful. Ask your doctor if this is OK. Extreme and intense heat can be dangerous to the baby.
You should try to modify your daily activity level and avoid positions that may worsen the condition.
When to Call the Doctor
Always tell your doctor about any kind of pain you have during pregnancy. Round ligament pain is rapid and doesn’t last long.
Call your health care provider instantly if you have:
severe pain that lasts for more than a few minutes fever chill pain on urination difficulty walking Belly pain during pregnancy can be due to many different causes. It is important for your doctor to eliminate more serious conditions, including pregnancy complications such as placenta abruption or non-pregnancy illnesses such as:
- an inguinal hernia
- appendicitis
- kidney, liver, and stomach problems
- Preterm labor pains perhaps sometimes are mistaken for round ligament pain
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