Oh, My Aching Back: All About Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can seem borderline magical at times, but it comes with its fair share of aches and pains, especially in the lower abdomen and back. One common culprit is round ligament pain. 

If you've felt a sudden, sharp pain in your lower belly or groin while moving, stretching, or even sneezing, you’re not alone. As many as 30% of women experience round ligament pain during their pregnancies.

But what can you do about it?

Below, our board-certified OB/GYNs and midwives at Westover Hills Women's Health explain what round ligament pain is and how you can find relief from it during your pregnancy.

What is round ligament pain?

Round ligaments are rope-like structures that support your uterus and connect it to your pelvis. You have two — one at each side of your uterus — and they’re each about 10-12 centimeters long.

As your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and thicken to accommodate the expanding uterus. This stretching can cause brief, sharp, or aching pains on one or both sides of your lower abdomen.

What round ligament pain feels like and when to expect it

You might suspect that you’re experiencing round ligament pain if you notice:

• A quick, sharp pain in your lower belly or groin, especially with sudden movements like rolling onto your side in bed
• Pain that radiates to your lower back
• A dull, aching discomfort after physical activity
• Pain that worsens when changing positions, laughing, coughing, or sneezing

Round ligament pain typically begins in the second trimester as your uterus expands rapidly. Some women may feel it earlier, while others might experience it later in pregnancy.

How to find relief

While round ligament pain is a normal part of pregnancy, there are ways to ease the discomfort:

Change positions slowly

Avoid sudden movements that can trigger pain. Try rolling onto your side before getting out of bed.

Support your belly

A maternity support belt can help reduce strain on your ligaments. If you decide to try a maternity support belt, follow the instructions on your belt. 

Try prenatal yoga

Gentle stretching, such as the pelvic tilt or child’s pose, can provide relief. As a bonus, prenatal yoga can also reduce stress, boost your mood, ease other aches and pains, improve circulation, and contribute to a better labor experience.

Try warm therapy

A warm (not hot) compress or warm bath can relax tight ligaments. Pregnant women shouldn’t be in a bath that’s over about 100 degrees, so keep your bathwater around 98.6 to 100 F.

Rest and hydrate

Fatigue and dehydration can worsen muscle and ligament pain. Stay hydrated and take breaks when needed.

When to be concerned about pain

While round ligament pain is common, certain symptoms may signal something more serious. Contact us if you experience:

• Severe or persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest
• Pain accompanied by fever, chills, or nausea
• Cramping, spotting, or bleeding
• Difficulty walking due to intense pain

If you suspect you’re experiencing an emergency during your pregnancy, go to the nearest labor and delivery department. 

Get help for pregnancy aches 

Round ligament pain is a normal part of pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer with it. With simple adjustments and self-care, you can ease discomfort and focus on enjoying your pregnancy. 

If you're ever unsure whether your pain is normal, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. You can call one of our San Antonio, Texas, locations, or request your next prenatal appointment online.