During pregnancy, the pregnant person may experience round ligament pain as short, sharp, stabbing pains, pulling usually on one side (it can be both sides) of the lower abdomen. This is common from 18-24 weeks when the uterus is changing shape and position due to the increased growth of the baby. Round ligament pain may also feel like a deep stich on a lower left or right side and it may feel tender when the care provider/midwife tries to feel the baby’s head on abdominal palpation. Round ligament pain may be triggered by movement and may be a ‘short sharp’ experience, however if you consider the amount of growth, stretch and movement of the uterus, it would make sense that the round ligaments may feel achy at times when they are stretching and changing. There are so many hormones like progesterone and relaxin that assist the growth and stretch of the ligaments during pregnancy. Everything can become so soft to accommodate the movement and growth, however this can mean that there can be ways to over stretch or pull the ligaments with sudden movements.
Experiencing round ligament pain in pregnancy is generally common and generally indicates a need to slow down, take it easy and offer the body some tender care and support.
If a pregnant person is ever worried about lower abdominal pain, it is always prudent to contact their care provider/midwife, however the short-lasting stretch or pull of one-sided round ligament pain is often not indicative of greater concerns.
Tips for comfort
- Soften into slower and more mindful movements. This helps to avoid over stretching.
- Remain active in gentle ways like walking and swimming. Movement always helps to keep us well.
- Belly dance and rock your hips.
- Wear a belly belt or firm abdominal support (this can help support the weight of the growing uterus).
- Stand with your feet balanced.
- Try to maintain stability in your pelvis by keeping knees aligned.
Spinning Babies ® encourages the principles of balance, gravity and movement. Spinning Babies offers several suggestions to practically support the integration of balance, gravity and movement in pregnancy.
The Spinning Babies ® Three Sisters of Balance ™ are perfect for support alignment and comfort in the pelvis. They can be beneficial during pregnancy and also a great tool to supporting ease in birth .
The three sister of balance ™ are:
- Reboso sifting
- Forward leaning inversion
- Side lying release
Spinning Babies ® also offers the Daily Essentials ™ providing simple practical suggestions for maintaining body balance and wellness.
Pregnancy and birth are such an exciting time. We welcome new little beings in and also have the opportunity for welcoming in new growth, learning and body awareness. With awareness comes power. Our bodies are such intelligent and powerful creatures. Our bodies have so much potential for comfort, ease and pleasure. The second article in the clever body series will cover the amazing broad ligament.
There is more wisdom in your body than there is in the deepest philosophy
Friedrich Nietzsche
Claire is a mumma, midwife, Spinning Babies ® approved trainer and Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapist. She provides care for families choosing homebirth and offers private bodywork sessions in Auckland for pregnancy, postnatal, babies or anyone wishing to have support with women’s issues. For midwifery or bodywork, Claire can be contacted at clairehomebirth@gmail.com
Claire has the honour of facilitating Spinning Babies ® workshops in New Zealand and internationally. For information on Spinning Babies workshops you can click here.
