Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy
Round ligament pain is a common discomfort experienced during pregnancy, especially as the body begins to change and grow. Many expecting mothers notice sharp or pulling sensations in the lower abdomen, groin, or hip area, which often leads them to search for relief from round ligament pain.
Understanding why round ligament pain occurs and how the body adapts during pregnancy can help moms feel more confident in finding supportive care.
What Is Round Ligament Pain?
The round ligaments are bands of tissue that support the uterus as it grows. During pregnancy, these ligaments stretch and adapt to accommodate changes in size, posture, and weight distribution.
Round ligament pain is often described as:
A sharp or pulling sensation
Pain in the lower abdomen or groin
Discomfort that occurs with movement such as standing, rolling in bed, or coughing
While round ligament pain is common, it can still be uncomfortable and disruptive.
Common Causes of Round Ligament Pain
Round ligament pain usually develops due to a combination of factors rather than one single cause.
– Rapid Uterine Growth
As the uterus grows, the round ligaments must stretch and adapt. Sudden movements can place quick tension on these ligaments, leading to discomfort.
– Postural Changes During Pregnancy
As posture shifts forward with a growing belly, tension patterns can change throughout the pelvis and abdomen. Poor posture or difficulty adapting to these changes can increase strain on the round ligaments.
– Pelvic Imbalance or Asymmetry
When the pelvis is not moving or stabilizing evenly, one side of the round ligament may experience more tension than the other. This imbalance can contribute to one sided or recurring pain.
– Increased Ligament Laxity
Pregnancy hormones increase ligament flexibility throughout the body. While this is normal, it can reduce stability and cause surrounding muscles and ligaments to work harder, increasing discomfort.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help With Round Ligament Pain
Chiropractic care during pregnancy focuses on supporting posture, pelvic movement, and nervous system function as the body adapts.
Pregnancy chiropractic care may help by:
Supporting balanced pelvic and spinal biomechanics
Improving posture and movement patterns
Reducing uneven tension placed on the round ligaments
Helping the body adapt more efficiently to pregnancy changes
Chiropractors trained in prenatal care use gentle and specific techniques that are safe and appropriate throughout pregnancy.
The Role of the Webster Technique
The Webster Technique is a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment focused on improving neuro biomechanical function of the sacrum and pelvis.
During pregnancy, the Webster Technique may help by:
Supporting balanced pelvic function
Reducing tension in surrounding muscles and ligaments
Improving how the pelvis adapts to uterine growth
It is important to understand that the Webster Technique does not treat the uterus or baby directly. Instead, it focuses on optimizing pelvic mechanics, which can help reduce stress on structures such as the round ligaments.
Supporting Round Ligament Comfort Alongside Chiropractic Care
Many moms find additional relief when chiropractic care is combined with supportive daily habits, such as:
Moving slowly during position changes
Using pillows for side sleeping support
Being mindful of posture throughout the day
Avoiding sudden twisting movements
Chiropractic care helps create a foundation for better movement and balance, making these strategies more effective.
When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Round Ligament Pain
It may be helpful to seek chiropractic care for round ligament pain if:
Pain is persistent or worsening
Discomfort limits daily movement
Pain is primarily on one side
Postural changes increase symptoms
Early support can help reduce strain as pregnancy progresses.
Final Thoughts
Round ligament pain is a common part of pregnancy as the body adapts to growth, posture changes, and ligament flexibility. While common, it does not have to be ignored.
Chiropractic care, including the Webster Technique, focuses on supporting pelvic balance and biomechanics to help reduce stress on the round ligaments. With gentle, pregnancy appropriate care, many moms find improved comfort and confidence throughout pregnancy.