Pelvic Pain in pregnancy - whats normal/ whats abnormal and when to call the midwife

As midwives we have many discussions with women and take many phone calls on our triage line regarding specific types of pain women generally feel in pregnancy. BUUUUUT we want to break it down for you on what to be concerned about and what is normal physiological pain/stretching that can occur in pregnancy. 

So, whats normal to experience? 

Round ligament pain

 These are the main ligaments that support your uterus (womb) that is ever expanding due to the growing fetus. This can sometimes feel like a sharp pain in your abdomen, or lower abdomen/hip/groin area. Sometimes you may feel this on one side or on both sides. Most common during your second trimester.

Pelvic Girdle Pain 

It’s really common, 1 in 5 women experience PGP/SPD in their pregnancy. This pain is usually felt in the pelvis, lower back/hips or thighs. Sometime it can be associated with a constant dull ache, or shooting pain as if being kicked when moving your legs apart, or a grinding session in the pelvic area.  

Usually women note that there is difficulty standing/ sitting / getting out of the bed in the morning / walking up stairs. 

Good remedies for this is to try and keep your legs together, so when you’re getting out of bed roll onto your side and then sit up rather than using your legs to get up. Pregnancy pillows are great for finding comfort when you’re trying to rest - T-Pillows we recommend. Use our code BLOOM20 for a discount. Pelvic support belts are great to also help support that pressure throughout pregnancy.  

*Check out our other blogs/ video on differences between contractions and Braxton Hicks contractions. 

When you should call your midwife?

-> If you are experiencing pain that is not being managed well with pain relief such as paracetamol/warm baths, contact your midwife.

->Any bleeding vaginally contact your midwife.

->Your waters have gone, contact your midwife.

->Contractions that have continued and are not getting any better with pain relief, contact your midwife. If you experience contractions before 37 weeks pregnant call your midwife as soon as you start feeling them.

->You have noticed baby’s movements have changed, contact your midwife immediately.

-> Pain passing urine, blood in your urine, contact your midwife.

->changes in your vaginal discharge, more offensive smell, changes in colour, pain/itchy around your vagina. Contact your midwife.  

*Remember the link at the bottom to locate your nearest maternity unit (even if you are away from home, travelling in the UK, you can attend any maternity unit - just ensure you bring your maternity notes with you)

Still unsure, can book in a consultation call with us midwives to discuss in further detail: 

https://calendly.com/thebloomcollaboration/60-min-1-1-consultation

https://calendly.com/thebloomcollaboration/30min