Are you experiencing pelvic pain during pregnancy? Discomfort in your pubic area, groin, between your legs, in your hips, or in your lower back?
You are far from alone.
According to the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), about 1 in 5 pregnant women experience pelvic or pelvic girdle pain during their pregnancy.
These pains can appear gradually or become more pronounced as the pregnancy progresses.
Good news: there are often simple adjustments to improve daily comfort.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
What is pelvic pain during pregnancy?
When expectant mothers talk about:
- pregnancy pelvic pain
- pregnancy pubic pain
- pain between legs pregnancy
- pregnancy groin pain
- sore pelvis during pregnancy
they are often referring to pain located around the pelvis.
This discomfort can be felt:
- in the pubic area
- in the groin
- in the hips
- in the lower back
- between the legs
- sometimes extending to the thighs
Some women describe it more as:
- a feeling of pressure
- discomfort when walking
- pain when turning over in bed
- a feeling of an unstable pelvis
Why do you have pelvic pain during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the body changes rapidly.
Several factors can explain this pain:
- gradual increase in belly weight
- postural changes
- changes in the center of gravity
- increased stress on the pelvis and back
- increased mobility in certain areas of the pelvis
These changes can make certain activities more difficult.
For example:
- climbing stairs
- walking for long periods
- standing for long periods
- getting into the car
- carrying a child
- sleeping in certain positions
What are the frequent symptoms?
Pregnancy pelvic pain can manifest differently.
Commonly described symptoms include:
- pubic pain during pregnancy
- pain between legs during pregnancy
- groin pain during pregnancy
- hip pain
- pain when walking
- pain when turning over in bed
- discomfort when climbing stairs
- a feeling of a heavy pelvis
- pain that is stronger in the evening
Some women only feel mild discomfort.
Others may experience more difficulty with daily activities.
How to improve daily comfort?
1. Change position regularly
Standing or sitting for too long can sometimes worsen pain.
Try to alternate:
- gentle walking
- rest periods
- frequent position changes
The goal is not immobility.
The goal is to find a balance.
2. Limit certain movements that aggravate the pain
Some women notice more discomfort with:
- repeated stair climbing
- sudden movements
- standing on one leg
- heavy lifting
- long periods of standing
Adjusting certain movements can sometimes help.
3. Keep legs closer together during certain movements
Getting into the car.
Getting out of bed.
Getting dressed.
These movements can sometimes be more comfortable when done more gradually.
4. Better support the belly daily
As the belly gets heavier, some women find that extra support improves their daily comfort, especially when standing or moving.
A maternity belt should not be considered a medical treatment.
However, it can contribute to the comfort of some expectant mothers.
5. Improve support during sleep
Nighttime can be particularly difficult.
Sleeping on your side with:
- a pillow between your legs
- support under your belly
- better pelvic support
can improve the comfort of some women.
A pregnancy pillow or nursing pillow can help distribute pressure better.
→ See also: How to sleep without pain during pregnancy?
6. Seek advice early
If the pain becomes regular or bothersome:
- midwife
- doctor
- physiotherapist trained in pregnancy
can help adapt daily movements.
Warning signs: when to seek medical attention quickly?
Even if these pains are common, certain situations require prompt medical attention.
Seek medical attention quickly if:
✓ sudden or very intense pain
✓ significant difficulty walking
✓ regular contractions
✓ bleeding
✓ fever
✓ fluid loss
✓ unusual pain on one side only
✓ associated urinary symptoms
✓ a feeling that "something is wrong"
When in doubt, it is always best to seek advice.
Is it dangerous for the baby?
Pelvic pain related to the mechanical adaptations of pregnancy is generally not dangerous for the baby.
However, it can have a significant impact on:
- sleep
- mobility
- work
- quality of life
Therefore, it should not be minimized.
How long does this pain last?
Many women notice an improvement after childbirth.
However:
- some pain may persist for some time
- recovery varies from woman to woman
- follow-up may be helpful if symptoms persist
What products can help with comfort?
At Confort Enceinte, we favor a simple approach:
improve comfort without promising the impossible.
Some expectant mothers appreciate:
- maternity support belts
- pregnancy pillows
- sleep support solutions
These products do not replace medical advice.
They can simply contribute to daily comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it normal to have pelvic pain during pregnancy?
Yes, these pains are common during pregnancy. However, they may require medical attention if they become significant.
Why do I have pain between my legs when pregnant?
Some pelvic pain can be felt in the groin, pubic area, or between the legs.
Why does it hurt more at night?
Changes in position, fatigue, and lack of support can accentuate certain pains.
Can a maternity belt help?
Some women find that it improves their comfort, especially as the belly gets heavier.
In summary
Pregnancy pelvic pain is common.
It can affect:
- the pubic area
- the hips
- the groin
- the lower back
- between the legs
Simple adaptations can sometimes improve comfort:
✓ better belly support
✓ improved sleep
✓ adapting certain movements
✓ seeking advice quickly if necessary
Sources consulted:
- Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG)
- Pelvic Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP)
- Cochrane Reviews
- European Spine Journal
- guidelines for the management of pregnancy-related pelvic pain
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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