Hip pain is a common complaint amongst pregnant women, especially in the final stages of pregnancy. There isn’t sufficient information on hip pain during pregnancy. In this article we try to provide as much information as we can, that will help you in coping and treating hip pains during pregnancy.
Causes of Hip Pain during Pregnancy
During pregnancy there is an increased level of hormones in the body which softens and relaxes the muscles and joints. This happens because your body is preparing itself for labor and delivery. The hormone relaxin is responsible for relaxing of the muscles and ligaments. Because of these changes, some women may experience hip pain during the last trimester of their pregnancy. Some women may also be very susceptible to injury.
As your pregnancy progresses, your uterus will expand and grow and thus your posture will change to adjust to your growing tummy. The big belly can sometimes put pressure on your pelvic causing hip pain during pregnancy.
Treating Hip Pain during Pregnancy
Usually hip pain will subside after delivery. In any case, if you are experiencing hip pain during pregnancy, here are some tips that will help relieve hip pain during pregnancy.
- Many women experience hip pain while sleeping. This is because of poor sleeping posture or because of no support surrounding the pelvis. You can use a maternity pillow or a full body support pillow while sleeping. Or you could use a cushion between your legs and under your waist while sleeping on the left side, for an optimal position.
- Try to keep shifting from one hip to another while sleeping, to reduce any hip pain that occurs during pregnancy.
- Many activities such as exercising, walking and bending can aggravate your hip pain. In such a scenario, consult your doctor and ask for exercises that is safe to do during pregnancy. Walking is usually recommended during pregnancy, but this will not suit a woman suffering from hip pain.
- Visit a chiropractor. He will give the right advice during your pregnancy. Sometimes your pelvis may be uneven and so it may require a gentle manipulation which can be corrected by your chiropractor. A chiropractor can also help with other discomforts such as headaches and back pains associated with pregnancy. Make sure you visit a chiropractor who is well known and experienced.
- Massages can be very helpful in relieving symptoms of hip pain during pregnancy. Therapeutic massages are much more beneficial than the relaxation massages that are available at spas. You can also use a cold and hot compress alternatively on the affected area.
- Yoga and pilates are also proven to be helpful in relieving hip pain during pregnancy. You can join some prenatal yoga or pilates classes and ask the instructor to show you some postures that will help you with the hip pain. Remember to take things easy, because the aim here is provide relief and not further pain.
Hip pain during pregnancy is also common in overweight females, thus it is important to control your weight before you get pregnant. These tips will surely help you during pregnancy, especially if you are suffering from hip pain.
