Hip Pain During Pregnancy – How To Manage It

Pregnancy is really blissful for females who are willing to become mothers. Due to some physical changes in the body, it becomes a problem for some of you. And to manage it, you usually see an expert and discuss your hip pain during pregnancy. Your doctor is the right person to help you. Here are some crucial things that you should know about it at your end:

What is hip pain?  

Hip pain is discomfort or pain felt in or around the hip joint. The hip joint is one of the largest joints in the body and is responsible for connecting the thigh bone (femur) to the pelvis.

Causes of hip pain during pregnancy 

Hip pain during pregnancy is a common condition, particularly during the second and third trimesters. As per experts of the best IVF centre, the following are some of the possible causes of hip pain during pregnancy:

• Relaxin hormone: During pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which helps to loosen the ligaments and joints in preparation for childbirth. This can cause instability in the hips and lead to pain.
• Weight gain: As the baby grows, the woman’s body weight also increases. The additional weight can put pressure on the hips and cause pain.
• Posture changes: As the pregnancy progresses, the woman’s centre of gravity shifts forward, which can cause her to lean backward and put extra pressure on the hips.
• Sciatica: As the uterus expands, it can put pressure on the sciatic nerve, causing pain that radiates down the leg and into the hip.
• Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD): This is a condition in which the pelvic bones become unstable and cause pain in the hips and pubic area.
• Round ligament pain: As the uterus grows, the round ligaments that support it can become stretched, causing pain in the hips and lower abdomen.

How to manage hip pain during pregnancy

Managing hip pain during pregnancy involves a combination of self-care measures and medical treatment. Here are some ways to alleviate hip pain during pregnancy:

• Exercise: Gentle exercises such as walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can help to strengthen the muscles around the hip joint and alleviate pain.
• Rest and change position: Taking frequent breaks and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can help to reduce pressure on the hips. Changing position frequently while sleeping can also help to alleviate pain.
• Heat or ice therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
• Massage: Gentle massage can help to loosen tight muscles and reduce pain.
• Supportive clothing: Wearing supportive clothing such as a pregnancy support belt can help to distribute the weight of the baby and reduce pressure on the hips.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture may be helpful in reducing hip pain during pregnancy. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any complementary therapy.
• Medications: Pain relievers such as acetaminophen may be recommended by a healthcare provider in some cases. However, it is important to avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen during pregnancy unless advised by a healthcare provider.

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It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if hip pain persists or becomes severe. They can help to determine the underlying cause of the pain and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Conclusion 

Hip pain during pregnancy is a common issue for females. Having an idea about its causes and managing tips can help you a lot. However, consulting your doctor and following his/her instructions is crucial for you.