Round Ligament Pain in Pregnancy
Prenatal Chiropractor in Lenexa, KS | Your Family Chiropractic
What Is Round Ligament Pain?
Round ligament pain is a common yet often misunderstood type of pregnancy discomfort. The round ligaments are two strong bands of connective tissue that hold and support the uterus on each side of your pelvis. As your baby grows, these ligaments stretch and thicken to accommodate the uterus.
When the ligaments become tight, strained, or imbalanced, many women feel sharp, sudden pain in the lower abdomen, groin, hips, or pelvis—especially during movement.
What Round Ligament Pain Feels Like
Round ligament pain can vary from mild to intense and usually feels like:
A sharp, stabbing, or pulling pain on one or both sides of the lower belly
A tight, stretching sensation in the groin or hip area
Twinges or zingers when rolling over in bed, coughing, sneezing, or standing up quickly
A dull ache or heaviness that lingers after physical activity
Some expecting mothers notice it early in the second trimester when the uterus begins to expand rapidly, while others feel it later as the baby’s position and size change.
While it’s a common part of pregnancy, persistent or intense round ligament pain can signal that your pelvis or spine is under excess tension—something chiropractic care can gently and effectively address.
Why Round Ligament Pain Happens
Several factors contribute to round ligament pain, including:
Pelvic misalignment or imbalance placing uneven tension on the ligaments
Rapid growth of the uterus during the second trimester
Postural changes as your center of gravity shifts forward
Sudden movements or twisting motions
Stress or tension in surrounding muscles and ligaments
Hormonal changes, such as the release of relaxin, which softens ligaments and joints
How Round Ligament Pain Affects Pregnancy and Birth
Tight or imbalanced ligaments don’t just cause discomfort—they can also affect how your uterus sits in the pelvis. This can influence baby’s positioning, pelvic mobility, and overall comfort during pregnancy and labor.
When the pelvis or ligaments are restricted, the uterus can be pulled slightly off-center, limiting space for baby to move freely and potentially contributing to longer, more difficult labors.
How to Prevent or Reduce Round Ligament Pain
While it’s not always avoidable, there are simple, holistic ways to reduce tension and prevent flare-ups:
Move mindfully: Avoid sudden twisting or jerky movements.
Change positions slowly: Roll to your side before standing up or getting out of bed.
Stretch daily: Gentle pelvic tilts, cat-cow, and hip circles can maintain flexibility.
Use support: A maternity support belt can reduce strain on the abdomen and pelvis.
Stay hydrated: Proper hydration keeps tissues more supple and reduces cramping.
Incorporate gentle chiropractic care: Regular adjustments keep the pelvis balanced and ligaments functioning properly.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Relieve Round Ligament Pain
At Your Family Chiropractic, we specialize in prenatal care designed to support the changing body of an expecting mother.
Our gentle, specific adjustments relieve tension in the pelvis and surrounding ligaments, helping your body adapt to pregnancy comfortably.
Through chiropractic care, we help:
Restore balance and movement in the pelvis and lower spine
Reduce stress and tightness on the round ligaments
Improve nervous system function for better communication and healing
Support optimal fetal positioning by maintaining pelvic symmetry
Encourage comfort, mobility, and ease throughout pregnancy
When to See a Prenatal Chiropractor for Round Ligament Pain
You don’t need to wait for severe pain to begin care. Chiropractic care is safe and effective throughout all stages of pregnancy, but you may especially benefit if you notice:
Sharp or aching pain in the lower belly, hips, or groin
Discomfort when rolling over or standing up
Tightness that limits your mobility or comfort
Persistent ligament pain that affects daily activities
Ready to Feel Relief From Round Ligament Pain in Your Pregnancy?
You deserve to move, rest, and enjoy pregnancy without pain holding you back.
Book your prenatal chiropractic appointment today with our caring team at Your Family Chiropractic and experience gentle, specific care designed to help you feel balanced, comfortable, and confident as your body grows and prepares for birth.