Tailbone Pain in Pregnancy: 9 Ways to Relieve 1-in-3 Pregnant Women

Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

Tailbone pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting up to 33% of pregnant women. It can range from a mild ache to a sharp, debilitating pain. The pain is usually felt in the lower back, just above the buttocks.

There are a number of causes of tailbone pain during pregnancy. The most common cause is the hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, which can cause the ligaments around the tailbone to relax and become more flexible. This can lead to instability of the tailbone and pain.

Other causes of tailbone pain during pregnancy include:

• The growing uterus: As the uterus grows, it can put pressure on the tailbone, causing pain.
• The baby's position: The baby's position can also affect tailbone pain. If the baby is in a posterior position (facing the mother's back), it can put more pressure on the tailbone.
• Labor: Labor can also cause tailbone pain, especially if the baby is delivered in a forceps or vacuum delivery.

Symptoms of Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

The symptoms of tailbone pain during pregnancy can vary from woman to woman. Some women may only experience mild discomfort, while others may have severe pain that makes it difficult to sit or walk.

Common symptoms of tailbone pain during pregnancy include:

• A dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back, just above the buttocks
• Pain that worsens when sitting or walking
• Pain that radiates down the legs
• Numbness or tingling in the legs
• Difficulty having bowel movements

Treatment for Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

There are a number of things that you can do to relieve tailbone pain during pregnancy. Some of the most effective treatments include:

• Rest: Resting on your side or with a pillow between your knees can help to relieve pressure on the tailbone.
• Heat or cold: Applying heat or cold to the tailbone can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Massage: Massaging the muscles around the tailbone can help to relieve tension and pain.
• Stretching: Stretching the muscles around the tailbone can help to improve flexibility and reduce pain.
• Exercises: There are a number of exercises that you can do to strengthen the muscles around the tailbone and relieve pain.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Pelvic floor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles that support the tailbone and reduce pain.
• Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve flexibility and range of motion around the tailbone and reduce pain.
• Medication: In some cases, your doctor may recommend taking medication to relieve tailbone pain.

Prevention of Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

There are a number of things that you can do to prevent tailbone pain during pregnancy. Some of the most effective preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight: Maintaining a healthy weight during pregnancy can help to reduce the risk of tailbone pain.
• Exercising regularly: Exercising regularly during pregnancy can help to strengthen the muscles around the tailbone and reduce the risk of pain.
• Wearing comfortable shoes: Wearing comfortable shoes with good arch support can help to reduce the risk of tailbone pain.
• Avoiding prolonged sitting: Avoiding prolonged sitting can help to reduce the risk of tailbone pain.
• Using a pregnancy pillow: Using a pregnancy pillow can help to support the tailbone and reduce the risk of pain.

When to See a Doctor

If you are experiencing tailbone pain during pregnancy, it is important to see your doctor to rule out any other potential causes of pain. Your doctor can also recommend the best course of treatment for your specific situation.

Conclusion

Tailbone pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, but it can usually be relieved with simple treatments. If you are experiencing tailbone pain, talk to your doctor about the best course of treatment for you.