99 Pregnancy Pains: Tailbone Hurting?

Tailbone Hurting During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time of great change and growth, both for the mother and the baby. As the baby grows, the mother's body goes through a number of changes to accommodate the new life. These changes can include weight gain, fluid retention, and hormonal changes. All of these changes can put stress on the mother's body, leading to pain in various areas, including the tailbone.

What is the tailbone?

The tailbone, or coccyx, is a small bone located at the base of the spine. It is made up of four fused vertebrae. The tailbone is responsible for providing support to the pelvic floor muscles and for helping to stabilize the pelvis.

Why does the tailbone hurt during pregnancy?

There are several reasons why the tailbone can hurt during pregnancy. These include:

• Weight gain: As the baby grows, the mother gains weight. This weight gain can put pressure on the tailbone, causing pain.
• Fluid retention: Fluid retention is a common problem during pregnancy. This fluid can build up in the tissues around the tailbone, causing pain and swelling.
• Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the ligaments and muscles around the tailbone to relax. This can make the tailbone more vulnerable to pain.
• Changes in the pelvic floor muscles: The pelvic floor muscles are a group of muscles that support the bladder, rectum, and uterus. These muscles can weaken during pregnancy, which can lead to pain in the tailbone.

How can I relieve tailbone pain during pregnancy?

There are a number of things that can be done to relieve tailbone pain during pregnancy. These include:

• Rest: Rest is one of the best ways to relieve tailbone pain. Avoid sitting for long periods of time and get up and move around every few hours.
• Ice: Ice can help to reduce inflammation and pain. Apply an ice pack to the tailbone for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day.
• Heat: Heat can also help to relieve pain. Apply a warm compress to the tailbone for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day.
• Sitz baths: Sitz baths can help to relax the muscles around the tailbone. Fill a bathtub with warm water and sit in the tub for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times per day.
• Pelvic floor exercises: Pelvic floor exercises can help to strengthen the muscles around the tailbone. These exercises can be done by contracting the pelvic floor muscles for 5 seconds and then relaxing them for 5 seconds. Repeat this exercise 10-15 times, several times per day.
• Pregnancy support belt: A pregnancy support belt can help to support the pelvis and reduce pressure on the tailbone.
• Prenatal massage: Prenatal massage can help to relax the muscles around the tailbone and relieve pain.

When should I see a doctor?

If you have tailbone pain that is severe or does not improve with home treatment, you should see a doctor. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy, chiropractic care, or other treatments to help relieve pain.

Outlook

Most cases of tailbone pain during pregnancy will resolve after delivery. However, some women may continue to experience tailbone pain after pregnancy. If you have persistent tailbone pain after pregnancy, talk to your doctor about treatment options.

Hot Search: Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy 2025

According to a 2019 study published in the journal "Obstetrics & Gynecology," tailbone pain is a common problem during pregnancy, affecting up to 25% of pregnant women. The study found that tailbone pain is more common in women who are overweight or obese, and in women who have a history of back pain.

If you are experiencing tailbone pain during pregnancy, there are a number of things you can do to relieve the pain. These include rest, ice, heat, sitz baths, pelvic floor exercises, and pregnancy support belts. If your pain is severe or does not improve with home treatment, you should see a doctor.

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