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Groin pain during pregnancy

05.08.2019

3 min. Reading time

Pain in the groin is not a commonly mentioned complaint in pregnancy, but for many pregnant women it can complicate everyday life. The causes are usually not dangerous and do not pose a threat to pregnancy, but it is always worth seeing a doctor or physiotherapist. Find out about the most common causes of groin pain in pregnancy.

Groin pain during pregnancy – Causes

Pain in the groin area during pregnancy can occur for many different reasons. These include:Pain in the groin area during pregnancy can occur for many different reasons. These include:

  • Radiation of pain from the spinal region
  • Injury or strain to muscles and tendons
  • Appendicitis
  • Pelvic girdle pain
  • Sciatica or femoralgia
  • Lowering of the abdomen before childbirth

If the pain in the lower abdomen or groin is severe, it may be a twisted ovarian cyst, ectopic pregnancy or renal colic. In this case, the pain radiates from another location into the groin area. In most cases, however, groin pain is caused by physiological loosening of the pelvic ligaments, due in part to the effects of progesterone or relaxin. It is also the result of excessive stress on the pelvis during these 9 months.

How to deal with groin pain during pregnancy?

If the pain is not very severe and does not come on suddenly, it is best to make an appointment with a physical therapist. If the pain is very severe and accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, you should go to the emergency room immediately to rule out or confirm acute causes that require medical attention.

If the discomfort persists, the physical therapist will suggest exercises that can relieve the discomfort and strengthen the pelvic muscles. During pregnancy, the center of gravity of the expectant mother changes, so a correct posture that does not overload the spine and pelvis is very important. Nowadays, more and more women are also opting for TENS, which can successfully relieve pain in the groin area. Some pregnant women wear girdles to relieve the discomfort. Besides, experts recommend wearing flat, comfortable shoes, sleeping with a pillow between the legs, changing position frequently and avoiding standing for a long time.

 

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Groin pain and deliveries

Women who suffer from groin pain during pregnancy wonder whether this is a contraindication to natural childbirth. If the doctor sees no other indications for a cesarean section, groin pain alone is not a barrier to natural childbirth. Before delivery, ask your physical therapist about non-pharmacologic methods of pain relief and comfortable positions that can reduce additional pain during labor. In addition, pharmacologic methods for labor pain relief also help reduce pain in the groin area. The good news is that in most cases, bothersome groin pain disappears after the baby is born and is only related to the period of pregnancy.

 

 

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