Round Ligament Pain in Pregnancy (And What Helps)

If you’ve felt a sudden sharp pull in your lower belly or groin during pregnancy, you are not alone. Round ligament pain is one of the most common “wait, what was that?” pregnancy symptoms.

It can feel intense in the moment, and it often shows up out of nowhere. The good news is, most of the time it is a normal part of your body making space for your growing baby.

Let’s talk about what it is, why it happens, and what can actually help.

What Is Round Ligament Pain?

Round ligaments are bands of tissue that help support your uterus. They stretch from the uterus down toward the groin area.

As your uterus grows, these ligaments stretch and thicken to support the extra weight. That stretching can cause quick, sharp pain or a pulling sensation, especially with sudden movements.

Round ligament pain is most common in the second trimester, but it can continue into the third trimester too.

What Does It Feel Like?

Round ligament pain often feels like:

• A sharp tug or stabbing sensation on one or both sides of the lower belly

• Pain that happens when you stand up quickly

• Discomfort with rolling over in bed

• A pulling feeling during coughing, sneezing, or laughing

• A sore or achy groin after a long day

It usually lasts only a few seconds, even though it can be surprisingly strong.

Why It Happens

Pregnancy changes your body fast. Here are a few reasons round ligament pain shows up:

• Your uterus is growing upward and outward

• Hormones relax your joints and connective tissue

• Your posture and center of gravity shift

• Baby’s position and movement can add pressure

• Sudden movements stretch the ligaments quickly

This is your body adapting, not failing.

What Helps Round Ligament Pain?

Round ligament pain can’t always be prevented, but small changes can make it feel much more manageable.

Here are a few simple starting points:

• Move slowly with position changes
  Standing up, rolling over, and twisting gently can reduce that sharp pulling feeling.

• Support your belly when you sneeze or cough
  Lightly holding your bump can take strain off the ligaments.

• Use pillows for hip and pelvic support at night
  A pillow between your knees often helps with comfort and alignment.

• Try gentle warmth or a warm shower
  Heat can relax surrounding muscles and ease tension.

If pain is frequent or interfering with daily life, hands-on support, body balancing, and personalized positioning can make a big difference. This is something I work on with clients throughout pregnancy and birth prep.

When to Call Your Provider

Round ligament pain is common, but always reach out if you notice:

• Pain that is constant or severe

• Bleeding

• Fever

• Burning with urination

• Regular cramping that does not improve with rest

• Decreased baby movement later in pregnancy

You never need to guess alone.

A Gentle Reminder

Round ligament pain can be uncomfortable, but it is usually a normal sign of your body stretching and making room. Pregnancy asks so much of your ligaments, joints, and muscles. You are doing real work.

If you want help with body balancing, comfort techniques, or learning what’s normal, I would love to support you.

You don’t have to figure it out by yourself.

Ready for More Support?

If you’re pregnant in Traverse City or Northern Michigan and want steady, evidence-based support through pregnancy, birth, or postpartum, I’d love to connect.