4 Common Aches & Pains to Expect During Pregnancy

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Women experience a variety of symptoms throughout pregnancy. Fatigue and morning sickness is common, but it is also normal to experience aching or discomfort throughout the body. Learn more below about the main types of pain or tension you can expect while you are pregnant. With this information in mind, you can create a plan to relieve your symptoms. Having an awareness of each sensation will also help you know when it is time to talk to your doctor.

Lower Back Pain
During your pregnancy, discuss any unexpected pains with your doctor. This is especially true if you feel the sensations in your lower body. While every symptom should be taken seriously, many are no reason for alarm. A common type of ache and pain, while you are pregnant, is lower back pain. Some of the most common causes of lower back pain in pregnancy include weight gain and posture changes. While extra weight is necessary to support a growing baby, it can make the spine and lumbar area more susceptible to discomfort. A large uterus and a shift in alignment throughout your body can cause you to stand, walk, or sit differently.

For some women, hormone changes are to blame. Ligaments naturally loosen in the pelvic area during pregnancy to help make way for the baby, but they can also cause the spine to become more unstable than usual. It is also possible for stress, worry, or anxiety to lead to spasms in the back.

To help relieve your lower back pain and cramps, stay active. Stretching and low-impact exercises can help to keep your core strong and your muscles limber. If you are worried or experiencing a low mood, try seeing a counselor or therapist. Other possible strategies include heat therapy, laser light therapy belts, and chiropractic care. Each of these therapies should be safe for women to use on their back, but it is important to research your options and talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Leg Cramps
According to What to Expect, cramping in the legs is a common symptom in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Some women experience them more at night. It is not entirely known why they occur, but obstetricians think it could be due to fatigue in the legs from carrying extra weight. Compression of the blood vessels could also possibly lead to tension and cramping.

Some doctors prescribe vitamins and minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, to help with the discomfort. Others chalk it up to pregnancy-related hormones and advise strategies for relieving aching muscles and relaxing your lower body. Stretching your legs, ankles, and toes can help to end cramps and reduce sharp pain. You may also find relief from a cold compress. Find an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables, then wrap it in a towel. Place it on the area for 10-20 minutes at a time to help stop spasms.

Headaches
There are many reasons for headaches during pregnancy. In the first trimester, a rise in hormones and blood volume are often to blame for making your head hurt. Some women also get them in the first few weeks from caffeine withdrawal. Throughout your pregnancy, watch your stress levels. While Healthline says that some stress is normal, extreme levels of worry or anxiety can possibly lead to complications throughout pregnancy, infancy, or childhood. At the same time, stress can also contribute to the development of migraines and head pain.

Make sure you drink plenty of water, which will help to prevent dehydration-related headaches. Other ways to prevent symptoms include getting enough sleep and making sure you eat healthy meals and snacks. If you still do not know why your head is hurting, consider your posture and spinal alignment. Talk to your OB-GYN or midwife to see which treatments may be available for headaches related to upper back pain.

Round Ligament Pain
One of the most common reasons for a sharp or stabbing feeling in the groin or belly area is called round ligament pain. Several ligaments support your uterus while you are pregnant, including your round ligament. When it stretches, becomes strained, or tightens quickly, you may feel a quick jabbing. It is also possible to feel ligament spasms.

This condition is most common in the second trimester, but you can also experience its symptoms in the other two trimesters of pregnancy. Some women feel it the most when they are exercising, laughing, or sneezing. It is also possible to experience stronger symptoms when you cough or stand up too quickly. Round ligament pain is harmless to you and your baby, but it is still painful and uncomfortable. To help relieve the aches, avoid sudden movements. Heat therapy can also be helpful but talk to your doctor before applying a heating pad or taking a warm bath. Certain stretches and yoga poses can also help keep your core strong and relieve discomfort. Ask your obstetrician about the exercises that are best for you.

Relieving Aches and Pains During Pregnancy
Aches and pains are common during pregnancy, but you do not have to live in discomfort. Make the most of your time preparing for your baby by creating a safe and reliable plan for your pain relief. Each of the solutions above are a few ways to care for your body without the use of prescription medications. Consulting with your doctor ensures you are able to relieve your symptoms while best caring for your baby.