Round Ligament Pian

What is it? 

A sharp, stabbing like feeling in the lower belly or deep groin area. Most common in pregnancy during second trimester as the uterus/womb is stretching, however it can be present at any stage of your pregnancy journey. Pain is usually felt with sudden movement such as, rolling in bed, getting out of the car or with a sudden twist of the pelvis. This is one of the most common pains in pregnancy and considered very normal.  

Where is the Round ligament?

The round ligament connects the uterus to the groin and it supports the uterus/womb as it grows during pregnancy. You have two round ligaments, one supporting on the right and one on the left. As baby grows these ligaments stretches and depending on the rapid growth of baby these ligaments may become strained. Sudden movement can also cause these ligaments to tighten quickly to provide support for the uterus. This is what can sometime cause the sudden quick sharp and stabbing feeling. 

Common Symptoms:

-       Sharp pain in the lower belly or groin region

-       Spasm in the belly

-       More common on the right side, but can happen on both sides

-       The pain only last for a few seconds

-       You may feel this pain with: coughing, sneezing, laughing, rolling over in bed, standing up too quickly or any sudden twisting in the pelvis or the trunk.

How can a physio help?

-       Taping: We can help by taping the belly which provides the ligaments with some extra support. This can be especially helpful if you feel your belly is hanging a bit too low.  

-       Advice on belly band or supportive garments: We can help determine if you need a belly band or a supportive garment like the SRC short for extra support around the belly. We measure you and make sure you are fitted with the correct size.

-       Activity modification: We can also teach you how to modify some of the movements and exercises you are doing that causing the pain, to help decrease symptoms.  

-       Exercises: There are also specific exercises you can do to help gently strength the core muscle and the muscles around the pelvis to help support the growth of baby. Making sure your muscles and your tendons feel strong. Exercises will not only improve the strength, they will also help reduce symptoms.

To book an appointment with one of our Pelvic Floor Physiotherapists click here.  

Written by Catalina Verjan