Along with all the joys pregnancy brings, come a myriad of aches and pains. For some pregnant women, pregnancy is a blissful time. Unfortunately, it is more common for pregnant women to feel uncomfortable, tired, and achy.
During my pregnancies, I remember feeling so uncomfortable I could not wait until my baby was born just so I would start to feel like myself again. I was also one of the poor pregnant ladies who had inner thigh pain pregnancy issues. Let me tell you what I learned.
Types of Pregnancy Aches
Once you get past morning sickness, you still may have to deal with a variety of other pregnancy aches and pains. With your body going through so many changes during pregnancy, it is understandable to experience some aches and pains. Most of these types of pains are completely normal, but because they may be things you have never felt, it makes sense that you will be worried. But, try not to worry!
It is common for pregnant women to have back aches throughout their pregnancies. As your belly grows, your back may ache from carrying around all that extra weight during the day. Due to the extra weight, some women also experience leg cramping. Additionally, one of the weirder pregnancy related aches is in women’s wrists like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other Pregnancy Pains
Another unusual pain during pregnancy is sciatica. This feels like sharp, shooting pains that radiate from the back or buttocks down through the back of your legs. Pregnant moms may also experience ligament pain. These pains are either sharp or dull aches alongside your lower abdomen. These pains tend to occur beginning in the second trimester as your ligaments grow and stretch to accommodate your uterus.
What Causes Inner Thigh Pain?
In addition to all the aches and pains we’ve already discussed, some moms (like myself) deal with inner thigh pain during pregnancy. Most often, pregnant women notice this inner thigh pain as it moves from their pelvis area down their legs. You may notice this pain when you shift your legs or walk.
There is a big possibility you may be experiencing symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD). This scary sounding medical term is a somewhat common occurrence in pregnancy. However, SPD is a result of pelvic issues. You may be feeling inner thigh pain due to pelvic issues with the pain radiating downwards.
What is SPD?
According to Baby Centre, “Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) is a problem with the pelvis. Your pelvis is mainly formed of two pubic bones that curve round to make a cradle shape. The pubic bones meet at the front of your pelvis, at a firm joint called the symphysis pubis […] During pregnancy, swelling and pain can make the symphysis pubis joint less stable, causing SPD.”
SPD occurs during pregnancy because your body is producing the hormone relaxin to help your baby move through the pelvis at birth. This hormone makes the joints in your body looser. If your body does not respond well to the looser ligaments, then you may experience SPD.
What Does Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction Feel Like?
Most commonly, symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD) causes pain in the groin or pubic area. However, moms may also experience back pain or pain in their legs and inner thighs. The pain may increase when women walk or shift their legs (such as going up and down stairs or getting in and out of vehicles). Typically, the pain worsens at night making sleep difficult.
Ways to Relieve SPD
For pregnant women dealing with SPD, it is very uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are some ways to find relief. Some women find relief by gently exercising and strengthening their pelvic muscles. Other women find relief through acupuncture. Another common tool for pain management is using a pelvic support belt. This is a girdle-like belt that you wear when you are active or moving. There is, of course, also the usual pain relief that can be taken. But it's always best to speak to your doctor about this, as there may be some things you are advised not to use whilst you are pregnant. For instance, delta 8 is used by some people as a way of relieving their pain - however, it is generally advised not to be used when pregnant. If you aren't pregnant, then by all means head to shops near you to buy some, but you should probably use an alternative if you are.
Women suffering from SPD should pay attention to their bodies and not push themselves. For example, try to avoid sitting in positions that will cause pelvic pain. Rest regularly. When you rest (especially when sleeping), you should place a pillow between your knees.
To Wrap Up
While inner thigh pain and SPD is not any fun, you will most likely feel like physical self soon after your baby is born. Most moms who experienced SPD during pregnancy recovered a few weeks or months after giving birth.
If you are worried that you may be suffering from symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) because you are experiencing pain in your inner thighs and pelvic area, you should content your healthcare provider. Your doctor will be able to advise you on ways to safely manage pain.
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