Round Ligament Pain Complete Guide
If you are experiencing round ligament pain during pregnancy, you are far from alone. Aches and persistent discomfort are among the most common pregnancy complaints. This Nub Hub UK guide explains what causes round ligament pain, what helps, and the warning signs that mean you should contact your midwife or GP.
What causes it?
Pregnancy releases a hormone called relaxin, which loosens ligaments and joints for birth. Your centre of gravity shifts as your bump grows, extra weight loads muscles and nerves, and blood volume rises by nearly 50%. In pregnancy these changes can start before you even show, because hormones shift fast and your body is already working hard.
What does it feel like?
Every person experiences round ligament pain differently. Common descriptions include a dull ache, sharp shooting pain, throbbing, stiffness, numbness or pressure. It may be constant or come and go with movement or position changes. Noting when it happens and what eases it helps your midwife advise you.
Safe relief at home
Most round ligament pain in pregnancy can be managed with simple, pregnancy-safe self-care. Combine several approaches for the best results.
1. Rest and position changes
Lie on your left side where possible, use a pregnancy support pillow between your knees, and change position regularly rather than staying in one posture too long.
2. Warmth and gentle stretching
A warm (not hot) compress or bath eases tense muscles. Pair this with gentle stretching advised by your midwife or a pregnancy physiotherapist, never pushing into sharp pain.
3. Movement and support
Walking, swimming or pregnancy yoga keeps joints mobile. Support belts, supportive footwear and a well-fitted maternity bra can reduce strain on the body.
4. Hydration and diet
Drink plenty of water. A fibre-rich, magnesium-rich diet supports muscle function and circulation, which can ease many types of pregnancy pain.
5. Paracetamol
Paracetamol is generally the safest painkiller in pregnancy at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time. Always check with your pharmacist, midwife or GP first, and never take ibuprofen without medical advice.
When to seek help
Contact your midwife, GP or call 111 straight away if you have any of the following alongside round ligament pain:
- Sudden, severe or worsening pain
- Pain with bleeding, fluid loss or a high temperature
- Swelling, redness or heat in one leg (possible DVT)
- Reduced or changed baby movements
- Headache with visual changes or upper abdominal pain (possible pre-eclampsia)
- Numbness, weakness or loss of sensation that does not settle
Summary
Round ligament pain during pregnancy is common and usually manageable with rest, gentle movement and simple self-care. Listen to your body, pace yourself, and ask your midwife for help. You do not have to just put up with it - safe support is available, and Nub Hub UK is here with trusted information every step of the way.
This information is for general guidance only and does not replace personalised medical advice from your midwife or doctor.