Understanding and Addressing Common Pregnancy Complaints

with Dr. Whitney Haase

Let’s delve into some of the most prevalent complaints that our pregnant patients experience, shedding light on their causes and potential solutions.

First on the list is sacroiliac joint pain, which occurs in the joint located between the sacrum and the ilium. Typically felt just off-center from the spine in the low back or tailbone area, this discomfort can manifest on either side and significantly impact daily activities. Sacroiliac (SI) joint pain can be debilitating with activities like rolling over in bed, going up or down stairs, lifting weights (or older children), or bending.

Next, we have pubic symphysis pain, originating from the meeting point of the two pubic bones. Also endearingly nicknamed “lightning crotch,” this pain can range from dull pressure to sharp shooting pain. It tends to be more common with split stance movements like lunges or going down stairs and is relieved by keeping the legs together when moving. Whether the pain is at the top or bottom of this joint can indicate which muscles may be contributing to the discomfort, guiding our treatment approach.

The round ligaments, though not visible on most pelvic models, are another common source of pregnancy-related pain. Round ligament pain often presents as deep, sharp stretching pain in the lower outer quadrant of the abdomen. It can be on just one or both sides, and it often comes on with sudden movements or increased abdominal pressure (like with sneezing and coughing). As the uterus expands during pregnancy, the round ligament discomfort may intensify, affecting mobility and comfort.

Lastly, generalized low back muscle pain is a common complaint during pregnancy. This is attributed to the increased workload on the low back muscles, which is compounded by joint laxity (thanks, relaxin!) and changes in the center of mass during pregnancy.

All these complaints essentially stem from a mismanagement of load through the abdomen and pelvis, leading to a loss of intra-abdominal pressure and a mismatch between stable and mobile joint patterns. Using diagrams and drawings in the office, we like to illustrate the ideal alignment of the ribs, pelvis, and abdominal wall to optimize core and pelvic floor function, so that patients are able to better understand things that they are doing in their everyday lives that may be unknowingly making their symptoms worse.

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes, often leading to an overarched low back posture and increased stretching of the abdominal wall. This altered alignment can exacerbate common complaints and compromise stability.

By understanding these changes and implementing targeted interventions, such as adjustments and exercises to improve core stability and alignment, we can alleviate discomfort and promote a healthier pregnancy journey. Stay tuned for more insights and tips to navigate the challenges of pregnancy with confidence and ease. Remember, you're not alone on this journey—we're here to support you every step of the way.