See a doctor immediately if you have pain and also fever, chills, pain when urinating, bleeding, or pain that is more than “moderate”.
A warm bath can be very relaxing, and help ease the pain caused by the round ligaments as they stretch to support the growing uterus. A warm (not hot) compress on the side of the pelvis where the round ligament pain is occurring may help relieve pain and discomfort as well. Soaking in the tub, or even a warm swimming pool, also helps to relieve the pain by lightening the load, as the water provides buoyancy. However, you should avoid hot tubs and jacuzzis, since they can raise your body temperature to unsafe levels for your baby.
Make sure that you find a certified prenatal massage therapist. Regular massage therapy techniques are often unsafe for the developing baby because they use too much pressure. The American Massage Therapy Association has a “Find a Massage Therapist” feature that will allow you to search for certified prenatal massage therapists.
Do not take ibuprofen during pregnancy unless it is recommended by your OB/GYN (which is unlikely). NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) are not usually safe during the first two trimesters, and are almost never safe to use during the third trimester. [11] X Research source
A commonly recommended stretching exercise is done by kneeling on your hands and knees on the floor. Then lower your head to the floor, and keep your rear raised in the air. Pelvic tilts, hip hikers, and kneeling exercises may also be helpful.
To do the cat cow pose, kneel on all fours with fingers spread wide and pointing forward. Inhale and round the back high, letting the head fall and curling your pelvis under. Exhale, pulling the belly towards the mat, and extending the back body wide to stretch the ligament. Repeat several rounds. The savasana position in often the final relaxation pose in yoga sequences. To do this pose, curl into a fetal position with your arm extended to support the head, or use a pillow. This move is practiced on your left side while pregnant, with a pillow in between the legs to relieve pressure from the lower back.
Take steps that work for you to be more comfortable while sitting. If possible, use an adjustable chair as you progress through your pregnancy, and try to avoid crossing your legs while sitting. Consider using a pillow or cushion, that conforms to your body, to provide support for your lower back, and helps you to maintain good posture.
Pain that lasts more than a few seconds New symptoms like low back pain, fever, chills, faintness, and nausea and vomiting beyond the first trimester
Round ligament pain can be confused with Braxton-Hicks contractions. While this form of contraction can begin during the second trimester, a Braxton-Hicks contraction is not painful.
