Understanding Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy — And How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Understanding Round Ligament Pain During Pregnancy And How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Pregnancy is an incredible journey of transformation. But let’s be real some of those changes can come with uncomfortable side effects. One common source of pregnancy discomfort that often catches women off guard is round ligament pain. If you’ve felt a sudden, sharp pain in your lower belly or groin area while pregnant, you’re not alone and there are natural ways to find relief.

Let’s break it down:

- What is round ligament pain? 

- Why does it happen?
- Is it normal?
- Can chiropractic care help?

What Is Round Ligament Pain?
Round ligament pain is a sharp, pulling, or aching sensation in the lower abdomen or groin — usually on one or both sides. It’s most common during the second trimester, though some women feel it earlier.

This pain originates from the round ligaments, rope-like structures that support your growing uterus. These ligaments stretch and thicken as your baby grows, helping hold the uterus in place.

When you move suddenly, stand up too quickly, roll over in bed, cough, or even laugh — those stretched ligaments can spasm, causing brief but sometimes intense pain.

Source: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) confirms round ligament pain is a normal part of pregnancy.
https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/discomforts-of-pregnancy

Is Round Ligament Pain Normal?
Yes, round ligament pain is normal and a common part of a healthy pregnancy. However, just because it’s normal doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it.

How it feels:

Sudden sharp or jabbing pain in the lower belly

Aching, cramp-like sensation that may last a few minutes

Pain often triggered by movement, sneezing, or changing positions

It’s important to distinguish round ligament pain from more serious concerns like appendicitis, preterm labor, or urinary tract infections. If your pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, bleeding, or contractions, speak with your healthcare provider immediately.

Can Chiropractic Care Help with Round Ligament Pain?
Yes — many women find safe, drug-free relief through prenatal chiropractic care.

Here’s how it works:
During pregnancy, your body is in a constant state of change. As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on the round ligaments and pelvis. If your pelvis is misaligned, this can pull unevenly on the round ligaments, increasing pain and discomfort.

Chiropractic adjustments, especially those that use the Webster Technique, focus on gently aligning the pelvis and spine, which helps relieve tension in surrounding ligaments and muscles.

According to the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, chiropractic care during pregnancy is associated with reduced back pain, pelvic pain, and labor times.
https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(07)60025-7

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Round Ligament Pain:
Eases the strain on the uterus and ligaments

Promotes better posture and pelvic alignment

Reduces pain in the hips, lower back, and groin

Helps baby move into the optimal birth position

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is considered safe when performed by a provider trained in prenatal techniques.

At-Home Tips to Reduce Round Ligament Pain
Along with chiropractic care, here are a few things you can do:

Move mindfully – Change positions slowly, especially when standing or turning in bed.

Use a belly band – Maternity support belts can reduce strain on ligaments.

Stretch gently – Prenatal yoga or pelvic tilts can release tension.

Apply heat – A warm (not hot) compress may ease soreness.

Hydrate and rest – Staying well-hydrated supports muscle and ligament health.

Final Thoughts
Round ligament pain may be a normal part of pregnancy, but it doesn’t have to be your “new normal.” Understanding where the pain is coming from — and how your changing posture and pelvic alignment affect it — can help you take smart steps toward relief.

Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive way to ease ligament tension, promote better pelvic balance, and help you enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy journey.

If you’re struggling with round ligament pain, talk to a prenatal chiropractor near you — and get back to feeling like yourself again.

Sources:
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): https://www.acog.org

Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2007: https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(07)60025-7

Cleveland Clinic: Round Ligament Pain in Pregnancy: https://my.clevelandclinic.org

National Institutes of Health (NIH): Round ligament pain overview: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov