Tailbone pain during pregnancy is among the common but unanticipated pains that most pregnant women experience as their bodies adapt to the infant growing in them. This pain may also be felt during sitting or standing of a person, or even when one is sleeping, as a result of hormonal changes that made the ligaments loose, and because of the weight on the lower back side of the spine.
Tailbone pain during pregnancy is normal and is manageable, though sometimes it might be frightening when it first happens, especially in some extreme cases. It can go a long way knowing the reason behind it and how one can get out of it without bringing any harm to the unborn baby.
What Is Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy
Tailbone pain in pregnancy is pain or some form of soreness in the area of the spine base or coccyx experienced during pregnancy. This is commonly referred to as coccydynia and may be mild pain or sharp or stabbing in the case and the pain is usually felt when sitting or standing or even changing one position to the other. During pregnancy, the tailbone becomes more sensitive, and it is more likely to cause pain due to the physical and hormonal changes that cause additional pressure in the pelvic area.
The tailbone pain itself may present at any time during the period, but predominantly in the second and third trim ester as weight gain, postural and fetal growth are taking place. It may be uncomfortable, but it is not generally harmful and tends to improve after delivery.
Causes of Tailbone Pain in Pregnancy
Tailbone pain during pregnancy has a number of different causes, the majority of which are the normal functions of the body prior to childbirth.
Released hormones, especially relaxin, are one of the primary causes. The hormone causes the ligaments around the pelvis to relax and therefore give birth, but can also lead to loss of stability around the tailbone, which is a painful experience.
Spinal stress and pressure on the lower spine and pelvic bones are caused by increased weight and an enlarged uterus. As the baby develops, the center of gravity moves forward and posture changes, adding additional load to the coccyx. To provide support against this added strain, most expectant mothers believe in additional support- a supportive belly band, like the pregnancy belt, can assist in redistributing weight, enhancing posture, and eliminating pressure on the lower back and tailbone.
Postural change is a factor, too. Having the tendency to lean backwards is a common posture in most pregnant women as they attempt to take the burden of the belly, which might cause the tailbone in a sitting or standing position to be pressed due to the weight of the belly.
Also, tailbone discomfort may be influenced by baby positioning. When the head of the baby or the back comes against the lower spine, there is a possibility of increased pain, particularly in the late pregnancy term.
Symptoms of Tailbone Pain Pregnancy Moms Experience
Symptoms of tailbone pain during pregnancy can vary from woman to woman, but common signs include:
- Sharp or dull pain at the foundation of the spine.Sharp or dull pain at the foundation of the spine.
- More pain upon sitting, particularly on hard surfaces.
- Discomfort upon getting up after sitting.
- Pain while lying on the back.
- Discomfort in bowel movements in certain cases.
Other moms observe that the pain gets worse during the night or after extensive sitting, like at work or in a car. Although pain may be chronic, the pain tends to change in intensity with the level of activity and posture.
Safe Relief Methods for Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy
Tailbone pain is a painful condition that can be safely and effectively relieved during pregnancy without causing any harm to a woman or a baby.
One of the easiest solutions is the sitting posture. Elevation in position, where both feet are flat on the ground, and no slouching is encouraged. A donut-shaped cushion or pregnancy cushion could be used in order to position weight off the tailbone.
To take the pressure off the lower part of the spine, you should sleep on your side and hopefully place a pillow between your knees. Avoid spending long periods on your back when sleeping, particularly towards the end of pregnancy.
Pelvic and lower back muscles may be trained with the help of gentle stretches and prenatal exercises that help to increase stability and reduce pain. Pelvic tilts, prenatal yoga and walking are normally effective when done properly.
Investing in targeted wearable support can also make a massive difference. Wearing a high-quality option from a trusted lineup of pregnancy belly bands, like the Momcozy Go As You Grow™ Maternity Belly Band, helps instantly lift the load. It features an integrated 3-zone support system that redistributes weight across your body, while the 2.0 Ergonest Support Structure™ with dual-side stays helps relieve back fatigue. Its optimized lifting angle and wide, contoured belly cradle provide gentle support from underneath without compression, directly alleviating pelvic pressure.
Warm compresses can be placed over the lower back or tailbone and can help temporarily. Be sure that the heat is not excessive, but rather warm, and must be taken in brief bursts.
Finally, stiffness may be prevented by alternating positions during the day. Sit or stand in a single position wherever possible, only after a long period of time.
When to Consult a Doctor for Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy
Although tailbone pain in pregnancy is considered normal in most situations, in some situations, medical attention is needed. The healthcare provider is required in the case where the pain is usually severe, worsening, and interfering with normal life.
It is recommended to consult with a physician in case of pain in the tailbone, which is associated with numbness, tingling, fever, vaginal bleeding, and walking difficulties. The symptoms can be used to signify that there is some other underlying complication, including the compression of a nerve, infection or injury.
Your doctor may recommend physical therapy, and you can also use pelvic floor exercises or any other treatments, which are safe in pregnancy.
Tips to Prevent Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy
One thing that you cannot avoid is tailbone pain; however, some habits can be used to reduce the risk to a high degree.
- Sitting, standing and sleeping should be done in a posture. Seat on chairs with good back support, and one should not sit for long hours on hard surfaces
- Wear supportive, low-heeled shoes to help keep you upright and protect your spine.
- Before giving birth, include daily low-intensity exercises, such as walking or yoga, to maintain muscle flexibility and power.
Otherwise, when getting on and off the seats or bed, take your time and do not engage in any sharp turns that may strain the tailbone.
Conclusion
The tailbone pain during pregnancy is a normal and very annoying pain which occurs as a result of hormonal changes, weight gain, posture and pelvic pressure. Although it may be an aspect of daily life, it may be addressed as a condition that might be treated by simple modifications, including the correct positioning of the body, cushions, basic exercises, and continuous mobility. Understanding the causes and symptoms allows expecting moms to take proactive steps toward relief. When the pain is abnormal and painful, it would be necessary to visit a medical expert in order to ensure comfort and calm. Most women find that tailbone pain reduces significantly during pregnancy or disappears during the postpartum period, when well managed.
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