Tailbone pain is one of the more common problems complained of by mothers-to-be. It can have many causes. Usually the reason is a tailbone injury, but during pregnancy, changes in the body, which is beginning to prepare for childbirth, are also responsible for it. What else causes tailbone pain and how to deal with it with home remedies?
Causes of tailbone pain in pregnancy
Tailbone pain particularly affects moms-to-be who have a history of tailbone injury, especially as the enlarging uterus begins to put pressure on the spine. However, it is very often complained about by pregnant women in whom it appears for no apparent reason. It is now increasingly indicated that the hormone relaxin is responsible. It induces a relaxation of the so-called “softening” of the “softening”. cartilage, or cartilaginous structures, the loosening of which is crucial for a woman to give birth naturally. That’s why tailbone pain increases as the date of delivery approaches and the mother-to-be gains weight. The hyoid bone before birth can also put pressure on the baby’s head as it prepares to come into the world.
Why does the tailbone still hurt during pregnancy?
Tailbone pain in pregnancy can also be caused by the pregnant woman adopting an unnatural position in which she tries to relieve pressure on her spine. Sometimes it is also the result of degenerative disease of the higher segments of the spine, in the course of which, for example, pressure on a nerve appears. The pain may then radiate not only to the hyoid bone, but also to the buttock and lower extremity. It is often felt in the upper back as well.
Sometimes lower back pain occurs, which should arouse our vigilance. If they intensify when urinating, they may indicate a developing inflammation. They can be caused by sciatica or disc prolapse due to spinal overload. They are also a symptom of the separation of the pubic conjunctiva. If, on the other hand, the pain is rhythmic and does not subside despite the change of position, then the cause may be the progressive dilation of the cervical canal, which is an indication for consultation with a specialist, as it may indicate the beginning of labor.
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How to deal with a sore tailbone during pregnancy?
If the pain is severe and makes it difficult for the mother-to-be to function normally, it is worth consulting a specialist who will choose the best form of therapy that is safe for the mother and her unborn child. Among home remedies, warm baths, such as those with relaxing oils, will provide relief. Relaxing the muscles helps reduce the discomfort, so a warm compress, lying down on an electric pillow or a massage to relax the sore spot will have a similar effect. However, it is important that it is performed by a specialist.
Mothers-to-be should also equip themselves in advance with comfortable cushions for sitting; with advanced ailments, especially if the pain is the result of an injury, orthopedic cushions may be necessary, which can be placed not only on a chair, but also on a car seat. The characteristic design of the orthopedic cushion allows the buttocks to rest comfortably on it, while there is no pressure on the button bone. The mother-to-be should also give up activities that put additional stress on the spine and spend more time resting. Relaxation techniques that allow you to control your own body and muscles also work well in many cases. It is important not to use painkillers on your own without consulting a specialist.
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Exercises for tailbone pain during pregnancy
If the pain persists despite using home remedies, the help of a physiotherapist may be necessary. It is important not to perform exercises haphazardly, as they should be selected not only for the problem, but also for the stage of pregnancy. What matters is both a good choice of exercises and the technique of performing them. Above all, those that stretch and relax the back and strengthen the muscles are advisable. Unless the mother-to-be was a physically active person before pregnancy, and the doctor decides otherwise, there is no contraindication for her to give up movement and exercise. Tailbone pain is often exacerbated by sitting, so it’s worth remembering to move and take regular walks, which, in addition to activating the muscles, oxygenate the body and make you feel better.
In addition to physical activity, it is also good to ensure proper sleep hygiene. Because the bigger the baby in mom’s belly, the less comfortable positions she can assume. That’s why it’s a good idea to give up a large pillow under your head and an overly soft mattress that you sink into.
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Pregnancy and physical activity – benefits and contraindications
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