Being pregnant and experiencing tailbone pain can feel both irritating and worrying, especially when the pain makes it difficult to sit, stand up, or sleep peacefully. You are not alone, and fortunately, there are several gentle approaches you can try in your daily life. Below, you'll find practical guidance and clear signs of when you should talk to a midwife or doctor.
Tailbone pain during pregnancy: typical causes
Pain in the tailbone (coccyx) during pregnancy can be related to the body's changing load as the belly grows. Posture can change, and the pelvis can become more susceptible because ligaments and tissues often become more pliable during pregnancy. Some also find that the pelvic floor and muscles around the hips and lower back become tired from compensating, which can cause pain in the rear.
Where is it often felt?
Many describe a sharp or sore pain in the lower back, just above or at the tailbone, typically worse after prolonged sitting, when standing up, or during certain movements like turning over in bed.
Pain when sitting: how to relieve your tailbone
When you sit, direct pressure on the tailbone can trigger pain. Try these simple adjustments:
Small changes that can help
- Sit on a firm chair and place more weight on your sit bones than "on your rear."
- Lean slightly forward with a neutral back if it feels comfortable.
- Stand up more often, e.g., every 30 to 60 minutes, and walk a few steps.
- Use a cushion to vary the pressure (some people find a cushion helpful, others don't, so feel what's right for you).
Tailbone pain when standing up: good movement tips
The transition from sitting to standing can be painful because the tissue around the tailbone is quickly strained.
Gentle technique
- Move your feet under you before standing up.
- Lean your upper body forward, slightly tighten your abdominal and gluteal muscles, and push up with your legs.
- Avoid "pushing" yourself up by leaning backward if it provokes the pain.
Exercises and posture for tailbone pain during pregnancy
You don't need to "work through" the pain. Instead, think about stability and relief.
Simple, gentle choices
- Short walks may be better than long walks if you experience pain.
- Gentle mobility in the hips and lower back can be tried, but stop if it worsens the pain.
- Vary your working positions: stand, sit, and walk in short shifts.
- Consider asking a physiotherapist experienced in pregnancy for targeted exercises if the pain is very significant.
When should you contact a doctor or midwife?
Seek assessment if the pain is severe, rapidly increasing, or significantly affecting your daily life. Also, seek help if you have a fever, numbness or tingling, severe pain after a fall, or if you are concerned. It's perfectly okay to address it early; you don't have to wait and see alone.
Products that can provide daily relief
If your discomfort is related to strain around the pelvis and lower back, a support product can sometimes make it easier to move and change positions. Many pregnant women choose a pregnancy support belt to relieve pressure on the back, such as Support Belts or a more targeted choice like the Maternity Support Belt. If you want to see a specific product, you can look at the Maternity Support Belt and assess with your body if support feels comfortable.
Leave a comment