When you are pregnant, pelvic pain can feel unsettling, even if it is often related to completely normal changes in the body. At the same time, it is important to react if the pain is severe, new, or accompanied by other symptoms. Here you will find practical guidance on how to assess your pain, what you can do here and now, and when you should contact a doctor or maternity ward.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy can originate from several places: the uterus, ligaments, intestines, bladder, or pelvis. Some experience a stabbing sensation in the groin, others a shooting pain in the lower abdomen or a dull, heavy feeling.

For example, this can be:

• Stretching and increased strain as the uterus grows.
• Tenderness with movement, change of position, or prolonged standing.
• A feeling of heaviness, especially later in pregnancy.

Pain can also be related to conditions such as urinary tract infection, constipation, or other acute abdominal pains that are not necessarily due to the pregnancy itself. If in doubt, it is wise to seek a professional assessment.

When you contact a midwife, doctor, or maternity ward, it helps to be able to describe the pain specifically. This makes it easier to assess whether you can wait or if you need to be seen.

Consider:

• Where exactly is the pain located (middle, right/left side, groin, above the pubic bone)?
• How does it feel (stabbing, dull, constant, comes in waves)?
• When did it start, and does it get worse with movement, coughing, or going to the toilet?
• Do you have other symptoms such as stinging during urination, fever, nausea, diarrhea, bleeding, or vaginal discharge?
• If you are further along: do you feel the baby as usual?

Early in pregnancy, many describe a menstrual-like dull ache or short jabs that can come and go. It can be difficult to distinguish between "normal" and "should be checked," so it's better to have a low threshold for seeking advice if you become concerned.

Seek help the same day for example with:

• Bleeding, especially if accompanied by pain.
• Increasing or severe pain that does not subside with rest.
• Pain accompanied by dizziness, malaise, or feeling faint.
• Fever or affected general condition.

You should not "tough it out" at all costs. It is always okay to contact a doctor, midwife, out-of-hours doctor, or maternity ward if you are worried.

Contact for urgent assessment if you experience:

• Severe or sudden onset pain.
• Vaginal bleeding or rupture of membranes.
• Fever, chills, or pronounced feeling of illness.
• Regular pain/contractions before term or significant downward pressure.
• If the baby (later in pregnancy) moves significantly less than usual.

If you have already been assessed, or if the pain is mild and without alarm symptoms, you can often try gentle relief at home.

• Change position calmly and avoid sudden twisting.
• Take breaks during the day and lie on your side if you can.
• Use warmth carefully (e.g., a warm compress) and stop if it worsens.
• Drink enough and pay attention to bowel movements, as constipation can cause extra pressure.
• Talk to your midwife about exercises, support, and potential referral to a physiotherapist for pelvic or pubic symphysis discomfort.

If your pain is related to strain and a feeling of heaviness, a support belt can be relevant as a supplement to rest and good movement patterns. For example, you can see Support Belts or a specific Maternity Support Belt, which is designed to relieve and support the abdomen in everyday life. Please use it after consulting your midwife, especially if you have pronounced pelvic discomfort.