Pelvic pain in the third trimester is one of the most common reasons why pregnant women are unsure about what is normal and when they should react. In the latter part of pregnancy, the baby takes up more space, the uterus puts pressure on ligaments and muscles, and the pelvis can become more vulnerable to movement and strain. This guide is practical and down-to-earth but cannot replace an assessment by a midwife or doctor if you are anxious or have new symptoms.

There can be several harmless explanations, often related to strain and pressure:

When the baby lies lower, you may experience a feeling of heaviness, downward pressure, or sharp pains in the pelvis, especially when walking, getting up, or at the end of the day.

The uterus is supported by ligaments, which can cause stabbing pains in the sides of the pelvis, typically with sudden movements such as turning over in bed, coughing, or walking quickly.

Pain in the front of the pubic bone, in the groin, or around the hips can result from pelvic strain. It can feel worse when climbing stairs, walking long distances, or standing on one leg (e.g., when putting on trousers).

In the third trimester, the uterus can contract as “practice contractions” (Braxton Hicks contractions). They can feel like a tightening and hardening of the belly, sometimes with a dull ache in the pelvis.

• Braxton Hicks contractions are often irregular and may subside with rest, a slower pace, or fluids.
• If you experience regular contractions that increase in strength, or if you are in doubt, you should contact the labor and delivery ward/midwife for advice.

If the pain primarily occurs with movement, it is often a sign that muscles, joints, and ligaments are working at full capacity.

• Get up with your legs together and use your arms for support, especially from the sofa and bed.
• Turn over in bed incrementally: bend your knees, keep them together, roll onto your side, and use your arm to push yourself up.
• Plan breaks and distribute activities throughout the day in smaller chunks.

It is always okay to seek help if you are worried. Contact a doctor, midwife, or the labor and delivery ward immediately if you experience signs that may require quick assessment, for example:

• Bleeding, waters breaking, or suspected leakage of amniotic fluid
• Fever or a distinct feeling of illness
• Severe pain that comes on suddenly, gets worse, or is not relieved by rest
• Pain during urination or suspected urinary tract infection
• Regular pain/contractions before term or if you have previously had a premature birth
• Significant change in the baby's movements, if you experience fewer movements than usual

The goal is typically to reduce strain and create more calm in the body.

• Take breaks with your legs up, especially if the pain increases during the day.
• Use local heat (e.g., a heating pad) if it helps you, but avoid excessive heat and do not sleep with strong heat on your belly.
• Move gently: short walks may be better than long ones, and calm activity may feel better than total inactivity.
• Note patterns: when does the pain occur, where is it located, and what worsens or relieves it. This is useful if you need to speak with a midwife or doctor.

If you primarily experience heaviness, pulling, and strain pain, a support product can help relieve it in everyday life. An example is the Maternity Support Belt, which can provide more stability around the abdomen and pelvis during walking and standing activities.

Sources for more patient-oriented knowledge: Sundhed.dk on pelvic pain in pregnancy and Baby.dk on pelvic pain and ligament pain.