Tailbone pain during pregnancy is a very common discomfort, which can be felt as pressure, tenderness, or a sharp pain in the lower back, especially when sitting, standing up, or lying in certain positions. Although often harmless, it can affect sleep, mood, and overall energy. Here you will find practical advice on what you can do right now and when it makes sense to seek extra help.
Tailbone pain during pregnancy - typical causes
There is rarely one single explanation. Many experience coccyx pain because the body changes rapidly, and the load shifts. Some of the most typical contributing factors are:
The body's altered load
As the belly grows, the center of gravity changes, and the lower back and pelvis work differently. This can cause tension around the pelvic floor and the area around the tailbone.
Joints and tissues become more pliable
During pregnancy, joints and connective tissue are affected, allowing the pelvis to adapt. For some, this can cause more "pull" and irritation around the tailbone, especially with one-sided movements or a lot of sedentary time.
Tailbone pain when sitting during pregnancy - how to relieve it
If the pain primarily occurs when you sit, it is often due to direct pressure on the tailbone and tension in the area.
Small adjustments that often help
- Sit further back in the seat with your weight on your sit bones, not on your "tail".
- Change positions more often. Set a reminder if you forget.
- Try to sit with slightly spread knees and feet on the floor for more pelvic stability.
Be aware of the "standing up" moment
Many experience a sharp pain when transitioning from sitting to standing. Try rolling forward slightly, placing your feet under you, and pushing up with your legs at a calm pace.
Tailbone pain during pregnancy - exercises and hot/cold therapy you can try
The goal is often to reduce tension and provide relief around the pelvis and lower back.
Gentle movement over strenuous exercise
- Short walks may be better than long walks if you become more sore afterward.
- Pelvic tilts (standing or on all fours) can relieve some, as it gently mobilizes the lower back.
Heat or cold
Some experience relief from a hot pad on the lower back/buttock (not too hot and not directly on the abdomen). Others find temporary cold therapy more effective for irritation. Choose what feels best for you.
Pelvic pain and tailbone pain during pregnancy - daily support
When the tailbone hurts, it is often related to increased strain on the pelvis and lower back. Here, support and relief in everyday life can make a real difference, without you having to "tough it out" of the pain.
Practical support for standing and walking activities
A maternity support belt can help distribute the weight from the abdomen and create more stability around the pelvis and lower back, which some find to be a relief for tailbone discomfort. You can see the collection of Support Belts here, and if you want to be able to continuously adjust the support, the Adjustable Maternity Support Belt may be relevant.
When should I contact a doctor or midwife for tailbone pain during pregnancy?
Seek professional assessment if:
- the pain is severe, increasing, or significantly affects your walking
- you develop fever, pronounced malaise, or sudden new pain
- you have sensory disturbances, weakness, or problems holding urine/stool
- you are uneasy, or the pain makes it difficult to sleep and function in everyday life
Your midwife or doctor can help assess the causes, rule out other conditions, and possibly refer you to a physiotherapist with experience in pregnancy and pelvic issues.
Relevant products (max 3)
If you want to try concrete support in your daily life, a belt can be a practical next step. An example is the Maternity Support Belt, which is designed to provide targeted support around the pelvis and lower back as your body changes. Alternatively, the Adjustable Support Belt may be a solution if you need extra flexibility to fine-tune the fit from day to day.
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