Groin pain during pregnancy is one of the most common conditions. The growing uterus can physiologically trigger groin pain. Inguinal pain during pregnancy can be experienced in the first weeks of pregnancy as well as in the last 3 months of pregnancy. The pain is usually only one or two times a day.
In women who suffer from chronic abdominal pain, such as fibromyalgia, postherpetic neuralgia and chronic pelvic pain, groin pain can be caused as well. It is important that women in this situation be educated that their pelvic muscles can react in a number of different ways to different stimuli.
What is an inguinal hernia?
An inguinal hernia is a hernia that is located directly behind the navel that is located in the area of the groin. An inguinal hernia can cause pain and discomfort. Many inguinal hernias are a result of muscle spasm. For this reason, it is recommended that women who have an inguinal hernia do not engage in strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects.
How does pain in the groin during pregnancy compare with other conditions?
Pain in the groin during pregnancy is more common than other conditions, like diabetes. These conditions may not cause painful sex or intercourse. When compared to other types of pain, the groin pain during pregnancy is often very mild. A pain on one side of the body may not be noticeable to someone not in the area of the groin. Also, the pain during pregnancy does not last long. However, it does not necessarily require medical care. The pain may diminish with time.
Is there anything you can do if you have an inguinal hernia?
It is recommended that women with an inguinal hernia avoid engaging in strenuous activities or lifting heavy objects in the area of the groin. In addition, if you experience severe pain, you may want to seek medical help.
What is the best way to reduce pain during pregnancy?
Ingestion of ibuprofen as well as acetaminophen is recommended if you are having painful sexual intercourse. If you do not have intercourse, massage is also effective. You may also need to take acetaminophen with a meal.
Other things to look out for:
If you have trouble peeing when having sex, try using a cervical douche or a form of oral medication called Metolazone. The oral medication is a non-surgical option to help you reduce the pain during intercourse.
If you are having difficulty urinating during intercourse, try using an injection, like a Vicks VapoRub. The Vicks VapoRub is used as a non-surgical option to reduce the pain during intercourse.
If you are having trouble urinating while having intercourse, or you are in the middle of a large bowel movement, consult your doctor.
To overcome pain caused by pelvic organs during pregnancy, you may want to try these five suggestions:
- Start your day with walking with a short rest period, if you are a little bit tired.
- Avoid eating too fast.
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
- Keep an eye on your abdomen during every step.
- Take pain medication, if possible, on a consistent basis, or see a doctor.
Treatment
If the cause of pain isn’t addressed correctly, the consequences can be serious and can be fatal. A few simple measures can minimize your chances of suffering with pelvic pain in pregnancy:
- Avoid strenuous physical activity.
- Avoid smoking.
- Avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
- Avoid stretching and muscle groups with which you are used to doing them for long periods.
- Practice a variety of exercises, including low to moderate-intensity physical therapy, when pain is present.
For more information about treatment options for pelvic pain during pregnancy, please contact your doctor. If you have more questions about this condition or would like to speak with someone who can recommend appropriate professionals, please call 1-888-722-4435.
