Pelvic Pain After Running During Pregnancy
If you’re a pregnant runner, you may be experiencing pelvic pain. This is a common issue, and there are several causes and treatment options available.
In this blog post, we will discuss the causes of pelvic pain after running during pregnancy, as well as some of the best treatment options available.
We hope that this information will help you to find relief from your pelvic pain and continue to enjoy running during your pregnancy!
When should you stop running during pregnancy?
It’s recommended that pregnant women do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise a week. Exercise during pregnancy has been shown to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and cesarean delivery.
Running after pregnancy has also been linked to lower rates of reported postpartum depression.
Most experts agree that it’s safe to continue running during pregnancy, as long as you take a few precautions.
If you were a runner before getting pregnant, you can probably continue running during your pregnancy, with some modifications. However, if you are new to running, or if you have any concerns about your health or the health of your baby, you should check with your doctor before starting any running program.
Here are a few things to keep in mind if you’re pregnant and want to continue running:
- Check with your doctor first: This is especially important if you have any medical conditions or concerns about your pregnancy.
- Listen to your body: Pregnancy is a time when your body will be changing, and you may need to adjust your running program accordingly. Pay attention to how your body feels, and be sure to rest when you need to.
- Don’t overdo it: Pregnancy is not the time to try and PR or set any new personal records. Be sure to take it easy and focus on staying healthy and fit.
If you experience any pelvic pain after running during pregnancy, be sure to consult with your doctor. There are treatments available that can help relieve the pain and allow you to continue running if it is something you enjoy. Don’t let pelvic pain keep you from doing what you love.
What are the common causes of pelvic pain after running during pregnancy?
There are several possible causes of pelvic pain after running during pregnancy, including:
Extra load on the pelvic floor muscles
During pregnancy, the extra weight of the baby and the increased blood flow to the pelvis can put extra strain on the pelvic floor muscles. This can lead to pain in the pelvic region after running or other activities that involve these muscles.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also contribute to pelvic pain. Relaxin is a hormone that is produced during pregnancy and helps to relax the ligaments in the pelvis. This can make the joints in the pelvis more mobile and susceptible to pain.
Structural changes
The growing uterus can also cause changes in the structure of the pelvis, which can lead to pain. As the baby grows, the uterus expands and puts pressure on the surrounding muscles and ligaments. This can cause pain in the lower back, hips, and groin.
Common treatments for pelvic pain after running during pregnancy
There are several things that can be done to ease pelvic pain during pregnancy, including:
Exercise
Exercise is often recommended to help strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the pelvis. Prenatal yoga or Pilates can be especially helpful. A supportive belt worn around the hips can also provide some relief by taking some of the pressure off of the pelvic area.
Ice and heat
Applying ice or heat to the affected area can help to ease pain and inflammation. Ice and heat can be alternated, or used one after the other.
Medications
There are a variety of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications that can be effective in treating pelvic pain during pregnancy. These include drugs such as acetaminophen, muscle relaxants, and tricyclic antidepressants. In some cases, a combination of these medications may be necessary. Remember while pregnant to avoid Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, celecoxib. In any case that medication must be taken while pregnant OTC or otherwise always first consult with your physician.
Hormone Therapy
In some cases, pelvic pain during pregnancy may be caused by hormone imbalances. Hormone therapy can help to correct these imbalances and alleviate pain by increasing levels of progesterone and decreasing levels of estrogen.
Hormone therapy involves the use of oral medications, patch therapy, or injections to correct hormone imbalances. It is important to speak with a doctor before starting any type of hormone therapy, as there can be potential side effects.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
This type of physical therapy can be very effective in treating pelvic pain during pregnancy. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help to strengthen the muscles and ligaments that support the pelvis, which can in turn help to reduce pain.
At Lake City PT, we are dedicated to helping our patients find relief from pain and discomfort. If you are experiencing pelvic pain during pregnancy, please contact us today to schedule an appointment. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
Keep on running
Being pregnant shouldn’t mean you have to give up your running routine. In fact, running can be a great way to stay in shape during pregnancy. However, it is important to listen to your body and make sure you are not overdoing it.
If you are experiencing pelvic pain after running, get in touch with us at Lake City PT, your local experts in physical therapy. We can help you find relief from pain and discomfort, and get you back to your regular running routine.
Don’t let pelvic pain stop you from enjoying your pregnancy. Contact Lake City PT today!