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What Is Round Ligament Pain?
The round ligaments are two cord-like structures that run from the front of your uterus down into your groin. Their job is to support the uterus as it grows — but during pregnancy, they stretch significantly to accommodate your expanding baby. When they stretch too quickly or are pulled unevenly due to pelvic imbalance, the result is round ligament pain: a sharp, stabbing sensation that can stop you mid-step.
It's one of the most common pregnancy complaints, and while it's not dangerous, it can make everyday movement — standing up, rolling over in bed, coughing, sneezing — surprisingly painful.
Common Symptoms and Triggers
Round ligament pain typically shows up as sharp, sudden pain on one or both sides of the lower abdomen or groin. It's most common in the second trimester but can occur throughout pregnancy.
Common triggers include sudden position changes (standing up quickly, rolling in bed), sneezing or coughing, laughing, prolonged standing, and physical activity. The pain is usually brief but can be intense enough to take your breath away.
How Chiropractic Helps
Round ligament pain is often a symptom of deeper pelvic imbalance. When the sacrum is misaligned, it creates uneven tension on the ligaments — one side pulls more than the other, and that's where the pain comes from.
Through the Webster Technique, we address the sacral misalignment directly and release tension in the round ligaments. This reduces the pulling and stretching that causes pain, restoring comfort and mobility.
What Relief Looks Like at A&O
Adjustments for round ligament pain are gentle and pregnancy-specific. Many moms notice significant relief within their first few visits. We also provide guidance on positioning, stretches, and daily movement modifications that help manage symptoms between appointments. The same pelvic balance work that relieves round ligament pain often eases pelvic pain and SPD as well.
FAQs
Find answers to your most pressing questions about our chiropractic services for children and families.
It's typically a sharp, stabbing, or pulling sensation on one or both sides of your lower abdomen or groin. It comes on suddenly — often triggered by a quick movement — and usually lasts only a few seconds to a minute.
Yes. Round ligament pain is closely tied to pelvic alignment. By correcting sacral misalignment and reducing tension on the ligaments through the Webster Technique, chiropractic care addresses the root of the problem — not just the symptom.
It's most common in the second trimester as the uterus begins to grow more rapidly, but some women experience it as early as the first trimester or as late as the third.
Round ligament pain itself is not harmful to you or your baby. However, persistent or severe abdominal pain during pregnancy should always be discussed with your OB or midwife to rule out other causes.
Find Relief — Schedule Your Prenatal Visit!
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