View Your Wish List

Search

View Your Wish List
Basket
You have no items in your basket, add items from the shop or your wishlist.
Basket
You have no items in your basket, add items from the shop or your wishlist.

Menu

Pregnancy

Pregnancy round ligament pain: How it feels and ways to find relief

Article By
Kate
Published On
29 Sep, 2025
Read Time
3 minutes
  • Round ligament pain is a normal part of pregnancy, caused by ligaments stretching as your uterus grows. 
  • It often feels like sharp, sudden twinges low in the belly or groin, triggered by movement. 
  • Pain is usually short-lived and eases quickly, though it can feel alarming at first. 
  • Gentle stretches, supportive maternity wear, mindful posture, and warmth can all help relieve discomfort. 
  • Contact your healthcare provider if pain is severe, constant, or comes with symptoms like bleeding, fever, or unusual discharge. 
  • With simple adjustments, you can ease twinges and stay comfortable throughout pregnancy. 

Pregnancy can bring on all sorts of new sensations, some joyful, some less so. One that often takes parents by surprise is round ligament pain. It’s a sharp or tugging feeling low in the belly or groin that can strike suddenly and disappear just as quickly. 

While it can be uncomfortable, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Understanding what’s happening and knowing how to ease it can help you feel more comfortable and confident as your body changes. 

Simple lifestyle tweaks for everyday comfort during pregnancy

  1. Support your bump while sleeping: Use pillows between your knees, behind your back, or under your belly.
  2. Mind your posture: Keep your shoulders back and hips aligned to reduce strain on ligaments.
  3. Break up long stretches of activity: Short pauses for stretching or sitting can prevent sudden twinges.
  4. Stay active (gently): Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can keep muscles supple without overloading them.

Top tip

Pregnancy can come with its fair share of twinges, but with some simple adjustments you can feel more at ease and focus on the exciting journey ahead.

Understanding round ligament pain

The round ligaments are strong cords of tissue that hold your uterus in place. As your baby (and bump) grows, these ligaments stretch and thin out, which can sometimes trigger pain. 

Most people notice round ligament pain during the second trimester, but it can happen earlier or later in pregnancy, too. Think of it like a tight elastic band being pulled, sometimes the stretch feels smooth, and other times it gives a quick, sharp snap. 

Signs and sensations to look out for 

Round ligament pain has some distinct characteristics that set it apart from other pregnancy aches: 

  • Sharp, stabbing pains low in your abdomen or groin 
  • A pulling or tightening sensation, often on one side 
  • Triggered by sudden movements like rolling over in bed, standing up, coughing, or laughing 
  • Short-lived discomfort that eases within seconds or minutes 

It can feel alarming at first, but in most cases it’s simply a sign that your body is adapting to your growing bump. 

Practical ways to ease the round ligament pain 

There are simple, safe things you can do to take the edge off round ligament pain: 

  • Move mindfully: Stand up slowly, roll to your side before getting out of bed, and avoid sudden twists. 
  • Try gentle stretches: Pelvic tilts, slow hip circles, or side-lying stretches with a pillow between your knees can help. 
  • Use support wear: A maternity belly band or supportive leggings can ease strain, especially if you’re on your feet a lot. 
  • Warmth helps: A warm (not hot) wheat pack on your lower belly or a short soak in a warm bath can relax muscles and ligaments. 

Knowing when to check in with your care provider 

Round ligament pain is usually harmless, but it’s important to keep an eye on your symptoms. Contact your GP, midwife, or obstetrician if you notice: 

  • Pain that’s severe, constant, or worsening 
  • Bleeding, fever, nausea, or vomiting alongside pain 
  • Unusual vaginal discharge or pain when urinating 
  • Cramping that feels different to the short, sharp twinges of ligament pain 

Trust your instincts, if something doesn’t feel right, it’s always best to check in. 

Related Articles

Pregnancy3m

Pregnancy trimesters guide

This comprehensive guide is here to give you valuable insights and answer any questions you've got about the trimesters of pregnancy.

Pregnancy4m

Baby bump bonding

Talking, singing, touching, and moving together, are all small daily moments that build a lifelong bond.

Pregnancy4m

Pregnancy self-care tips

Explore our guide for tips on nutrition, relaxation, and emotional well-being for expecting parents.

Sources