As your uterus grows, the bands of tissue that support it stretch. This can cause a brief sharp, pulling, or aching feeling in your lower belly or groin, on one or both sides. Sudden movements, coughing, sneezing, or rolling over may trigger it.
When is it most noticeable?
It’s most common in the second trimester, around weeks 14–27, when your uterus grows quickly. It can also start earlier or last longer. There’s no single week when it’s worst for everyone.
When does it get better?
An episode usually lasts seconds to a few minutes and may ease when you pause or change position. Pain can come and go over the following weeks. Some people notice improvement in the third trimester; others have symptoms until delivery. It usually improves after birth. Pain that stays, worsens, or feels different needs assessment.
Practical ways to feel more comfortable
- Move slowly when standing up, sitting down, or turning in bed. Avoid quick twisting movements.
- Before coughing or sneezing, lean slightly forward and support your belly with your hands.
- Rest on your side with a pillow between your knees; a small pillow under your belly may help.
- Take breaks if standing or activity brings on pain. Avoid movements that make it worse.
- Try a comfortably warm bath. Ask us about gentle stretches or a pregnancy support belt. Stop any stretch that hurts.
- Check with us before taking pain medicine. If pain limits your walking or daily activities, come in for a visit.
When to call your OB team
- Severe, worsening, or lasting pain, or pain that does not improve with rest.
- Pain with bleeding, fever, chills, vomiting, painful urination, leaking fluid, or regular cramps or contractions.
Severe one-sided pain with faintness, shoulder pain, or bleeding needs urgent care, especially early in pregnancy. Call 911 for fainting or heavy bleeding with weakness. Do not assume all belly pain is round ligament pain. Call if you are unsure.
Contact Us
Mulberry OBGYN
139 Centre St Ph 118, New York NY 10013
646-872-2773 | info@mulberryobgyn.com
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NHS Fife — Round ligament pain and practical tips