Pain during pregnancy is not uncommon. In fact, discomfort in various parts of the body, including the knees, hips, lower back, and ankles, is more prevalent than you think. But some types of pain can linger and remain even after childbirth. This includes hip pain.
Postpartum hip pain is real and can add to parenting woes. This can range from mild ache and sharp pain to soreness. To help new mothers navigate through this problem, we spoke to Dr Teji Dawane, Senior Consultant, Obstetrician, and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Whitefield, Bengaluru, who shared insightful tips to manage the same.
Also Read: Navigating Postpartum: Expert Helps Understand Your Body's Journey After Childbirth
Causes Of Postpartum Hip Pain
Hip pain is one of the most common types of pain experienced by pregnant women, according to a study published in Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease. Other areas included the lower back, the back in general, and hands and wrists. Researchers also noted that the pain seemed to get worse as the pregnancy progressed, with most women experiencing the most pain in the third trimester.
Unfortunately, hip pain can also remain or worsen after childbirth. This could be due to various reasons, like changes in posture, changes in hormones, experiencing strain during labour and delivery, weight gain during pregnancy, joint instability, and muscle weakness, says Dr Dawane.
She adds that it could also be a result of the body lacking calcium, vitamin D, or B12.
As far as the risk factors go, women with a history of lower back pain are more likely to experience this type of pain. Additionally, the method of childbirth, complications during pregnancy, and hormonal changes may also contribute to the condition.
It is important to note that the severity of the hip pain may vary from person to person, depending on factors like individual health, pregnancy experience, and the method of delivery.
Symptoms To Watch Out For
The most common type of hip pain during pregnancy is pelvic girdle pain, which is pain that can occur in the front and back of your pelvis and may radiate to your hip or thigh.
Some of the most common symptoms of postpartum hip pain include:
- Constant pain in the pelvic area
- Discomfort that gets worse during activities or exercise
- Trouble with specific positions, like lying on your side
- Pain near the pelvis in areas like the lower back, thighs, or buttocks
Tips To Manage Hip Pain Post-Childbirth
Here are some tips to help you alleviate some of the pain and discomfort:
- Bed rest
- A brace or binder for the pelvic area
- Occupational therapy
- Massage and stretching
- Pain relief injections or painkillers (consult your doctor before taking any new medications)
“While most of a new mother’s attention is directed towards her baby, it is important that she takes care of herself and gets proper rest from time to time for a speedy recovery," Dr Dawane advises.
Also Read: Postpartum Care: Here Are Some Post Delivery Tips And Precautions For New Mothers
Conclusion
Anyone can develop hip pain. But the chances increase with pregnancy, given all the weight that needs to be carried and the strain it puts on the abdominal and pelvic areas. While the good news is that it can be managed, the bad news is that it can continue to cause trouble and pose problems even after childbirth. It is best to consult your doctor to not only treat the condition but also manage the pain. Additional health issues only make it more challenging for new mothers to support themselves and their babies, which is why there is no shame in seeking professional help.