As women go through the various stages of pregnancy, they will experience several various pains which, if not attended to early, might aggravate and cause problems all the way up to the third trimester. One such instance, Coccyx pain (a.k.a. tailbone pain), occurs commonly among women right from the first trimester. Here’s a quick guide about the condition, a few probable causes, and some healthful tips as to how women can “work” their way towards a less painful more comfortable pregnancy.
COCCYX: THE TAILBONE
The tailbone, or coccyx, is a triangular bone structure along the lower end of the spine. It is nearest the upper buttocks. The bone performs a variety of important functions, such as posture and lateral movement. Needless to say, everyday actions can cause pain to this bone structure.
TAILBONE PAIN & PREGNANCY
Tailbone pain during pregnancy is initially caused by the continuing increase of pressure inside the woman’s womb. As the fetus grows, the pressure towards the mother’s lower extremities rises as well. It is this very pressure that is responsible for exerting pressure on this bone and causing this excruciating pain. Doing a few stretching exercises will help ease the pain, but targeting exercises on the tailbone may be extremely painful and uncomfortable at first.
Hormones also play a huge part behind coccyx pain in pregnancy. Relaxin and estrogen help the pelvic region relieve pressure from the weight of the growing fetus. As the baby grows, more space is needed. The tailbone adjusts and gives way, which ultimately leads to the pain.
A previous lower back injury may very well aggravate the pain along the tailbone. This is especially common in athletes. During pregnancy, injuries from years past may help contribute to the nagging pain. It is, therefore, important to have a thorough analysis of your injury history in order to counteract any long-standing effects that might weigh on your coccyx during pregnancy.
One specific condition, Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, causes pain from the pubic bone all the way down to the legs. The ligaments that keep the pelvis aligned relax, which slightly loosens up the bone. This causes a pretty strong irritating sensation.
Even everyday activities such as sneezing, coughing, walking, running, jumping and even prolonged standing may trigger coccyx pain during pregnancy. Intercourse is also a pain contributor. Basically, any activity that involves movement along the lower spine may be cited as a trigger for coccyx pain.
TAILBONE PAIN TREATMENT
Thankfully, a few adjustments on everyday activities, with the help of a few exercises, can help relieve coccyx pain, especially during this time of delicate growth. Some experts suggest doing the following to address coccyx pain:
- When seated, use a tailbone pillow
- Completely avoiding prolonged durations of walking, running.
- Using shoes with cushioned soles
- Using a maternity support belt
- Apply ice or heat packs directly on the affected area
In addition, the following exercises also help:
- Standing cat-cow
- Downward facing frog
- Bridge
THE FINAL WORD
There is no surefire way to completely get rid of coccyx pain during pregnancy. But there are so many ways to treat the nagging pain to help pregnant women have a more comfortable pregnancy.