WHY DOES IT HURT?

Q:I’m six months pregnant. This is my second pregnancy. I have pain on my pubic bone, which feels like a muscle cramp. Can you advise me on what it could be and how to get rid of it?

A:Tina answers: In your pubic bone area there are two pelvic bones that meet in the front. As your body prepares for labour, the joints of the pelvis loosen. This can cause discomfort. You tend to feel it sooner in your second pregnancy. The other cramp-like feeling you’re experiencing may be due to the stretching of the ligaments that lie on either side of the uterus. These stretch as the uterus grows. Try to put your feet up as often as possible. Don’t stand for long periods of time, and breathe slowly and deeply whenever the pain is intense. You may want to try a little physiotherapy or put warm compresses over your joints and in your groin. Move slowly with your knees together when getting in and out of bed in the mornings when your body is a little stiff.