PAIN KEEPS ME AWAKE

I am 31 weeks pregnant, and I have major hip pain, especially at night. Tossing, turning and surrounding myself with pillows does not help. I can’t sleep. What should I do?

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TINA SAYS: One of the most common complaints of pregnancy is pelvic pain. For some women, it is slightly uncomfortable, while for others, even slow walking is difficult. This is very common in subsequent pregnancies. The pelvis has a joint in the front and two at the back that is supported and held together by strong

ligaments. During pregnancy (under influences of the pregnancy hormones) the ligaments soften and slacken, causing the joints to become less stable in order for the pelvis to widen so that the baby can pass through easily during labour. Pain is usually felt low down over the symphysis pubis joint, which becomes very sensitive and tender. Pain is often felt in the hips, lower abdomen and groin. It is often worse on rising from bed, or from the floor, when getting in and out of a car and in some women, simply walking is almost unbearable. There is no quick fix during pregnancy, and things will improve gradually afterwards, but there are a few things you can do to decrease the amount of discomfort you may feel. If climbing stairs hurts, then take the lift. Avoid walking long distances and standing for long periods of time. Sit on a high stool to take the weight off your pelvis. Try putting a piece of plastic on the seat so that you can easily swivel your legs out of the car. You can also wear a support belt. Physiotherapy or a visit to a chiropractor will give some relief for a short time. It’s worth going for a few sessions when you are really hurting. Try putting your feet up whenever you can.