Hey Pal,
So, let’s chat about something real—something that might not be on your radar yet but could hit you like a ton of bricks. I’m talking about Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP). When I was pregnant with my first, everyone was full of advice on morning sickness, cravings, and swollen feet, but no one warned me about this sneaky little devil.
What’s Pelvic Girdle Pain?
PGP is a kind of pain that creeps in around your pelvic region, making everything from walking to getting out of bed feel like you’ve just run a marathon (without any of the endorphins, of course). It’s like your pelvis is on a roller coaster ride you didn’t sign up for, and it’s not fun, to say the least.
For me, it started in the second trimester. At first, it was just a little twinge when I stood up too quickly or tried to roll over in bed. But before I knew it, the pain was intense, and I found myself waddling like a penguin, holding onto furniture just to get across the room. I remember thinking, “Why did no one tell me about this?”
Why Does PGP Happen?
Well, it turns out our bodies are doing some pretty incredible stuff during pregnancy—like loosening up ligaments and joints to prepare for childbirth. While this is amazing, it can also cause your pelvis to become a bit too mobile, leading to pain and discomfort.
But Don’t Worry, Pal—You’re Not Alone
If you’re feeling this too, take a deep breath. First of all, know that it’s normal, and you’re not alone. I wish someone had told me that it’s okay to feel frustrated, tired, and yes, even a bit angry at your own body for putting you through this. But you’re strong, and you’ll get through it.
Tips to Manage PGP
Here are some things that helped me manage the pain:
- Move Carefully: Try to keep your legs together when getting in and out of bed or the car. Avoid activities that require you to stand on one leg (like putting on pants) because that can worsen the pain.
- Sleep with a Pillow: Sleeping with a pillow between your knees can really help stabilize your pelvis and reduce pain. It’s a small change, but it can make a big difference.
- Consider Physical Therapy: I found that working with a physical therapist who specializes in prenatal care was a game-changer. They can show you exercises that strengthen your core and pelvic floor muscles, helping to support your pelvis.
- Wear a Support Belt: This was a lifesaver for me. A maternity support belt helps hold everything in place, taking some of the strain off your pelvis. I used the Serola Belt, which was a total game-changer. It’s designed specifically for PGP and provides gentle, yet effective support to your lower back and pelvis.
- Take It Easy: Don’t be afraid to ask for help or take breaks. If your body is telling you to slow down, listen to it. You’re growing a human, after all!
You’ve Got This, Bestie
Remember, every pregnancy is different, and there’s no shame in experiencing something that others might not have. PGP can be tough, but it doesn’t have to take over your pregnancy experience. With a little patience, the right tools, and support from those around you, you can still enjoy this beautiful, crazy journey.
And don’t forget—this too shall pass. Once your little one arrives, all of this will be a distant memory. So hang in there, take care of yourself, and know that you’re doing an amazing job.
Sending you all the love and strength,
Lynda