Q&A: It hurts when I roll over in bed. What is this?

by Dr. Gerard M. DiLeo

I'm 30 weeks pregnant and it hurts when I roll over while sleeping or when I'm up and walking, but it doesn't bother me while sitting. Is this normal?

From what you're describing—a positional pain—you may be experiencing round ligament soreness. You have some ligaments, which originate at the sides of the uterus, run through the inguinal rings and insert into the sidewalls of the vagina and inner thighs. As your uterus expands to accommodate your growing baby, those ligaments are stretched and pulled. No wonder you might feel a little sore! Because of the length of this ligament, running down into your legs, you may also have pains in your vaginal area and your thighs.

Even though these pains sound normal, you should definitely discuss them with your health care provider. He or she can do a thorough exam to make sure both you and your developing baby are healthy—that should make the pain a little more bearable!

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