Sharp pains during pregnancy? It could be lightning crotch
Lightning crotch is a pregnancy condition that you might not know about and feels like a sharp, stabbing pain in your pelvis.
While pregnancy comes with many niggles, arguably one of the strangest is a sharp, stabbing pain in your pelvis or vagina. Some moms describe the feeling as “being punched in the crotch”. It’s called lightning crotch and is caused by the pressure and the position of the baby as she descends to the birth canal for labour.
Is lightning crotch normal?
Yes, it’s normal. The pain means that you’re getting closer to delivering your baby. The bad news is that you could experience lightning crotch for weeks before you actually go into labour, says registered nurse Chaunie Brusie on Healthline.com.
Is lighting pain dangerous?
“Most of the time it’s not serious, especially if it’s not interfering with your daily activities and it isn’t accompanied by any other symptoms,” says Chaunie.
When to see the doctor
If the pain is accompanied by other symptoms such as a fever, abnormal or fluid discharge, or bleeding, schedule an appointment with your gynae as soon as possible.
Ways to ease the discomfort
Here are a few things you can do to feel comfortable during your pregnancy:
- Regular moderate exercise (if your doctor gives you the go-ahead): Staying active will help keep your joints flexible as your body takes on a heavier load from your growing baby.
- Wear a support brace: It helps to lift and support your belly to take some pressure off your hips, joints, and cervix. We like the Pregnancy Pouch Maternity Belt, which has been approved by gynaecologists, biokineticists, and physiotherapists.
