Pregnancy is often described as a “magical journey”, but the reality is that this journey comes with its fair share of strange and unexpected aches and pains. Some are strange and fleeting, and some can be really uncomfortable! If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Is this normal?”—chances are, it is! Here’s a guide to some of the weird (but common) pregnancy pains and what they actually mean. And as a reminder, if you’re ever concerned or unsure, reach out to your care provider!
1. Braxton Hicks Contractions: Your Body’s “Practice” Labor
At some point during pregnancy, many women experience the dreaded Braxton Hicks contractions. These are often referred to as “practice contractions,” but what exactly are they?
What it Feels Like:
Braxton Hicks can feel like a tightening or hardening of your abdomen. They usually aren’t painful, but they can be uncomfortable—think of them as a warm-up for the real deal later on. The sensations can vary from mild to more intense, but the key difference between these and true labor contractions is that Braxton Hicks are irregular and tend to stop when you change positions or relax.
What It Means:
Braxton Hicks are your body’s way of preparing for labor, helping to tone your uterine muscles and improve blood flow to the placenta. These contractions often start in the second trimester but become more noticeable in the third. Keep in mind that they’re not a sign of labor—so breathe easy (literally) when they strike!
2. Round Ligament Pain: The “Growing Pains” of Pregnancy
Another uncomfortable pregnancy symptom is round ligament pain, which tends to strike in the second trimester as your belly begins to expand.
What it Feels Like:
Sharp, shooting pains or a dull ache on one or both sides of your lower abdomen, usually felt when you make sudden movements, like standing up quickly, rolling over in bed, or sneezing.
What It Means:
Round ligament pain occurs because the ligaments that support your uterus stretch and thicken to accommodate your growing baby. These ligaments run from your groin area to your uterus, so as they stretch, you feel the pain in your lower abdomen. It’s completely normal but can be surprising the first time you feel it. Try to move more slowly and use pillows for support when sleeping.
3. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Tingling Hands During Pregnancy
One of the lesser-known pregnancy pains, carpal tunnel syndrome, affects a surprising number of expectant mothers.
What it Feels Like:
Numbness, tingling, and pain in your hands and wrists, especially at night or first thing in the morning. It can feel like pins and needles or even cause a loss of grip strength.
What It Means:
During pregnancy, your body retains more fluids, which can lead to swelling. This extra fluid puts pressure on the carpal tunnel—a narrow passage in your wrist through which nerves travel—causing the tingling and pain. While it’s uncomfortable, carpal tunnel syndrome usually goes away after delivery when the swelling subsides. In the meantime, you can wear wrist splints, practice hand stretches, or elevate your hands at night to ease the discomfort.
4. Pelvic Girdle Pain: The Unbearable Weight of Pregnancy
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is another common yet uncomfortable pregnancy symptom that occurs as your body preps for birth.
What it Feels Like:
Pain in the pelvic area, hips, or lower back, often felt when walking, climbing stairs, or standing for long periods. Some women describe it as a grinding sensation.
What It Means:
As your pregnancy progresses, your body releases a hormone called relaxin, which loosens your joints and ligaments to help prepare for labor. This loosening, combined with the added weight of your growing baby, can cause pelvic girdle pain. It’s important to rest when you can, avoid heavy lifting, and practice good posture to minimize discomfort. Physical therapy or pelvic support belts can also be helpful.
5. Sciatica: That Electric Shock Down Your Leg
If you suddenly feel a sharp pain shooting down the back of your leg, you may be experiencing sciatica, a common pregnancy-related issue.
What it Feels Like:
A shooting, burning, or tingling sensation that starts in your lower back or buttocks and radiates down your leg. It may come and go, but it can be very painful.
What It Means:
Sciatica occurs when the growing uterus puts pressure on the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back down your legs. This can cause the nerve to become irritated, leading to the radiating pain. Stretching, prenatal yoga, and gentle massage can help alleviate the symptoms, though sciatica often eases after delivery.
6. Heartburn: When Your Esophagus Feels Like It’s on Fire
Heartburn is one of the most common discomforts during pregnancy, and it can hit at any time, especially after meals.
What it Feels Like:
A burning sensation in your chest or throat, often accompanied by a sour or acidic taste in your mouth.
What It Means:
As your uterus grows, it puts pressure on your stomach, which can cause stomach acid to back up into your esophagus. Hormonal changes also relax the valve between your stomach and esophagus, making heartburn more likely. Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy or fatty foods, and sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce the symptoms.
It’s Weird, But You’re Not Alone
Pregnancy comes with all sorts of unexpected symptoms and pains popping up along the way. Some people experience all of these, and some a handful or none, as every body is different. While these discomforts are usually normal and temporary, always listen to your body. If something doesn’t feel right, or if the pain is severe, it’s always best to check in with your healthcare provider. And remember—you’re growing a whole new human! That’s no small feat.
If you’re experiencing unusual pregnancy symptoms and want additional support or have concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a doula or healthcare professional for personalized care.
