Sunday, April 12, 2015
RIB PAIN DURING PREGNANCY.
Rib Pain During Pregnancy Rib pain is usually experienced in the third trimester of pregnancy, although for some women it begins even earlier. The sensation can range from mild discomfort to strong pain. Rib pain during pregnancy is caused by pressure from the top of your growing uterus, as well as your baby kicking or punching the area. Sore ribs are usually on the side of the baby’s position and can be felt just below the breasts. You’ll probably find that your ribs are more painful when sitting, moreso when leaning forward. The fundus (the top of your uterus) is at it’s highest at around 36 weeks of pregnancy, reaching just below the breastbone. After this time, your baby drops into your pelvic cavity in preparation for birth. This usually provides some much appreciated relief! What Can I Do To Help Relieve The Discomfort of Rib Pain During Pregnancy? While there is not much you can do to stop or fix a growing uterus, there are some things you can do to get some temporary relief. The below suggestions will not ‘cure’ your soreness but may help you get that relief you need to get through until baby drops down lower. Remember, being pregnant you cannot take anti-inflammatories, so steer clear of any medications, especially without medical advice. For unbearable pain, you can see your doctor or midwife about taking panadeine or panadeine forte, but still avoid all medicines where possible, as codeine can cause constipation when you are already prone to it being pregnant. Tips For Sore Ribs Here are 9 tips to help if you’re experiencing rib pain during pregnancy: Make yourself as comfortable as possible by wearing loose fitting clothes Support yourself with cushions when lying down Sit up straight and don’t hunch over – create more room, while supporting your back Avoid sitting down for too long – get up and take regular stretch breaks or short walks Heat packs or cold packs – whatever works best for you A nice hot shower (be sensible with this one – not too hot!) Exercises that help you stretch out and support your body, like swimming Cut out inflammation causing foods which will make you feel worse. Most importantly, eradicate sugar and grains, which will also significantly reduce your risk of gestational diabetes. Stretch! Here is a really effective exercise from midwife, Alan Rooney: “Stand facing a wall. With your feet 40cms from the wall, cross your arms in front of your face. Then lean your crossed arms on the wall sliding them up the wall above your head and stretching yourself up as far as possible. Hold the position for as long as comfortable. This lifts the diaphragm and rib cage up off the uterus and really provides huge temporary relief, especially if the pain is caused by a breech baby’s hard little head wedged under your ribs.” It’s also a great idea to take a trip to a natural health practitioner if you haven’t already. Depending on which therapy you prefer, an osteopath, (ideally one who performs cranio sacral work), acupuncturist or chiropractor can help ease rib pain during pregnancy. At the same time, your therapist can see how your body is going overall, and can detect any other areas which may be a problem — even contributing to your aches and pains if something is out of whack elsewhere. Can Anything Stop Rib Pain During Pregnancy? Aside from all that, there is only one magic pill that will take the rib pain away – giving birth! Sorry to tease, but I have been there myself and the only thing that completely fixed my sore ribs was birth. As soon as my gorgeous girl was born, it completely disappeared.
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