How to Relieve Round Ligament Pain & Braxton-Hicks Contractions

Content medically reviewed by John M. Balintona, MD

If you are in your second trimester of pregnancy, you probably know having a baby on board can come with aches and pains. While this might seem worrisome, the most common types of discomfort are not cause for concern. By knowing how to recognize and relieve round ligament pain and Braxton-Hicks contractions, you can help put your mind at ease.

"Both of these conditions are common, especially in the second trimester and as you get closer to your due date," said Dr. John M. Balintona, OB/GYN at Essentia Health. “But if you have any concerns, we encourage you to communicate with your provider as often as needed. We are here to provide guidance.”

What Is Round Ligament Pain?

Many pregnant women experience round ligament pain during the second trimester. A round ligament is connective tissue that looks like a band of rope. It supports the uterus and connects it to the pelvis. There is one round ligament on each side of the uterus. 

“Round ligament pain is caused by the growing and stretching of the round ligaments during pregnancy,” Dr. Balintona said. “The extra tension on the ligaments causes pain symptoms.”

Symptoms of round ligament pain include sharp pains, cramping pain, and pulling sensations. This type of pain can happen when the ligament stretches due to sudden movements. Common triggers include standing too quickly, rolling over in bed or getting out of bed, sneezing, coughing, and laughing. Exercising can also worsen round ligament pain. 

Braxton-Hicks Contractions vs. True Labor

Braxton-Hicks contractions are a normal part of pregnancy, usually occurring during the third trimester but sometimes as early as the second trimester. They are often called “false labor” or “practice contractions” because they prep your body for true labor. But having them doesn’t mean labor will begin anytime soon. They actually begin at around six weeks gestation, but you don’t feel them until much later in your pregnancy. 

Many pregnant people report that Braxton-Hicks contractions feel like mild menstrual cramps or a tightening of the abdomen that lasts about 15 to 30 seconds. Sometimes, they can last longer. They usually cause more discomfort than pain and do not become more frequent or intense, as true labor pains do. Instead, Braxton-Hicks contractions can be random and occur throughout your pregnancy. 

“Braxton-Hicks may be differentiated from true contractions in that they are irregular in pattern and are typically shorter,” Dr. Balintona said. “Braxton-Hicks may also decrease with rest or change in position. Typically, they get more intense as you approach your due date.”

Some possible triggers of Braxton-Hicks include –

• A full bladder
• Dehydration
• Physical activity

If you are unsure whether your contractions are Braxton-Hicks or true labor, keep in mind that labor contractions –

• Occur four or more times per hour, getting closer together 
• Become stronger and more painful and do not ease up with rest or changing position
• Create pressure in the pelvic area that can feel like the baby is pushing down into your vagina
• Can be accompanied by strong back pain

If your water breaks, which can feel like a steady trickle or a gush of fluid, this is also a sign you are going into labor.

Relieving Pregnancy Aches & Pains

Fortunately, you can do things at home to ease your discomfort when you experience aches and pains during pregnancy.

Round ligament pain usually goes away with rest. You can also try these easy interventions to help relieve and prevent it –

• Apply a warm compress to the area.
• Avoid heavy lifting or standing for long periods.
• Do yoga or gentle stretching exercises.
• Soak in a warm bath.
• Support the uterus with an elastic belly band.
• Take acetaminophen. 

“Holding your lower abdomen when preparing to laugh, cough, or sneeze may also be helpful,” Dr. Balintona said. “Women should also get plenty of rest and avoid positions that worsen the pain.”

A few home remedies may also help you feel better during Braxton-Hicks contractions. 

“Hydration and rest are good first-line interventions,” Dr. Balintona said. “Also taking a warm bath, doing breathing exercises, and getting a massage from your partner may be helpful.”

How to Know When Pregnancy Pain Isn’t Normal

While round ligament pain, Braxton-Hicks contractions, and other mild pains like headaches, backaches, and leg cramps are common during pregnancy, some symptoms require prompt medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your provider right away –

• Bleeding or abnormal vaginal discharge
• Fever or chills
• Pain that increases or doesn’t go away with rest
• Persistent nausea and vomiting 
• Sharp, stabbing pain

These symptoms can be signs of a more serious problem. If you are in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact your provider.

“It can sometimes be difficult for women to distinguish normal symptoms from something more serious,” Dr. Balintona said. “Therefore, each patient is encouraged to communicate with their pregnancy provider as often as need be.”

If you have questions outside of normal clinic hours, Essentia Health Birthing Centers are staffed 24 hours a day with providers who can answer questions and provide guidance.