As you near the end of your pregnancy, it's important to recognize that pelvic pain is often a key indicator that labor may be starting. This type of pain is typically due to increased pressure on your pelvis or the sensation that your baby is getting heavier. This is completely normal and often signifies that your baby is moving down into the birth canal, a process known as "dropping." The added pressure on your cervix can help to loosen the cervical plug and potentially break the amniotic sac. While this is a normal part of the birthing process, it's understandable that pelvic pain and pressure can be stressful and even a bit scary.

Looking Back a Month or Two – The Start of Pelvic Pain

It's important to note that labor-related pelvic pain actually starts well before your baby is ready to be born. Shortly after conception, your body begins to release progesterone, an essential hormone in pregnancy. Among its many roles, progesterone helps to loosen the connective tissues that would otherwise make it difficult for your body to adapt to your growing abdomen. As a result, the ligaments in your pelvis start to loosen, which can cause early-onset pelvic pain for some women. This early pain may feel more like cramping or aching in the sides of your abdomen and is usually not associated with pressure.

After your body adjusts to the new progesterone levels, these initial symptoms tend to fade. However, as your baby continues to grow, they will put more pressure on your pelvis, leading to aches throughout your pregnancy. Anytime you experience pelvic pain during pregnancy, it's crucial to discuss the nature, severity, and any accompanying symptoms with your physician.

When Is Early Pelvic Pain a Concern?

If you experience pelvic pain and pressure that feels like labor signs but it’s not yet time for your baby to arrive, it's critical to consider potential causes for concern. This is especially the case if you notice any spotting or leaking fluid from the vagina, which are signs of preterm labor. Various factors such as genetics, fetal size, and multiple fetuses can contribute to preterm labor, so these symptoms require a discussion with your obstetrician.

Pregnancy is a unique blend of beauty and stress, especially as it reaches its final stages. By understanding common pregnancy symptoms and those indicative of preterm labor, like pelvic pain and pressure, you can find some reassurance and better navigate what’s happening in your body. Remember, no question about your changing body during pregnancy is ever trivial, so never hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.