Ligament pain during pregnancy - why does it occur?
First: let’s talk about what ligament pain actually is. The ligaments act like elastic bands on either side of the uterus, holding it securely in place. As the uterus grows, the ligaments are stretched, which can cause pain ranging from mild soreness to sudden, sharp pains low in the abdomen or groin. Some women also describe it as period-like pain during pregnancy, which can feel confusing — but this is usually normal and related to the stretching and adjustments the body goes through. Ligament pain can feel like little lightning strikes or twinges, especially when you make sudden movements like rising quickly, turning in bed, or sneezing.
When ligament pain starts varies greatly from pregnancy to pregnancy, but many pregnant people describe it especially in the early weeks — typically around weeks 15–20, though for some it appears earlier. For others, ligament pain can also occur in the third trimester, when the uterus has reached its full size and the strain on the ligaments is significant. Although it can be uncomfortable, ligament pain is completely normal and harmless — the body is simply making room for the baby. You can help yourself by moving a little more slowly and carefully when you feel the pain, and by allowing yourself short breaks during the day. Heat (for example a warm bath or a warming roll-on like our HEAT) can also provide relief.
If you want to know more about natural pain relief, you can read our guide:
Heat and magnesium as natural relief for menstrual discomfort.
However, you should contact your doctor or midwife if the pain is very severe, constant and not relieved by rest, or if you also experience bleeding or other symptoms that worry you.
Read also: Bleeding during pregnancy — what you need to know
Vaginal discharge during pregnancy – what is normal?
Besides ligament pain, most pregnant people experience increased discharge. You may feel like you have a lot more discharge than before — and although it can be bothersome, it’s actually the body’s way of protecting you and your baby. Normal discharge during pregnancy is whitish or clear, slightly thick or mucous in texture, and typically has no smell or only a faint acidic scent.
The increased discharge is caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow, which make the mucous membranes extra moist. The amount varies, and for some pregnant people panty liners are necessary to feel comfortable. Increased discharge during pregnancy is a common result of hormonal changes and increased blood supply to the genital area.
Although a lot of discharge can be irritating, it is usually normal. Just ensure good intimate hygiene with mild, fragrance-free soap externally and cotton underwear that lets the skin breathe. Avoid excessive washing or internal cleansing, as this can disturb the natural balance.
Read also our guide on softening and moisturizing products for winter, if you want to take extra good care of your skin during pregnancy.
When is discharge a sign of infection?
Although most discharge is harmless, you should react if it changes noticeably. Watch out for the following signs, which may indicate an infection:
- Strong odor (fishy, sour or rotten)
- Green, grayish or strongly yellow discharge
- Itching, burning or irritation
These symptoms can indicate an infection that can be easily treated by a doctor. The same applies if you get heavy white discharge with clumps and itching — this may be a yeast infection, which is also common during pregnancy and easy to treat.
What about brown or bloody discharge?
A small amount of brown discharge is often just old blood and can occur after sex or an internal examination. It is usually harmless. But if you experience active fresh bleeding, you should contact your doctor or midwife for a check-up.
If you are interested, you can read: Bleeding during pregnancy — what you need to know
Late in pregnancy you may notice more watery or thin discharge, which is often normal. If you experience larger amounts of clear fluid, you should have it checked to see if it could be amniotic fluid leaking.
Even in the final weeks of pregnancy, your body can surprise you with new or more pronounced sensations. This applies both to discharge and the physical discomforts that come with a growing baby. Many pregnant people experience increased downward pressure and a heavier feeling in the pelvic area during this period. This may also be when ligament pain returns — especially when the uterus is at its largest and the body is preparing for birth. Remember that this is completely normal, and small adjustments in your daily routine can make a big difference for both comfort and peace of mind.
Good advice — how to take good care of yourself:
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Keep good intimate hygiene, but wash only externally with water and possibly a mild, fragrance-free soap
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Wear cotton underwear that allows the skin to breathe
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Panty liners are okay — choose unfragranced ones and change them often
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Always contact your doctor or midwife if your discharge suddenly changes character, smells bad, or if you feel worried.
If you need extra comfort and peace of mind, you can read our guide about magnesium for pregnant people: peace and comfort for the body.
Remember: Increased discharge and ligament pain are most often natural signs that your body is taking care of you and your baby. Be kind to yourself, and never hesitate to seek advice from a professional if you need extra reassurance.
FAQ about ligament pain
What does ligament pain feel like?
Ligament pain often feels like stabbing or shooting pains low in the abdomen or toward the groin. Some describe it as little lightning strikes or a quick tug, especially when standing up, turning in bed, or sneezing. For others it can resemble mild menstrual cramps.
When in pregnancy do you get ligament pain?
Most experience ligament pain from around weeks 15–20, but it can certainly start earlier or later. Some feel it especially in the third trimester, when the uterus is largest.
Are ligament pains dangerous?
No, ligament pains are completely normal and harmless. They are caused by the body making room for your growing baby. But if the pain is very severe, constant, or accompanied by bleeding, you should always contact your doctor or midwife.
How can I relieve ligament pain?
Take it easy, move slowly, and give yourself short breaks. Heat — for example a warm bath or a warming roll-on like HEAT — can also provide relief. Lie down if you have the opportunity
