The good news is that most of the time, this type of discomfort is just a normal part of your conception. Understanding the reasons behind this, how common it is, and when you must consult a doctor can help you feel supported and better prepared.
In this article:
What Does Sharp Groin Pain Feel Like in Pregnancy?
Sharp groin pain is usually described as:- Pain on one or both sides of the groin
- A sharp, sudden pain
- Pain that worsens with movement
- Pain that gets better with rest
Why Does Standing Up Suddenly Trigger Groin Discomfort?
Sudden movements put pressure on your muscles, joints, and ligaments that are already under pressure during pregnancy. When you suddenly stand up, your body may take time to adjust, which can cause groin pain.Is Round Ligament Pain the Main Cause?
Yes, mostly the round ligament pain, which is a common pregnancy condition, causes such discomfort. The round ligaments support your uterus and stretch when the womb expands. In the last months of pregnancy, your uterus gets significantly bigger. At times, it can weigh five to ten times its normal weight. Because of all this stretching, you might feel a sudden pain if you move too quickly.How Hormones Can Cause Groin Pain?
During pregnancy, hormones such as relaxin loosen the joints and ligaments in your pelvis. This process gets your body ready for childbirth, but makes your joints unstable. If you suddenly move, the loosened ligaments could stretch quickly, causing sudden, intense groin or pelvic pain.Can a Growing Foetus Make This Pain Worse?
Yes. As your baby grows and gains weight, often reaching 2.5 to 3.5 kg near term, there's intense pressure on your pelvis and adjoining muscles. When the baby's position changes, it may temporarily strain nerves and ligaments, causing pain from sudden movements.Could Pelvic Girdle Be Involved?
In some individuals, intense groin discomfort is related to pelvic girdle pain (PGP). This condition affects the joints connecting the pelvic bones. Signs of pelvic girdle pain include:- Soreness in the hips, groin, or lower back
- Unbearable discomfort while walking, standing on one leg, or climbing stairs
- Pain that aggravates with movement
When Not to Worry About Sharp Pain:
Groin pain is generally not alarming if:- It doesn’t persist
- Rest makes it feel better
- It happens mostly when you make sudden movements
- You don’t have any bleeding or fever
When Should You Be Concerned?
Contact your doctor if the discomfort:- Comes with vaginal bleeding
- Causes difficulty walking
- Is associated with high temperature or burning sensation while urinating
- Occurs with contractions before week 37
How Can You Safely Reduce Sharp Groin Pain?
You may not eliminate the pain, but these steps can help reduce its intensity and frequency.A maternity support belt can be a good way to relieve pressure on your pelvic floor.
Try Gentle Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises and prenatal stretches can strengthen your muscles. Ask your doctor before starting any new workout routine.Take Breaks
Being tired can make the pain feel worse. Rest during the day may help your body recover.Use Warm Compress
Putting a warm compress on your lower belly or groin can help loosen tight muscles.What Should You Do to Avoid Pain Worsening?
- Standing on one leg while getting ready
- Lifting heavy objects
- Sitting in a cross-legged position for a long time
- Ignoring pain and pushing through discomfort
Social & Emotional Aspects
Dealing with major discomfort during pregnancy can really affect your confidence and how you feel emotionally every day. Even regular activities might make you feel anxious or annoyed. Talking to your family and friends about things concerning you can really lighten the load. Also, practical help, such as sharing household responsibilities, can make a big difference in how comfortable you feel and how you are doing emotionally.What to Do Next?
- Stand up gently with support
- Use a cushion for pelvic support while resting
- Stay active by practising light movements
- Understand how the discomfort feels and when it happens
- If the discomfort aggravates, seek medical help
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Why Sharp Groin Pain Happens When You Stand Up Quickly While Pregnant
- Could your baby suffer from the groin pain that affects you?
The discomfort doesn’t harm your baby; it primarily affects your muscles and ligaments. - Does groin pain intensify during labour?
It could. As your pelvis relaxes and your baby prepares to be born, this may increase discomfort. - Will I recover from the pain postpartum?
For most, groin discomfort doesn’t stay in the postpartum phase, because the hormone levels get adjusted and the pelvic area recovers.
