For most people, this kind of pressure is a normal part of the pregnancy journey. Still, it is completely natural to wonder whether it is something to worry about.
What Does Vaginal Pressure Feel Like During Pregnancy?
These are some common ways vaginal pressure can feel during pregnancy:- A dull ache across your pelvis or hips
- A sensation of fullness or heaviness inside the vagina
- A feeling that something is “bearing down” on your lower body
- Sometimes sharper twinges when you walk, climb stairs, or go over bumps in the car
- Aching in the lower back that comes and goes
Why Does Vaginal Pressure Occur in the First Trimester?
In the early weeks, your baby is still tiny, so the pressure isn’t from weight yet. Instead, it’s usually because of:- Hormonal changes: Relaxin helps soften ligaments and muscles to prepare your body for pregnancy, but in the first trimester, its levels are starting to rise and can contribute to a sense of pelvic heaviness or mild discomfort.
- Expanding uterus: Your uterus begins to expand even in the first trimester, which can create a sensation similar to mild period-like cramps or pressure in the lower abdomen and pelvic area.
- Constipation: This is very common in early pregnancy due to hormonal changes and iron in prenatal vitamins. Hard stools can create a feeling of fullness or pressure in the pelvic region.
- Round ligament pain: Some people feel occasional twinges or pulling sensations in the lower belly or groin as the ligaments supporting the uterus begin to stretch.
Why Does Vaginal Pressure Occur in the Second and Third Trimesters?
As your bump gets bigger, the reasons change:- Baby’s weight: As your baby grows, the added weight presses directly on your pelvic floor, creating a feeling of heaviness or pressure.
- Pelvic floor stretching: The extra load can weaken or stretch the pelvic floor muscles. This may contribute to a sensation of fullness or sagging.
- Relaxin effects on joints: The hormone relaxin continues to loosen ligaments and joints, which may cause some people to feel wobbly legs or discomfort near the pubic bone.
- Baby “dropping” (lightening): In the final weeks, the baby may descend into the pelvis, intensifying pressure.
- Pelvic girdle pain (symphysis pubis dysfunction): Some people experience sharp jolts or discomfort when moving, standing, or rolling over in bed due to extra strain on the pelvic joints.
What Other Factors Can Cause or Worsen Vaginal Pressure During Pregnancy
Some issues can add to the sensation, no matter how far along you are:- Bladder or urine infections
- Bacterial vaginosis or yeast infections
- Pelvic organ prolapse (when organs slip downwards)
- A weak cervix (cervical insufficiency)
- Fibroids growing because of pregnancy hormones
- Pre-existing problems like ovarian cysts or endometriosis flaring up
How to Manage Vaginal Pressure During Pregnancy
You don’t have to just put up with vaginal pressure in pregnancy. These steps often bring real relief:- Lie on your side and breathe slowly for a few minutes.
- Do gentle pelvic tilts or rolls on the floor.
- Take a warm (not hot) bath or aim the shower at your lower back.
- Wear a maternity support belt or belly sling to lift the weight off your pelvis.
- Avoid sudden twisting; turn your whole body instead.
- Sit whenever you can and put your feet up.
- Try pregnancy yoga or gentle stretching for your back and hips.
- Apply a low-heat pad for no longer than 10 minutes.
- Do Kegel exercises. Squeeze the pelvic floor muscles (as if stopping urine) for 10 seconds, relax, repeat 10 times, twice a day.
- Keep walking or doing light exercise. It strengthens muscles and improves posture.
- Stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
- Book a prenatal massage or see a pregnancy-trained physiotherapist or chiropractor.
When To Seek Medical Help
While vaginal pressure is often a normal part of pregnancy, certain signs mean it’s time to check in with your doctor:- Sharp or severe pain (not just pressure) that makes it difficult to walk, stand, or talk normally.
- Regular tightening or cramps that come and go like contractions.
- Any bleeding or spotting.
- Clear fluid leaking (your waters may have broken).
- Burning or pain during urination, fever, or feeling generally unwell.
- Sudden swelling of hands, face, or feet.
- Severe headache or dizziness.
- Feeling something bulging into your vagina or a sudden loss of bladder/bowel control.
- Baby is moving less than usual.
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.
In this article:
FAQs on What Causes Vaginal Pressure During Pregnancy and How to Manage It
- Can carrying multiples cause vaginal pressure in pregnancy?
Yes, carrying twins or more increases the weight and strain on the pelvic floor. This can make vaginal pressure more noticeable and sometimes uncomfortable. - Can carrying heavy objects worsen vaginal pressure during pregnancy?
Yes, lifting heavy items adds extra strain to the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, which can intensify the feeling of pressure or heaviness.
