Medically reviewed by M. Thurairaj, Registered physiotherapist. · Last reviewed June 2026.
Why it happens
During pregnancy, hormonal changes loosen the ligaments around the pelvis to prepare for birth, and the growing bump shifts posture and load. This can lead to aching or sharp pain around the pelvis and hips, often worse with activities that load one leg, like stairs or getting out of a car. It is common and usually eases after birth.
What can help day to day
Your maternity team or a women health physiotherapist can offer tailored advice, which may include movement modifications, support belts, and gentle exercises. Practical tips like keeping the knees together when turning in bed or getting in and out of a car, and avoiding activities that clearly aggravate it, often help. Always follow guidance from the professionals managing your pregnancy.
A careful, guided role for massage
Pregnancy massage is a specialised area with specific precautions, and it should only be considered after checking with your maternity team and with a suitably experienced therapist. Where appropriate, gentle work may ease some of the muscular tension that builds around the hips and back. We will always prioritise safety, defer to your maternity team, and never push anything that is not clearly suitable.
Key takeaways
- Pelvic girdle pain is common as ligaments loosen
- It often eases after birth
- Follow your maternity team and consider women health physio
- Pregnancy massage is specialised — get clearance first
Frequently asked questions
Is pelvic girdle pain normal in pregnancy?
It is common as ligaments loosen and posture changes, and usually eases after birth. Always raise it with your maternity team, who can offer tailored advice.
Can I have a massage for pregnancy pelvic pain?
Possibly, but only after checking with your maternity team and with a suitably experienced therapist, as pregnancy massage is specialised and needs specific precautions.