What does lightning crotch mean?
Lightning crotch refers to sharp or shooting pain in the vagina, rectum, or pelvis. It usually occurs during pregnancy. The pain comes on suddenly and can stop someone in their tracks. Some people describe the pain as feeling like an electrical bolt or zap from the inside, which is where the condition gets its name.
When do you get lightning crotch in pregnancy?
Lightning crotch pain can feel a lot like round ligament pain but there are key differences: Round ligament pain is more common in the second trimester as your uterus grows, but lightning crotch pain generally happens at the end of the third trimester.
Does lightning crotch mean dilation or effacement?
In some women, lightning pain is the first sign that they’re in labor. Some women can even feel their cervix as it dilates. If you’re experiencing lightning pain and have any other symptoms like regular contractions, consistent backache, or any leaking of fluid, you might be in labor.
What is lightning crotch if not pregnant?
Ovulation. Sometimes ordinary body functions can feel like lightning crotch. “Many normal things, such as ovulation, can cause the nerve to interpret the signals as pain, therefore the sensation of lightning.
How do you stop lightning crotch?
Preventing Lightning Crotch Pain
- Change positions throughout the day.
- Exercise regularly (cardio and stretching) to keep the pelvis and hips flexible.
- Wear a belly support belt to relieve pelvic pressure.
- Relax tight muscles with a prenatal massage or warm bath.
Is lightning crotch constant?
Symptoms of lightning crotch vary from person to person. Some pregnant people don’t experience lightning crotch at all, some experience it only intermittently, and some experience it very frequently. You may experience lightning crotch more often in one pregnancy and not at all in another.
Does lightning crotch mean baby is coming soon?
Even though lightning crotch pain happens late in the third trimester, it’s not a sign of impending labor. However, some women might confuse intense lightning pain for contractions—especially if they’re a first-time mom.
Why do I feel electric shocks in my pelvic area?
An injury, surgery, or growth can put pressure on this nerve in the area where it enters or leaves the pelvis. Pudendal nerve entrapment causes nerve pain. This feels like an electric shock or deep aching pain in the genitals, the area between the genitals and rectum (perineum), and around the rectum.
Does everyone get lightning crotch pregnant?
You can expect the lightning crotch pain to go away after your little one is born. It’s also important to note that not every person experiences this sensation during pregnancy.
How can I relieve SPD in pregnancy?
There are some things you can do to ease your discomfort if you’re suffering from this pregnancy symptom, including:
- Avoid triggers as much as you can.
- Apply a heating pad or ice pack to the pubic bone.
- Wear a pelvic support belt.
- Do your Kegels and pelvic tilts.
- Ask for pain relief.
- Consider physical therapy.