Hips Widening During Pregnancy: Everything You Need To Know

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that brings a lot of changes to a woman’s body. One of the most significant changes is the widening of the hips. This happens due to the body’s preparation for childbirth. However, many women are not aware of this change and get worried about their bodies. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about hips widening during pregnancy.

Why Do Hips Widening Happen During Pregnancy?

As mentioned earlier, the widening of hips is a natural process that occurs during pregnancy. The female body prepares for childbirth by releasing a hormone called relaxin. This hormone helps to loosen the ligaments in the pelvis, allowing the baby to pass through the birth canal easily. This process causes the hips to widen.

How Much Do Hips Widening During Pregnancy?

The amount of hip widening varies from woman to woman. On average, the hips can widen up to 2-3 inches during pregnancy. The process usually starts in the second trimester and continues until the end of the pregnancy.

Is Hips Widening Permanent?

No, hips widening is not permanent. After childbirth, the body goes through a process called involution, where the body returns to its pre-pregnancy state. This process can take up to six weeks. During this time, the hips will gradually return to their normal size.

Can You Prevent Hips Widening During Pregnancy?

No, you cannot prevent hips widening during pregnancy. It is a natural process that occurs due to the body’s preparation for childbirth. However, you can do exercises that can help strengthen your pelvic muscles, making childbirth easier.

How to Deal with Hips Widening During Pregnancy?

Hips widening can be uncomfortable for some women. Here are some tips to help deal with it:

1. Wear comfortable clothes

Wearing comfortable clothes can help relieve some of the discomfort caused by hips widening. Avoid tight-fitting clothes that may put pressure on your hips.

2. Use a pregnancy pillow

Using a pregnancy pillow can help support your hips, making sleeping more comfortable.

3. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise, such as walking and swimming, can help strengthen your pelvic muscles, making childbirth easier.

4. Take warm baths

Taking warm baths can help relax your muscles and relieve some of the discomfort caused by hips widening.

When to See a Doctor?

Hips widening is a natural process during pregnancy. However, if you experience severe pain or discomfort, you should see a doctor. They can recommend exercises or prescribe medication to alleviate the pain.

Conclusion

Hips widening during pregnancy is a natural process that occurs due to the body’s preparation for childbirth. It can be uncomfortable for some women, but it is not permanent. After childbirth, the body returns to its pre-pregnancy state, and the hips gradually return to their normal size. If you experience severe pain or discomfort, you should see a doctor.