When Does Your Hips Start To Widen During Pregnancy?

Introduction

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey that every woman goes through. It is a life-changing experience that brings many changes to the body, mind, and soul. One of the significant changes that a woman experiences during pregnancy is the widening of the hips. The hips’ widening is a natural process that helps the body prepare for childbirth. In this article, we will discuss when your hips start to widen during pregnancy.

What are Hips?

The hips are part of the skeletal system that is located in the lower part of the body. The hips consist of the pelvis, which is the bony structure that connects the legs to the spine. The hips play a crucial role in supporting the weight of the body and helping us move.

Why Do Hips Widen During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body undergoes several changes to prepare for childbirth. The hips’ widening is one of the significant changes that occur during pregnancy. The widening of the hips is necessary to make the birth canal wider, allowing the baby to pass through easily. The hormone relaxin is responsible for loosening the ligaments and joints in the hips, making them more flexible and allowing them to widen.

When Do Hips Start to Widen During Pregnancy?

The hips start to widen during the second trimester of pregnancy. This is usually around 14 to 24 weeks of pregnancy. However, every woman’s body is different, and some women may experience hip widening earlier or later than others. The widening of the hips continues throughout the pregnancy and may continue even after childbirth.

How Does the Hips Widening Affect the Body?

The widening of the hips can have both positive and negative effects on the body. On the positive side, the hips’ widening helps the body prepare for childbirth and makes it easier for the baby to pass through the birth canal. It also helps improve the body’s balance and stability, making it easier to carry the extra weight during pregnancy. On the negative side, the hips’ widening can cause discomfort and pain in the lower back, hips, and legs. The loosening of the ligaments and joints in the hips can also increase the risk of injury and strain in these areas.

How to Relieve Hip Pain During Pregnancy?

There are several ways to relieve hip pain during pregnancy. These include:

• Exercising regularly
• Stretching and yoga
• Wearing comfortable shoes
• Using a pregnancy pillow
• Applying heat or cold therapy
• Taking a warm bath

Conclusion

The widening of the hips is a natural process that occurs during pregnancy. It is essential to prepare the body for childbirth and make it easier for the baby to pass through the birth canal. While the widening of the hips can cause discomfort and pain, there are ways to relieve it. By taking care of your body during pregnancy, you can ensure a healthy and smooth delivery.