Pregnancy Aches: What’s Normal — and What You Don’t Have to ‘Just Put Up With’

Pregnancy changes your body in incredible ways. Magical? Yes. Comfortable all the time? Absolutely not.

While some aches are expected, pain is not something you have to accept as “just part of being pregnant.” At BodyRight Physiotherapy, we regularly see women who’ve been told to rest, use crutches and a belt, or “it’ll pass” — all while wincing every time they roll over in bed.

The good news? Many pregnancy aches have very real, very treatable causes.

Why Pregnancy Aches Happen (It’s Not Just the Bump)

During pregnancy, your body is adapting constantly. Hormones increase joint laxity, posture shifts forward as your baby grows, and muscles are working in ways they didn’t sign up for pre-pregnancy.

One common change is an increased lumbar lordosis — that deeper curve in the lower back as your centre of gravity shifts. It’s your body’s way of staying upright, but it can place extra strain on the lower back and hips (and make standing in queues far less fun).

Other women experience pelvic girdle pain (PGP), where the joints of the pelvis don’t transfer load as smoothly as before. This can lead to pain when walking, climbing stairs, standing on one leg, or turning in bed — often at 3am, just to keep things interesting.

Some develop pubic symphysis dysfunction (PSD), causing pain at the front of the pelvis or groin. Simple movements like getting out of the car, putting on socks, or rolling over can suddenly feel like extreme sports.

Common Pregnancy Aches We See

At BodyRight Physiotherapy, we see all of the above plus lots of other patterns of pain common in pregnancy-related aches include lower and mid back pain, pelvic or groin pain, hip discomfort, pain with walking or standing, difficulty turning in bed, and general stiffness or tension.

These symptoms may be common — but they are not something you need to silently endure while counting down the weeks.

Mild, short-lived discomfort can be part of pregnancy. However, pain that keeps returning, worsens with movement, affects sleep, or makes you anxious about moving is not something you have to “just put up with.”

If pain is stopping you from enjoying daily life — or even those gentle spring walks everyone keeps recommending — it’s worth getting support.

How Pregnancy Physiotherapy Helps

At BodyRight Physiotherapy, our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapists assess how your body is adapting to pregnancy — not just where it hurts.

A pregnancy physiotherapy assessment may include looking at posture and movement, assessing pelvic and hip function, identifying overloaded or under-supported areas, and providing practical advice for daily movement, sleep positions, and activity.

Treatment focuses on easing pain, improving pelvic and spinal support, restoring movement confidence, and helping your body cope better with the changes ahead — all without pushing through pain or “just being brave about it.”

Is Physiotherapy Safe During Pregnancy?

Yes — pregnancy physiotherapy is safe when delivered by trained professionals. Our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapists tailor every session to your stage of pregnancy and comfort level.

No aggressive techniques, no pressure, and no expectation that you should “push through” discomfort. Supportive, calm care that should feel lovely— as it should be. 

When Should You Seek Help?

You may benefit from pregnancy physiotherapy if pain affects walking, sleep, or daily tasks; turning in bed feels like a three-point turn; movement feels uncomfortable or worrying; or symptoms are increasing rather than settling.

Early support often prevents pain from worsening as pregnancy progresses — leaving you more comfortable as spring arrives and energy (hopefully) returns.

We also teach Pregnancy Pilates by Women’s Health Physiotherapist Orlagh Gaynor,  which is a great way to keep you strong and feeling great through pregnancy, as well as preparing you for the birth and beyond. Combining gentle core and general strengthening, easing tensions with gorgeous breath work and stretches. Mums to be often say they sleep so well after the classes. 

Pregnancy Physiotherapy at BodyRight Physiotherapy

At BodyRight Physiotherapy Clinic in Drogheda, our Specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapists provide calm, professional, and compassionate pregnancy care.

Our goal is to help you feel supported, informed, and confident in your body — so you can focus on growing a human, not managing pain.

📍 BodyRight Physiotherapy Clinic, Drogheda

📅 Pregnancy physiotherapy appointments available

You don’t have to put up with pain to protect your baby — supporting your body supports both of you.