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Though it is a wonderful journey full of excitement and expectation, pregnancy can also cause some unpleasant experiences. One such discomfort many expectant women experience is called lightning crotch. This term may seem odd, but learning its origin and how to deal with it will help you relax.
In this blog, we will explore lightning crotch during pregnancy, its symptoms, and how to treat it with practical remedies.
What is the Lightning Crotch?
Lightening crotch during pregnancy is the abrupt, sharp, or burning nerve pain experienced in the vaginal area. Usually, this symptom is not a cause for concern, as it occurs rather frequently. It usually means that your baby is pressing against the cervix or adjacent nerves. The lowest part of the uterus, the cervix, is where your baby grows during pregnancy.
What Does It Feel Like?
Lightening crotch pain is kind of a sudden, sharp, shooting pain that can travel through the vaginal, rectal, or pelvic area. Some would liken it to a prickly sensation or a quick jab. The position of the fetus and its size will definitely affect the degree of pain. Lightening crotch in early pregnancy is characterised by the development of pressure on the cervix and surrounding nerves, unlike contractions, which involve tightening and releasing the uterus. It also distinguishes it from more generally felt and persistent menstrual cramps.
When Might Lightning Crotch Kick in?
Usually, many women experience lightning crotch pain during pregnancy in their third trimester, especially between weeks 28 and 40 of pregnancy. This shooting pain during pregnancy is mostly due to the growing fetus settling deeper into the pelvis and getting ready for delivery. Your baby gains weight, and the pressure on the cervix increases, causing that familiar lightning crotch pain.
Does a Lightning Crotch Indicate that Labour is Imminent?
Even though it may indicate that labour is imminent, a lightning crotch does not necessarily signal the end of the pregnancy journey. Many women experience this discomfort for weeks or even months prior to their last trip into labour. Healthcare professionals also rely on other symptoms, as they do not consider this shooting pain in the vagina to be a consistent sign of approaching labour.
What Causes a Lightning Crotch?
So, why does lightning crotch develop? The pressure exerted by the foetus on the cervix and surrounding nerves primarily causes this pain. The baby can cause this sudden, severe pain as it moves, by kicking, rolling, or stretching. The position of your baby actually makes a difference; although it can pop up no matter how the baby is positioned, it is typically felt when the baby is head-down and descending into the pelvis. That said, seeking medical expertise is essential for knowing the real cause of it.
How to Identify It?
The lightning crotch’s short but strong intensity makes it easy to locate. Usually lasting only for 30 to 45 seconds, the pain comes in as sharp and shooting. It could be wise to see your doctor if you are experiencing sudden, severe pain many times a day. If the pain strikes with cramps, bleeding, or leaking fluid, you should immediately get medical help.
Solutions for Lightning Crotch
Although the lightning crotch cannot be fixed, a few techniques can help reduce the pain:
Take your time. Move gently and deliberately as you get out of a car or from your bed. Sudden, sharp movements can aggravate lightning crotch pain.
Slip on a belly support band or belt to give your pelvis a break; it can help relieve pressure and perhaps reduce the frequency and intensity of that lightning crotch sensation.
Maintaining flexibility and perhaps relieving any discomfort depends on keeping up with light exercise like swimming or prenatal yoga.
Soaking in a warm bath or treating yourself to a prenatal massage will truly help relax your muscles and joints, providing some relief from that it discomfort.
Changing your posture when you have lightning crotch can help reduce the pressure that aggravates the pain.
When Should One Speak with the Doctor?
Is lightning crotch a sign of labour? No, certainly not. Though most of the time there is nothing to worry about, one should not take it lightly, either. Usually, your dull aches and pains are not worth worrying about. You should definitely contact your healthcare provider if you experience regular pain or cramps. If the pain strikes with cramps, bleeding, or leaking fluid, you should immediately get medical help.
Final Thought
Lightning crotch strikes are common and usually benign during pregnancy. Learning its causes and symptoms will enable you to properly address the pain. Keep in mind that many women go through this stage, even if your pregnancy path may seem a little challenging. You can manage this phase more easily and confidently by following some basic remedies and maintaining contact with your doctor. Remember that every difficulty moves you one step closer to embracing your little one!