Lightning crotch refers to a sharp, shooting pain in the crotch area, mainly the pelvis, rectum, and vagina, as you near your due date. Several would-be-mothers describe this pain as the “jab or punch” in the crotch from the inside. Some mothers say that it feels like the baby is poking them with a knife from the inside. So, why does lightning crotch occur, and is it normal? Read on to know more about lightning crotch, its symptoms, and natural ways to manage it.
What Is Lightning Crotch And What Does It Feel Like?
Lightning crotch is an occasional, sudden and stabbing nerve pain across the pelvis, vulva or the rectum. You may experience it when you are nearing the due date. It is a sudden flash of pain, like an electric shock, that radiates down the legs (1). The pain can occur any time of the day or night, and usually happens when you are in one position for extended periods. For instance, you may experience this pain if you have been sleeping in one position, sitting in the car or in front of the computer for many hours.
Is Lightning Crotch Normal, And When Does It Happen?
Yes, lightning crotch is normal in pregnant women. The pain signals that you are getting closer to your due date. Some women may also experience the pain several weeks before they enter into labor.
Is Lightning Crotch A Sign That You Are In Labor?
Lightning crotch might be a sign that labor is nearing, but not necessarily a sign of active labor. It might occur on and off throughout the gestational period but is more common in the final trimester. If you are frequently experiencing this condition before the 37th week of pregnancy, then it is a cause for concern.
What Causes Lightning Crotch?
There could be many reasons for the flashing and lightning pain, but the pressure built on the nerves around the cervix is the primary cause. The other possible causes of lightning crotch include: Keep reading to know about the accompanying symptoms of the condition.
What Are The Symptoms Of Lightning Crotch?
The characteristic symptom of the lightning crotch is a stabbing pain around the vaginal region. As the baby descends into the birth canal, you will experience other symptoms such as:
Constipation
Reduced heartburn, since the baby moves down into the birthing position
Frequent urination
Urinary incontinence
Ability to breathe easily, as the baby drops into the pelvis, taking off the pressure on the lungs and chest
If these symptoms are frequent and are accompanied by serious symptoms such as fever, severe headaches, reduced or absent fetal movements, abnormal vaginal discharge, bleeding or spotting, see a doctor.
Natural Ways To Deal With Lightning Crotch
Lightening crotch is a brief discomfort that you may experience towards the end of the pregnancy. You may try a few natural remedies to get relief from the pain. Then again, it might take some trial and error to find which remedy works the best for you. Walking, sitting or leaning on an exercise ball, pelvic rocks, forward-leaning inversions, cardio and lots of stretching will support the round ligaments, balance the pelvic area and bring the baby to an optimal position, minimizing the frequency of lightning crotch. Next, we answer some of the frequent queries on lightning crotch. You can ask your doctor certain questions to rule out any other reasons for the discomfort. √ Should I get checked for dilation? √ Am I having any signs of infection? √ Is my baby in the correct position? √ Can I do any exercises to get my baby in the right position for labor?
