Groin pain in late pregnancy: causes and care

Late pregnancy shifts the centre of gravity and can make the pelvis and hips work differently. Discomfort may be felt where the inner thigh meets the pelvis, across the pubic area, or deep in the hip. Rolling in bed, walking, climbing steps, or getting out of a chair can expose the irritated tissues. Hip impingement, a labral tear, or osteoarthritis are possible hip-related explanations, but location alone does not diagnose any of them. A clinician can distinguish muscular, pelvic, hip, urinary, and maternity causes by asking about the pattern and examining you.

Pace activities and take breaks before pain becomes intense. Sit down to put on clothes, avoid standing on one leg, and keep your legs together when turning or getting out of bed if that feels better. Supportive footwear and a comfortable side-lying position may help. Discuss heat, cold, medication, or a pelvic support with your maternity team before using them. A physiotherapist can show gentle, pregnancy-appropriate strengthening and movement strategies.

Seek maternity advice promptly if groin pain comes with bleeding, fluid leakage, regular contractions, fever, dizziness, painful urination, or a change in fetal movement. Urgent assessment is appropriate for sudden severe pain, a fall, inability to bear weight, or feeling very unwell. For pain that remains mild but interferes with sleep, work, or walking, book a review rather than repeatedly pushing through it.

Ask what pattern fits pelvic girdle pain, whether your activities need modifying, which exercises are suitable, and whether a physiotherapy referral would help. Clarify which medicines are safe for you and exactly when to contact maternity triage.