Severe groin pain during pregnancy: what to know

Pregnancy changes posture, joint loading and the way the abdominal and pelvic muscles work. Pain may come from stretched adductor muscles, irritation around the pubic region, or pelvic girdle strain. Hip conditions such as hip impingement, a hip labral tear or hip osteoarthritis can also cause groin symptoms, although pain alone cannot identify the cause. Note whether the pain is one-sided, linked to turning in bed or stairs, accompanied by swelling, or associated with abdominal, urinary or vaginal symptoms.

Reduce activities that sharply increase pain, take shorter steps, and keep both legs together when getting out of bed or a car. Supportive footwear and a pillow between the knees may help. Do not force a stretch or begin strengthening exercises without pregnancy-aware advice. A clinician or physiotherapist can assess your hip and pelvis and adapt movement safely; sports physiotherapy is not automatically suitable during pregnancy unless the programme is modified.

Contact your maternity team or clinician promptly for severe, worsening or unremitting pain, inability to bear weight, fever, bleeding, fluid leakage, regular contractions, painful urination, marked abdominal pain, leg swelling, chest symptoms, weakness or numbness. Seek emergency help for collapse, heavy bleeding, severe breathlessness or sudden neurological changes.

Ask what examination is appropriate at your stage of pregnancy, whether the pain fits pelvic girdle or hip strain, which pain-relief options are suitable, and which movements or warning signs should change your plan.