Pregnancy is an exciting time for most women, but it can also be hard on the body. Between the extra weight and loosened ligaments, there is no shortage of pain and discomfort. Most of the pain and aches dissipate once the baby is delivered, but some don’t. Hip pain can occur after a vaginal or cesarean section delivery, and it is important to seek medical advice if the discomfort persists.
Hip pain after a C-section can be caused by several factors, including the surgical incision site, prolonged sitting or weight bearing, and sciatic nerve compression. To help relieve the pain, it is a good idea to take over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce inflammation and swelling. In some cases, physical therapy can help ease the pain by improving the range of motion and strengthening the muscles around the hip joint.
A c-section can cause a condition called piriformis syndrome, in which the piriformis muscle in the buttock compresses the sciatic nerve. This causes pain, tingling, and numbness in the hip and leg. To help with this, you should try to avoid long periods of sitting or standing, and engage in gentle stretching exercises. You can also use a Lidoderm patch, which is a topical numbing medication that provides relief for up to 12 hours.
Many women with hip pain after a c-section ignore it, thinking that it is normal for their bodies to feel like this. However, these lingering symptoms are often a warning sign of a larger issue and should not be ignored for too long.