It is common to experience rib pain during pregnancy.  As the baby grows within a woman’s womb, her uterus inevitably expands.  In time, this often results in pressure and pain in the rib area.  The various muscles that exist between each rib become strained quite easily.  This is especially true when a pregnant woman is in her second or third trimesters.  This discomfort serves to make even regular motions and normal physical activities uncomfortable.

Quick Facts On Sore Ribs During Pregnancy

From time to time some women suffer from stress fractures during pregnancy.  These can affect the mid section causing sore ribs during pregnancy.  Those who are more likely to suffer from this problem include women who have multiple pregnancies, smaller than average sized women and women who are carrying babies that are bigger than average.  Sore ribs during pregnancy have the ability to make it very hard for the expecting mom to find a sitting position that is comfortable.  Because there are nerves within the diaphragm the pain is able to be transmitted to different areas of the body, such as the shoulders.

It is more common to experience rib pain on the right side of the body than it is to feel it on the left.  For some women, however, the pain, pressure and soreness can be felt on both sides and may even result in shortness of breath.   This is caused from the excess pressure on the diaphragm resulting from the expanding uterus and the growing baby.

The Importance Of Good Posture

Near the end of the pregnancy, the new mother’s breast size is likely to increase.  This too, adds pressure to the rib cage.  In spite of this additional weight, it is imperative for women to use good posture.  Should a pregnant woman slouch forward the midsection can become compressed and create added discomfort and soreness.  Opting to wear comfortable, loose clothing and a bra that provides good support is always helpful.  Bras with underwire should be avoided, however, as this too can compound the soreness.

Rib Soreness And Hormones

Hormonal changes are a large part of any pregnancy and also serve to contribute to the sense of discomfort that many women experience.  Some of these hormones work to loosen ligaments and muscles as part of the body’s natural preparation for delivery.  This can in some instances result in unnatural shifts in the ribcage that may cause discomfort.

Some expectant mothers discover that it is more comfortable to lie down or stand up, rather than to sit.  Mild stretching activities, especially for those who find they’re pregnant over 40, such as prenatal yoga are often an effective way for dealing with pain in ribs during pregnancy.  You should, however, never attempt to ignore pain that exceeds moderate discomfort.  You should always seek advice from your OB-GYN or primary care provider when the pain begins to feel as though it is burning through the back.  This may be a sign of kidney stones, a urinary tract infection, or one of several other health issues.