25/10/2026
3 things nobody tells you about sciatica during pregnancy 🤰🏼
That shooting pain from your bum down your leg? You might be tempted to stretch your hamstrings and hope it goes away.
But here’s what I wish more pregnant women knew… 👇
✨ 1. More stretching isn’t always the answer.
Pain travelling down your leg can have different causes, including irritation of nerves in your lower back. For some people, repeatedly pulling into a stretch can aggravate symptoms rather than help. Try changing position and exploring gentle, comfortable hip and pelvic movements instead.
✨ 2. Staying completely still might not help.
If movement feels comfortable, gentle walking and changing positions regularly may help you manage symptoms. You don’t need to push through pain, though — find what works for your body.
✨ 3. Your body may benefit from the right support.
Depending on what’s causing your symptoms, appropriate exercises to support your hips and trunk may help. The key is finding movements that don’t aggravate your pain, rather than following a generic routine.
🤍 One important thing: Not all pain travelling down the leg during pregnancy is sciatica, so don’t assume you know the cause. If your pain is persistent, severe or worsening, speak to your midwife, GP or a physiotherapist.
Seek urgent medical assessment if you develop new or progressive leg weakness, numbness around your ge****ls or bottom, or difficulty controlling your bladder or bowels.
You don’t have to simply put up with pain because you’re pregnant — and you don’t have to stretch your way through it!
Save this for later and share it with a pregnant friend who needs to hear it. 🤍