Priyanka Malhotra Priyanka Malhotra Asked 4 months ago

How to ease rib pain during pregnancy?

I'm in my last trimester, and I've started feeling a lot of pain in my ribs, especially on the sides. It's uncomfortable when I sit or lie down. Is this normal, and what can I do to ease rib pain during pregnancy?

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6 answers

Priya Nair Priya Nair Joined Apr 2026 4 months ago
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Rib pain can be from your expanding uterus, but sometimes it can be linked to other issues like high blood pressure or gallbladder problems. Please get it checked by your gynecologist to be absolutely safe. Don't try to bear it if it's accompanied by swelling or headache.

Sita Lakshmi Sita Lakshmi Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

I agree, wearing loose-fitting clothes and non-wired maternity bras helps immensely to reduce pressure on your ribs.

Meera Sen Meera Sen Joined May 2026 4 months ago

My little one seems to think my rib cage is a football and is constantly practicing kicks there. I find that stretching my arms high above my head gives me a temporary few seconds of relief and breathing space. Honestly, just counting down the days until delivery now!

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Consult a obstetrics and gynaecologist

Manju Pandey Manju Pandey Joined Jan 2026 4 months ago

I totally feel your pain, rib ache made it so hard for me to sit and eat comfortably. I used to apply a mild, warm hot water bottle to the side that hurt, and slept strictly on the opposite side. Please avoid any tight elastic bands around your chest during this phase.

Arjun Deshmukh Arjun Deshmukh Joined May 2026 4 months ago

Hey, hang in there, your body is doing some amazing work right now. Since the baby is growing, they might be kicking or pushing up against your rib cage. Try sitting as straight as possible to give your ribs more breathing room, and rest whenever you can.

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Gauriamma Pillai Gauriamma Pillai Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

In our days, we were told to avoid sitting slumped or slouching on the sofa, as it compresses the ribs and stomach. Try placing a small cushion behind your lower back to keep your chest open. A gentle warm compress can also soothe the tight rib muscles, if your doctor agrees.

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