Relax, it’s Relaxin!

Have you found that you can finally do those bendy poses in your yoga class you’ve been working for so long on? Does your low back and hips already feel like there is a bowling ball sitting in them even though you’re only in your first trimester?

Relax, it’s just relaxin!

What it is

Relaxin is a hormone produced in the ovaries and the placenta. 

What it does 

Its job is in its name. It loosens and relaxes joints and ligaments, as well as softens and widens the cervix. So in case you ever wonder how your body is going to fit a human through your pelvis,  

Discomforts it may cause 

Unfortunately, relaxin does not discriminate what joints and ligaments it affects. This can lead to discomfort in fingers, wrists, knees, and most commonly, hips and low back. 

What you can do about it

• Take it slow. You may be tempted to quit your job and become a contortionist, but try not to do more stretching than you are already used to. Over stretching can lead to injury.

• Talk to your provider about pelvis support bands if your discomfort is too much. They can also refer you to a physical therapist.

• See a chiropractor who is trained in the Webster technique. In Asheville, my go to is Radius Chiropractic.

Relaxin doesn’t affect every person the same way. As always, never hesitate to reach out to your provider (or doula) with any questions or concerns about all the fun new things your pregnant body is going through.