Key Takeaways:

What Causes Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy: Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, during pregnancy is often caused by hormonal changes, increased weight of the uterus, and posture adjustments, which can strain and irritate the coccyx.
Common Symptoms to Watch For: Symptoms include a variety of discomforts like sharp or aching pain when sitting or changing positions, tenderness, and occasionally radiating pain to other areas like the hips or lower back.
Safe Relief Strategies That Can Help: Managing tailbone pain involves safe strategies such as gentle exercise, supportive seating, warmth or cold therapy, mindful movement, and possibly consulting healthcare providers or pelvic health specialists if the pain persists or disrupts daily life.

Pregnancy is a time of remarkable change—a journey filled with anticipation, hope, and a host of new experiences. As your body adapts to support new life, you might encounter unexpected discomforts, some occurring in places you never thought to expect. One such often-overlooked challenge is tailbone pain during pregnancy. This deep ache or soreness at the base of your spine can seem like a minor nuisance at first, but may grow into a persistent companion, affecting your day-to-day comfort and mobility.

At Blair Mauri Pelvic Health, Blair understands that each pregnancy is unique and that pain is never something you should just "live with." Whether you're sitting at a desk in Brooklyn or strolling through the parks of lower Manhattan, tailbone pain can add unnecessary stress to your journey. Our mission is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, right in the comfort of your home, to help you regain control and move through pregnancy with confidence and ease.

In this article, we'll dive into the causes and symptoms of tailbone pain during pregnancy, explore why it happens, and, most importantly, share empowering strategies to manage and relieve your discomfort. You deserve to focus on the joys of this extraordinary time, and with the right support and knowledge, you absolutely can.

What Causes Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

Tailbone pain during pregnancy—often referred to as coccydynia—can be a distressing but surprisingly common experience. While the discomfort may range from a dull ache to sharp twinges when sitting, standing, or moving, understanding the causes behind this pain can offer both reassurance and a path toward managing it effectively.

As your pregnancy progresses, your body undergoes remarkable changes to accommodate your growing baby. One of the culprits behind tailbone pain is the release of relaxin and other pregnancy hormones that naturally loosen the ligaments and joints in your pelvis. This process is designed to prepare your body for childbirth, but it also means your coccyx (tailbone) can shift more than usual, making it vulnerable to strain and irritation.

The increasing weight of your uterus is another factor. As the center of gravity shifts, extra pressure can be placed on the lower back and pelvic floor. This added weight, especially in the later trimesters, can result in the tailbone being compressed, leading to pain during everyday movements or moments of rest. Sometimes, past injuries to the tailbone—perhaps a fall years ago or lingering effects from previous pregnancies—resurface or worsen under this extra stress.

Posture changes, too, play their role. Many pregnant individuals unintentionally lean back to counterbalance their growing belly, which can change the alignment of the spine and pelvis, further aggravating the coccyx.

Lastly, constipation—a common companion during pregnancy due to hormonal shifts and prenatal vitamins—can place additional strain on the area surrounding the tailbone, sometimes intensifying pain or discomfort.

Recognizing these interconnected factors is the first step towards addressing tailbone pain and nurturing your well-being throughout pregnancy.

Symptoms Of Tailbone Pain In Pregnancy

Tailbone pain during pregnancy, also known as coccydynia, can show up in different ways—sometimes subtle, sometimes intense. For many expecting parents, this discomfort might start as a dull ache and gradually build, or even come on suddenly after a certain movement or prolonged sitting.

Here’s what to look out for:

Aching or Sharp Pain: Most commonly, people describe a deep, sore pain right at the very bottom of the spine. It might feel sharp when moving from sitting to standing, or after long periods of sitting down.
Pain When Sitting: Sitting on hard surfaces or for extended periods often makes tailbone pain worse. The ache can linger even after you stand up.
Tenderness to the Touch: The area at the base of the spine may feel sensitive, and touching it could cause discomfort or even a burning sensation.
Pain During Daily Activities: Everyday movements—like leaning forward, shifting positions in bed, or getting out of a car—can trigger discomfort near the coccyx (tailbone).
Pain during Bowel Movements: Some may notice increased pain during or after a bowel movement. Changes in digestion during pregnancy can make this symptom more noticeable.
Radiating Discomfort: Occasionally, tailbone pain can radiate to the hips, lower back, or down the legs, making it harder to pinpoint the exact source.

The symptoms can fluctuate daily, sometimes flaring up and other times easing off. Recognizing these patterns early is key to finding relief and making daily life more comfortable as your body adapts to pregnancy.

Safe Pain Relief Options During Pregnancy

Managing tailbone pain during pregnancy can feel daunting, but there are safe and effective ways to find relief without compromising your well-being or your baby's health. Understanding your options can help you stay active and comfortable as your body changes.

Gentle Movement And Exercise

Engaging in gentleactivities like walking, swimming, strength training, or pilates can help ease tailbone discomfort. These movements encourage blood flow, reduce stiffness, and strengthen muscles surrounding your pelvis. Exercises that target strengthening the back of the body (low back, glutes) are always a good idea to help support growth during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider or a pelvic health specialist before starting any new exercise routine.

Supportive Seating

Investing in a cushioned seat, birth ball, or specialized donut pillow can significantly relieve pressure on your tailbone, especially when sitting for extended periods. Adjusting your posture while sitting and standing—keeping your feet flat on the floor and avoiding slumping—can help prevent aggravation of pain.

Warmth And Cold Therapy

Applying a warm compress or heating pad (set to a low temperature) to the lower back or buttocks may soothe sore muscles and reduce pain. Alternatively, some individuals find relief with a cold pack to minimize inflammation. Use these therapies for short periods, and always place a barrier like a towel between your skin and the heat or cold source.

Mindful Movement And Positioning

When getting up from sitting or moving in bed, take things slowly. Rolling onto your side before sitting up can ease strain on the tailbone area. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing in one position to prevent stiffness from building up. Paying attention to your posture, and avoiding one where your pelvis is tucked under is also important. Over time, this can cause the tissues around your tailbone to shorten and become tense, worsening pain.

Safe Use Of Over-The-Counter Medications

Some over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, may be appropriate during pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication—even those considered safe for pregnant individuals—to ensure it’s right for you.

Remember, everyone’s experience with tailbone pain during pregnancy is unique. If pain persists, worsens, or interferes with daily life, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional who specializes in pelvic health.

Consider Alternate Pushing Positions

Many times, birthing people are asked to lie down when pushing. This can limit your sacrum and tailbones' ability to open up and allow the baby to exit. Instead, what happens is that the baby’s head is being pushed into the tailbone, which can cause bruising, shifting, and pain after delivery. Consider options such as side-lying or hands and knees, all of which are possible with an epidural. As part of her birth prep services, Blair will recommend personalized birthing positions for you based on your body and your needs to support a smooth vaginal birth and minimize risk of postpartum symptoms.

Tailbone Pain After Childbirth: What To Expect

After delivery, it’s common to experience lingering tailbone pain—sometimes called postpartum coccydynia. The tailbone (coccyx) is exposed to significant pressure and shifting during childbirth, particularly in vaginal deliveries. For some, this results in bruising, inflammation, or rarely, a small fracture of the bone itself. Immediately following birth, many parents find sitting, moving from sitting to standing, or even using the bathroom to be unexpectedly uncomfortable or even sharp and painful.

In those early days, the pain can feel like a dull ache, a vivid soreness, or a sudden jolt—especially when transitioning between positions. The body is still recalibrating after months of carrying and delivering a baby. Soft tissues that supported your tailbone during pregnancy, including ligaments and the muscles of the pelvic floor, are also recovering. All of these factors can combine to make the coccyx especially sensitive.

For most people, this discomfort gradually improves in the weeks following childbirth, as swelling decreases and tissues heal. However, the healing timeline can vary widely, influenced by factors such as delivery type, baby's position during birth, and whether any interventions (like forceps or vacuum delivery) were used. If tailbone pain lingers beyond a few weeks or becomes more intense, it may signal lingering tissue strain or pelvic floor dysfunction. Early recognition and gentle care in these first weeks are crucial for a smoother recovery.

Remember, you’re not alone—postpartum tailbone pain is a frequent, well-recognized challenge that many new parents face. With the right knowledge and supportive care, it is absolutely possible to manage pain, promote healing, and regain comfort in your daily life.

The Role of Pelvic Floor Therapy in Managing Tailbone Pain

Tailbone pain—medically known as coccydynia—is a common and frustrating experience for many during pregnancy. When simple movements like sitting, standing, or rolling over in bed become painful, it can interfere with everyday comfort and even steal joy from special moments. That’s where pelvic floor therapy can offer targeted relief and support.

Pelvic floor therapists are specialists trained to address the complex changes that occur in the pelvic region during pregnancy. Rather than focusing solely on the tailbone, they take a comprehensive approach, assessing the alignment, strength, and tension in the pelvic floor, hips, and surrounding muscles. Often, tailbone pain is linked to dysfunction in these interconnected areas due to the shifting demands of pregnancy.

Your personalized pelvic floor therapy plan may include:

Internal or external manual therapy to release tension and improve mobility in the pelvic floor and coccyx area
Therapeutic exercises that support core and pelvic stability, relieving pressure on the tailbone
Breathwork and coordination techniques to optimize muscle engagement and reduce strain
Postural and movement guidance to minimize discomfort during sitting, standing, or sleep
Comfort strategies, such as the use of cushions, support belts/kinesiotape, or positioning tips to protect the tailbone

Working with a pelvic floor therapist also means gaining insights and tools to navigate your body’s changes more confidently. This collaborative, educational approach not only helps ease current pain but also promotes long-term pelvic health—empowering you through every stage of pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

When To Seek Medical Advice For Tailbone Pain

While mild tailbone pain during pregnancy is common and often manageable with self-care, there are times when reaching out to a healthcare provider is essential for your comfort and wellbeing. Listen to your body—pain that disrupts your daily life or doesn't improve with basic interventions deserves attention.

You should consider contacting your provider if you experience any of the following:

Severe or worsening tailbone pain that interferes with walking, sleeping, or daily activities
Numbness, tingling, or shooting pain radiating down your legs
Fever, chills, or redness near the tailbone area—signs that could indicate an infection
Loss of bladder or bowel control or new-onset constipation or incontinence
Pain after a fall or injury that doesn’t subside or is accompanied by bruising or swelling
Pain that persists after pregnancy or intensifies postpartum

Additionally, if you have a history of chronic low back or pelvic pain before pregnancy, proactive communication with your healthcare providers can lead to a tailored management plan and better outcomes for both you and your baby.

Remember, seeking timely support is not only about pain relief—it’s about prioritizing your health and making sure you feel empowered and informed throughout your pregnancy.

Final Thoughts

Navigating tailbone pain during pregnancy can be a challenging and sometimes isolating experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. By understanding the causes, listening to your body, and seeking the proper support, it’s possible to find relief and reclaim comfort in your everyday life. Every pregnancy journey is unique, and so is every path toward wellness—your symptoms and solutions are valid and deserving of care that meets you where you are.

At Blair Mauri Pelvic Health, Blair believes that compassionate, evidence-based therapy should be accessible and empowering. Blair’s in-home pelvic floor therapy services are designed to support individuals throughout Brooklyn and lower Manhattan, delivering expert care directly to your door. Whether you’re dealing with tailbone pain or other pelvic floor-related challenges, our personalized approach puts your comfort, privacy, and recovery first.

Remember, you have agency in your healing process. Don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance, and never underestimate the power of small daily adjustments or professional support on your journey. With the right techniques and a committed partner in your care, you can manage—and even overcome—tailbone pain in pregnancy, embracing each stage with confidence and resilience.

Read also:

Frequently Asked Questions About Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy

What causes tailbone pain during pregnancy?

Tailbone pain, or coccydynia, during pregnancy is most often caused by hormonal changes and physical adaptations. As your body prepares for childbirth, pregnancy hormones like relaxin soften the ligaments and joints, including those around the tailbone. Meanwhile, the growing uterus and shifting posture place extra pressure on the pelvic floor and tailbone area. Everyday activities, extended sitting, or even minor bumps can also contribute to soreness or sharp pain near the base of your spine.

How common is tailbone pain among pregnant women?

Tailbone pain is a relatively common symptom in pregnancy, especially as your body progresses into the second and third trimesters. While not every pregnant individual will experience it, research suggests that up to 20% of people report pelvic or coccyx pain at some stage. At Blair Mauri Pelvic Health, Blair routinely supports individuals navigating this discomfort.

Can tailbone pain affect the baby?

While tailbone pain can be distressing and affect your comfort, it does not directly impact your baby’s health or development. Managing your pain can help you move more easily, improve your rest, and allow you to focus on your overall wellness as you prepare for birth. If pain becomes severe or interferes with daily activities, it’s always best to speak with a healthcare professional.

When during pregnancy is tailbone pain most likely to occur?

Tailbone pain can develop at any point during pregnancy, but is especially common during the later stages. The third trimester often brings increased pressure from the baby’s weight and changes in pelvic alignment. However, some individuals notice discomfort as early as the first trimester, as the body begins making hormonal adjustments for pregnancy.

Are certain women more at risk for tailbone pain during pregnancy?

Yes, some individuals are at higher risk. If you have a history of lower back or pelvic injuries, prior tailbone trauma, previous pregnancies, or have a sedentary lifestyle, you may be more prone to tailbone pain during pregnancy. People with hypermobility or pre-existing pelvic floor dysfunction can also face increased risk. At Blair Mauri Pelvic Health, Blair personalizes care plans to your history and needs.

Can poor posture contribute to tailbone pain?

Absolutely. As your posture shifts to accommodate your changing body, slouching or sitting for long periods can place extra stress on your tailbone and pelvic floor. Simple changes—like sitting on a supportive cushion or consciously adjusting your posture —can alleviate some of this discomfort. Our in-home pelvic floor therapy sessions in Brooklyn and lower Manhattan often include techniques to support healthy posture throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Understanding and Managing Tailbone Pain During Pregnancy