[Ask Deb]

I am in my 17th week and am often having some pretty painful "round ligament" stretching. Sometimes it hurts so much that it makes it hard to cough or sneeze or really move around freely. Are there any stretches or exercises that can be done to help alleviate this?

Also, I love doing inversions. Is it still safe to do them?

Thanks,
Jeanne
Bronx, NY

[Deb]

Hi Jeanne

The round ligament pains should subside within the next few weeks.
Many women find squatting to help release the pressure and discomfort
of this pain.

But keep in mind, ligaments do not have the same elasticity as
muscles, so they are harder to stretch and should not be over
stretched. That is why the body releases relaxin.

As for inversions. Some women find comfort in shoulder stand or
headstand. I only recommend headstand if you have a very strong
practice and really feel understand using the upper body to support
your headstand and not put a lot of pressure in the neck. Remember
because of the relaxin, the ligaments, tendons and muscles are
softened.

Hope this helps!

Take care

Deb