Pelvic Changes in Early Pregnancy: Understanding Hip and Buttock Pain

Question
Thank you for your response. I feel alot less worried now.
I am 12 weeks pregnant, I started to have aches and pains in my hips and my butt. I feel like I am a old women with arthritis. It feels like my bones hurt. Is that the pelvis starting to flex open?
thanks

Answer
That is exactly what is happening.  The relaxin in your system is starting to cause all of your ligaments to loosen up, not just the ones in your pelvis.  Your feet will grow, up to a full shoe size or more, and your whole body will feel looser.  You'll be more prone to sprains and strains during this time, so take it easy on your joints.

After consulting with your doctor, of course, you may want to consider starting a gentle strength training program.  Building muscle helps support your joints, and may reduce the amount of discomfort you are feeling.