Piriformis Syndrome in/after Pregnancy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Piriformis syndrome is a common condition that affects women after pregnancy. 

It is caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve by the piriformis muscle, which is located in the buttocks. 

In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for piriformis syndrome in/after pregnancy.

Why do you suffer from piriformis syndrome?

1. Changes in the body during pregnancy:

Pregnancy causes a lot of changes in the woman's body, including increased weight, hormonal changes, and changes in the alignment of the pelvis. These changes can put pressure on the piriformis muscle, causing it to compress the sciatic nerve.

2. Childbirth:

The process of childbirth can also lead to piriformis syndrome. During delivery, the baby passes through the birth canal, which can cause trauma to the pelvis, leading to nerve compression.

Pregnancy may bring you a lovely baby, or it may cause you to experience some constant pain.

1. Pain in the buttocks: This is the most common symptom of piriformis syndrome. The pain may be dull or sharp and might be located on one side of the buttocks.

2. Pain down the leg: Because the sciatic nerve runs down the leg, piriformis syndrome can cause pain, numbness, or tingling sensations to radiate down the buttocks.

3. Pain when sitting: Sitting for extended periods can increase the pressure on the piriformis muscle, causing pain and discomfort.

2. Heat therapy: Applying heat to the affected area can help alleviate pain and inflammation.

Read more: Is heat or ice good for piriformis syndrome?

3. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical creams may provide temporary relief from pain and discomfort.

Take action to meet these everyday challenges.

1. Difficulty lifting and carrying your baby: Your baby is constantly growing and gaining weight, making it harder for you to lift and carry her for extended periods. This can worsen the symptoms of piriformis syndrome, causing more discomfort and pain in the back.

2. Limited mobility: Activities that require hip movement, such as walking, sitting, and standing, are challenging when dealing with piriformis syndrome. This can make it difficult to perform simple daily tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, and running errands.

3. Pain during breastfeeding: The act of holding and feeding your baby can cause pain and discomfort in your buttocks and legs, making breastfeeding a struggle.

4. Struggle to complete household chores: Doing household chores that involve squatting, bending, or lifting can cause significant pain and discomfort. This limits your ability to contribute to household chores as much as you would like to.

5. Interrupted sleep: Piriformis syndrome can cause pain and discomfort in the buttocks and legs, making it difficult to find a comfortable sleep position. This can interrupt my sleep, leaving you feeling tired and fatigued in the morning.

Besides that, there are some recovery tips to share with you.

1. Rest: Reducing physical activity and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition can help reduce pain and discomfort.

2. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can help you perform exercises that stretch and strengthen your hip muscles, which can relieve pressure on the piriformis muscle.

In conclusion, piriformis syndrome after pregnancy is a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can help you manage the condition effectively and improve your quality of life. If you experience severe or prolonged symptoms, it is important to consult your doctor for proper medical advice.