Think of them as your virtual squad of fellow Aussie mums-to-be who are gearing up for their own baby adventures. Introducing our exclusive haven – the Mum’s Grapevine Pregnancy Groups. But hey, guess what? You’re not in this alone! We’re here to throw a reassuring arm around your shoulder. Ready to welcome your little bundle of joy into the world? We totally get that the anticipation can feel like a roller coaster ride, complete with heart-fluttering excitement and a touch of nervousness. Braxton Hicks contractions or real contractions?.Everything you need to know about inducing labour.It’s your body’s way of telling you that the big day is approaching and that your baby is getting ready to meet you.

The TakeawayĪs you navigate the world of pregnancy with all its twists and turns, the lightning crotch is another chapter in your story. While it’s an exciting sign that labour is inching closer, it’s not a strict predictor of when labour will start. The lightning crotch is often a prelude to what’s known as “lightening” or “engagement.” This is when your baby’s head settles into your pelvis, getting into position for birth.

But remember, discomfort is just a sign that your baby is getting ready for their big debut. You might feel some discomfort in your pelvis, hips, and lower back as your body readies itself for labour. While the lightning crotch is a sign of progress, it’s not always the most comfortable stage. This is your body’s way of accommodating the shift in your baby’s position. Yep, your baby is quite the little acrobat.Īs your baby settles into the lower part of your pelvis, you might find yourself walking with a slightly different gait – as if you’re waddling.

Increased pressure on your bladder, making those bathroom trips a bit more frequent.

That’s because your baby’s head has moved south, giving your lungs and stomach a bit more breathing room.

A sudden lightness in your upper tummy, as if a weight has been lifted.

As always, if you have other symptoms - like vaginal bleeding, or your pain is persistent and doesn't ease up when you lie down or change positions - you should never hesitate to call or even head to the hospital, as it can signal a more serious health problem.The lightning crotch isn’t just a fancy term – it’s a sensation you’ll definitely notice. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), if this happens before 37 weeks gestation you might be in preterm labor and need to see your doctor or midwife right away.

And as What to Expect notes, lightning crotch pain can be a sign that your cervix is changing to prepare for your baby's birth. Healthline explains that as your baby grows and moves into position for birth, they may stretch or put pressure on your cervix, which can cause those annoying lightning-like pains. When I called my midwife in a panic she told me this was actually a pretty common late pregnancy symptom, aptly named 'lightning crotch.' Fortunately it's usually no big deal, but there are signs your lightning crotch is getting worse that you should definitely not ignore.Īccording to What to Expect, lightning crotch can be caused by your baby's head irritating nerves in your uterus. None were as weird and disconcerting as the sharp, electrical vaginal pain I felt in the third trimester, though. Like many moms-to-be, pregnancy provided me a whole host of new sensations, aches, and pains.

Lightning crotch