Rib pain is common during the third trimester even though in some women it may be earlier. The pain may range from mild to severe.

What causes rib pain during pregnancy ?

The  body  produces a hormone known  as relaxin later in pregnancy. Relaxin  helps ligaments such as those in the abdomen and hip to expand  to allow space for the baby to grow and pass through the birth canal. These ligaments  also expands to make room for the lungs that are pushed up by now.

As the uterus expands, ligaments in the rib cage also expands and uterine cavity pushes up. As a result you feel pressure on the walls of the uterus. You may experience shortness of breath.

Sore ribs are usually felt at the side the baby is positioned and are more painful when sitting or leaning forward.

How to relieve rib pain during pregnancy ?

These tips can help relieve rib pain during pregnancy .

• wear loose-fitting clothing to make you comfortable
• change your posture – try to lean back whenever you can
• use cushions to support yourself when lying down
• do not  sit for long hours. Take regular breaks or short walks
• using ice packs or heating  pads on the area of pain can help
• engage in regular pregnancy exercises, meditation and yoga to help relief stress and pain
• massage the area of pain to help relax the muscles and reduce pain
• It is important to sit straight and avoid slouching . You can use a small pillow to support your back
• wear the right bra size to support and reduce the pressure of heavy and enlarged breast and reduce pain

You can  also stand  straight facing the wall. Cross your arms in the front of your face. Lean your crossed arms on the wall and slide  them up the wall above your head and stretch  yourself up as far as possible. Be in this position as long as you  can stay comfortable. Doing this lifts the rib cage and diaphragm  up above the uterus and gives you the well needed relief.