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Pain in Pregnancy Part 2 - Thigh Pain: What the heck is meralgia paresthetica?

thigh pain in pregnancy

Meralgia paresthetica is a condition where the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) is compressed, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and burning on the outer side of the front of the thigh. We learn in PT school about this as a condition that happens a lot to people who wear heavy belts - like a contractor or police officer. The pressure from the belt compresses on the nerve as it passes over the top of the pelvis. Meralgia paresthetica can also happen in pregnancy!


How do I know if I have this?

The LFCN is ONLY a sensory nerve, so if you have any muscle weakness along with your symptoms, it's not meralgia paresthetica! Some people will report an increased sensitivity to light touch.


Where exactly is this nerve getting pinched?

The LFCN leaves the spine at L2-3 (L = lumbar, which is the lower back) and then travels along the side of the pelvis, under the inguinal ligament (front of the pelvis to the pubic bone) and then to the thigh. It can be compressed at either of these locations.


Why does this happen in pregnancy?

  1. Changes in abdominal pressure: increased pressure from the growing baby can press on the nerve.

  2. Weight gain in and of itself can cause an increase of pressure in the abdomen.

  3. Postural changes: as the baby and belly grow, there is a tendency to have an increased arch in the lower back. This can compress the nerve there, but also put more pressure on the front!


What can I do about it?

  • Physical therapy of course! We can help manually loosen around the nerve, teach you about posture and positioning, and help with activity modification to avoid symptoms.

  • Avoid tight clothing or belts around the pelvis - try looser fitting pants.

  • Sleep on the opposite side of the pain, try with a pillow between the legs.


When do I seek help?

If you aren’t able to figure out how to relieve your pain, a PT can absolutely help! Physical therapists are experts in how the human body moves and functions, we can get to the root cause of your pain, and prescribe a specific program for you to work on. Additionally, we can actually work on you - improving muscle tone, joint mobility, and decreasing pain. 


Contact your health care provided right away if the back pain is accompanied by symptoms like:

  • Vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage

  • Fever

  • Burning sensation when urinating

  • Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs, buttocks, or genitals

  • Intense, sudden, or cyclical pain (which could indicate contractions)


About the author: Dr. Caitlyn Hauswirth-Varis, PT, DPT, OCS, CFMT, CF-L1


Caitlyn Hauswirth-Varis

Caitlyn is an expert in pelvic floor physical therapy, pregnancy and postpartum, and is board certified in orthopedic physical therapy. She has helped countless soon-to-be moms get out of pain during their pregnancy, and actually feel good throughout the process.



Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

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