Hormones and Ligament Laxity

Specific hormones cause ligament laxity. During pregnancy, relaxin is responsible and necessary to allow this increased movement to make room for growing and delivering your baby. Unfortunately it is not site specific to just the pelvis, it is coursing through the entire body. This can increase risk for injury during pregnancy as you body does not have time to adapt to the quick changes that occur along with increased weight gain and distribution of this weight. You may notice more ‘popping’ of joints or feeling ‘looser and unstable’ as well as increased symptoms of prolapse.

This laxity continues while breastfeeding so you may notice it lingering until weaning has been completed. It is also not out of the realm for you to experience this every month, during ovulation or right before your period.

This is important in regards to exercise prescription during pregnancy and postpartum. It is important to listen to your body adjusting as necessary. As you get stronger and further postpartum, and are done breastfeeding you will see things improve. If you push too hard during the laxity you might have to make up ground each month rather than getting back to where you were to keep improving. The body does do an amazing job at adapting after the hormones die down whether its monthly or more of a postpartum concern so you can continue progressions to achieve your goals.