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Week 40 · Third Trimestermild

Tailbone Pain at 40 Weeks Pregnant

Tailbone (coccyx) pain is a common pregnancy complaint, especially in the second and third trimesters. Relaxin loosens the joints around the coccyx, and the growing uterus shifts posture, putting additional strain on the area.

👶 What's Happening at Week 40

Your baby is now the size of a small pumpkin.

  • The baby is fully developed and ready for life outside the womb.
  • Lungs are producing enough surfactant for independent breathing.
  • The skull bones are soft and can mold for passage through the birth canal.

🔬 Why You're Experiencing Tailbone Pain at Week 40

  • Relaxin hormone loosens the sacrococcygeal joint (where the tailbone meets the sacrum)
  • Shifted center of gravity changes how weight is distributed onto the tailbone
  • Prolonged sitting puts direct pressure on the coccyx
  • Baby's position may place pressure on the coccyx from inside
  • Prior tailbone injury is more symptomatic during pregnancy

💊 Relief Tips for Week 40

1
Coccyx (Donut) CushionA wedge-shaped or donut cushion with a cutout relieves pressure directly on the tailbone when sitting.
2
Change Positions FrequentlyAvoid prolonged sitting or standing — alternating positions prevents sustained coccyx loading.
3
Warm CompressA warm compress or warm bath relaxes the muscles surrounding the coccyx.
4
Pelvic Floor PhysiotherapyA physiotherapist can release tight coccyx-associated muscles and improve alignment.
5
Avoid Hard SurfacesSit on padded chairs or use a cushion on hard seats.

📋 Other Week 40 Symptoms

Extreme pelvic pressureStrong Braxton Hicks or early laborCervical dilationExhaustion and impatienceLoose stools
See full Week 40 guide →

⚠️ Call Your Doctor If…

  • Tailbone pain is severe and disabling
  • Pain extends down both legs or causes numbness (possible nerve involvement)
  • Tailbone pain after a fall or direct injury
  • Pain with bowel movements that is worsening

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a baby break your tailbone during birth?

A baby can occasionally fracture or dislocate the tailbone (coccyx) during a difficult delivery, especially with forceps or prolonged pushing. This is relatively rare.

What is the best sitting position for tailbone pain in pregnancy?

Leaning slightly forward so weight rests on the sit bones (ischial tuberosities) rather than the coccyx is best. A coccyx cushion supports this position.

Will tailbone pain resolve after birth?

For most women, coccyx pain improves significantly within weeks to months after delivery as relaxin levels drop and posture normalizes.

Can tailbone pain cause problems during labor?

Significant coccyx flexibility is actually helpful during labor, as the coccyx moves to widen the birth canal. In most cases, tailbone pain does not complicate delivery.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your OB/GYN or midwife about symptoms during pregnancy.