Knee pain during pregnancy is one of the common problems that many women report to the doctor during this period. Since you experience changes during pregnancy, including weight gain, changes in your walking, even sitting or resting, all these things can affect your knee. Although this complication is common in pregnancy; But fortunately, there are many solutions that you can help relieve your pain. cause of knee pain The factors that we will mention below are possible causes of knee pain and joint pain in pregnancy in general: ### hormonal changes During pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which relaxes the ligaments and joints and prepares the body for childbirth. These changes may reduce the stability of the knees and lead to knee pain during pregnancy. ### Change in the body's center of gravity With the growth of the fetus, the center of gravity of the body changes and may affect your walking and standing, and finally more pressure is applied to the knee joints. ### weight gain By adding weight during pregnancy, a lot of pressure is applied to the joints, including the knee, and that is why you feel pain in this area. ### deficiency of vitamins and minerals Among other possible cases is vitamin D and calcium deficiency, which can lead to weak bones and joints. ### Inflation With tissue swelling that occurs during pregnancy, the risk of joint pain, including the knee, increases. In addition to these things that we have mentioned for you, other things such as improper diet and lack of exercise can lead to excessive weight gain and finally experience knee pain. Read more: The cause and treatment of swelling behind the knee What treatment methods are there? In general, the treatment considered for knee pain during pregnancy varies depending on the cause, however, there are pain control methods that help reduce knee and joint pain during pregnancy, these are as follows: - doing regular and gentle exercise including swimming, yoga and walking - Using ice or warm compresses - Adequate rest - Keeping the knees up if possible - Using standard and comfortable shoes - Massage therapy - Consumption of a balanced diet - keeping the body hydrated - Consumption of supplements containing calcium and vitamin D with the doctor's advice - Using knee braces for pregnancy to support joints and reduce pain Related content: Causes and treatment of knee pain while sitting The treatment methods you should avoid: ### use of some drugs For example, the use of some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause problems for the child in the third trimester of pregnancy, including a decrease in amniotic fluid, heart problems, etc. ### Perform intense exercise It is recommended to avoid heavy sports or exercises where there is a possibility of injury such as falling. Such activities can increase joint pain and have many risks. ### being in a hot tub and sauna Although applying local heat to painful joints can help relieve pain; But you should not expose your whole body to heat, including a jacuzzi or sauna, especially during the first trimester. ### What is the solution for prevention? The methods that are suggested to you to prevent this complication are as follows: ### Weight Control Maintaining an appropriate weight during pregnancy by consuming a healthy diet and gentle exercise helps reduce extra pressure on the knees. Read more: Causes of knee pain when climbing stairs ### regular exercise Doing light sports such as walking, yoga and swimming with the doctor's advice can help strengthen muscles and reduce joint pain. ### Using suitable shoes Wearing comfortable shoes with standard soles can help reduce pressure on the knees. ### Using support pillows When sleeping, placing a pillow between the knees helps reduce pressure. Does knee pain stop after pregnancy? The healing process can be different for each person. Some people may still have pain weeks or months later. Conditions that can affect your recovery process are as follows: - The main cause of knee pain - Baby needs and care - your activity level after giving birth If your pain continues long after giving birth, you will need to see a doctor for more effective treatments. Related content: Definitive treatment of knee pain Is it safe to use painkillers for knee pain during pregnancy? The use of painkillers must be under the supervision of a doctor; Because the use of some medicines during pregnancy may be dangerous for the mother and the child. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are usually not recommended When should you see a doctor? Although joint pain during pregnancy can be a natural part of pregnancy; But if you have severe or sudden pain and it is also accompanied by symptoms such as swelling, redness or fever, you will need to see a pain specialist. According to your condition, the doctor will consider the best treatment method that does not harm pregnancy.