I Am Nine Months Pregnant and I Feel Pressure When I Walk

As your baby -- and baby belly -- grow, you've probably found it increasingly difficult to do everyday tasks. During your last month of pregnancy, your baby is growing rapidly and preparing for delivery. Some pelvic pressure is normal, as your baby moves further down into the birth canal. Pressure can also be a sign of labor, so it is important to pay attention to any pressure you have when walking.

Pay attention to pressure at the end of your pregnancy. (Image: Thinkstock Images/Stockbyte/Getty Images)

Normal Pressure

During the last few weeks of your pregnancy, your baby is getting ready for her arrival. She is moving down further into your pelvis so that she can make her way through the birth canal when you go into labor. So, as your full-term baby moves lower and lower, you will experience increased pelvic pressure. Walking can make that pressure even more noticeable, as all of your weight is pressing downward.

Labor-Related Pressure

In some cases, significant pelvic pressure can be a sign of early labor, as your baby begins to move through the birth canal. If you notice extreme pressure when walking that does not go away when you sit down and put your feet up, pay careful attention, and listen to your body. Major pressure can be a sign that your baby is on her way.

Other Symptoms

If you have pelvic pressure when walking in conjunction with other signs of early labor, you might want to get your hospital bag packed if it isn't already. You might lose your mucous plug, an often blood-tinged clot of mucous. You might notice contractions, even if they are sporadic and not particularly painful. Or, your water might break, in which case it's time to call your doctor and head to the hospital.

Dealing with Pressure

If your pelvic pressure does not occur with other symptoms, you can chalk it up to those last uncomfortable days of pregnancy. While walking is a good way to jump start labor, if it is too uncomfortable for you, don't do it. Kick your feet up and relax to relieve the pressure. Your days of quiet relaxation are short-lived, after all.