CoccydyniaPain in the coccyx (the f

CoccydyniaPain in the coccyx (the four segments of bone at the tip of the sacrum) can occur during pregnancy and postpartum as a result of pregnancy hormones relaxing the joints, as well as prolonged sitting or trauma during the birthing process. Women may experience pain in the tailbone area during sitting, rising from a sitting position, getting out of bed, walking, eliminating, and coughing. Once a diagnosis is made, women can try the fol-lowing techniques to alleviate discomfort: • Apply an ice pack several times a day to the affected area. • Use proper body mechanics when getting out of bed and rising from a sitting position. • Practice pelvic floor exercises if they do not increase symptoms. • Avoid straining on the toilet, and increase fiber and water if constipation is a problem. • Avoid rapid forward flexion movements and lifting. • Adjust sitting position if in a chair for long periods of time. Use a lumbar support, foot support, and a coccyx wedge that will decrease pressure on the coccyx.• Nurse the baby in a side-lying position.