When I got out of bed this morning I felt a popping sensation in my groin, my pubic bone. The most awful and intense pain followed. It's now sore when I walk around and lying down is terrible.

Anyone experience this? Is it a normal part of pregnancy? It's new to me....

How far along are you? I've been having some pelvic pain myself, related to baby getting heavier and putting more pressure on my spine (I'm quite short, makes things worse!).

I am close to dropping now, just a few more weeks to go. It feels completely different to the normal pain of baby falling-it's right at the front and sometimes down the inner thigh, almost to my knee.

It doesn't sound like anything I've ever heard of being part of a normal pregnancy. It could have been something like a groin pull, but hopefully it will heal and you won't have any further issues before birth.

It sounds like you stressed your pubic symphasis, the ligament that holds the right and left pubic bones together. Normally this ligament is very tight and no movement occurs at the joint. Due to the hormones of pregnancy, all of the body's connective tissue soften and lengthen. Sometimes either the pubis or the sacroiliac joint (where the lower spine connects with the hip bones in the back) can become unstable. And yes, it's really painful.

Try to avoid all movements and positions that stress the area. Do not try to stretch the area to relieve pain, that will only slow healing. A pillow between your legs and a long pregnancy pillow stuffed behind your back might make sleeping on your side more comfortable. Avoid all twisting movements, and lifting and carrying heavy objects. Watch out for activities like emptying a dishwasher, where you might twist and bend your spine as you reach out to pick up an object. When you pick something up, get as close to the object as possible, and make sure that you are directly facing the object before you lift.

To get out of bed without twisting, perform a "log roll". Roll your entire body - feet, knees, hips, spine and head - as a unit, to one side. Then swing your legs over the side of the bed as your simultaneously use your arms to help push your torso up to vertical. Before you stand, "square off." Make sure that you feet, knees, hips and torso are all facing in the same direction before you bear weight through you legs.

Use an ice pack for 10 minutes or so to relieve pain, reduce swelling and speed healing. Never place an ice pack directly on your skin. If the pain continues, consult your OBGYN about using an anti-inflammatory.