A client at 29 weeks' gestation reports experiencing hip and joint aches. What is the nurse's most appropriate response?

At 29 weeks of gestation, it is common for pregnant individuals to experience hip and joint aches due to the physiological changes occurring in their bodies. As the pregnancy progresses, the body releases relaxin, a hormone that increases the elasticity of the ligaments and can lead to discomfort in the joints and hips as they adapt to support the growing uterus and changing center of gravity.

Recognizing these discomforts as normal findings during pregnancy helps to reassure the client. It is essential for the nurse to validate the client's experience, while also providing strategies to manage any discomfort, such as advising gentle exercise, good posture, and appropriate sleeping positions.

While there may be scenarios where pain relief medications or referrals to specialists are necessary, these options are not the first line of response to typical musculoskeletal discomfort associated with pregnancy. Additionally, while rest and heat application could be beneficial strategies, simply advising these without first acknowledging the normalcy of the symptoms may not fully address the client's concerns. By communicating that these aches are expected during pregnancy, the nurse fosters understanding and helps to reduce anxiety about the physical changes occurring.