Pubic dysfunction in pregnancy

About a third of pregnant women suffer from pelvic pain caused by pubic dysfunction (SPD).

Pregnancy is uncomfortable, isn’t it? Anyone who has had a baby knows this! What happens when the simple expectation is added to a constant pelvic pain? For 1 in 3 pregnant women, the appearance of pelvic pain during pregnancy is caused by the pubic dysfunction that doctors call SPD.

What causes pubic dysfunction?

The front of the pelvis consists of two halves, with a small gap between them. During pregnancy, this gap widens to allow the uterus and baby to grow.

When this gap widens too much, it creates this painful condition.

Excessive enlargement is caused by a normal pregnancy hormone, called relaxin. Dysfunction occurs when this hormone is produced too much or produced too early during pregnancy (usually before the 14th week of pregnancy).

How do I know if I have public dysfunction during pregnancy?

You may notice that carrying out your normal daily activities is becoming increasingly difficult and painful. Things that could be painful are:

• Rolling in bed
• Raising your legs
• Standing on only one leg (such as wearing pants or shoes)

What can I do for pelvic pain?

You’ve identified the problem, so let’s discuss a few things that might alleviate some discomfort for the duration of your pregnancy.

• See a chiropractor: A certified chiropractor can help keep your pelvis in alignment, helping to relieve some of the pain.
• Acupuncture – An acupuncture specialist can help relieve pain that affects the points that correspond to the pelvis. Acupuncture and chiropractic work are great when paired together!
• Sleep with a pregnancy pillow – A pillow shaped for body length will help support your legs and pelvis during sleep. You should keep the pillow between your legs to align everything in the most favorable way.
• Always move your legs as one unit : Separating your legs can cause severe pain when you have this condition. To avoid further pain or injury, be sure to move both legs at the same time (such as when getting in or out of a car or bed).
• Stand on Two Legs – Never stand on one leg. Standing on one leg puts all the pressure on the supporting leg, which may prove too much for the weakened pelvis.
• Don’t wear high-heeled shoes : Your heels cause an imbalance in your body, forcing it to compensate to keep you upright. Wearing them adds extra unnecessary stress to the pelvic region.
• Never cross your legs : This position moves the pelvic bones into an incredibly uncomfortable position. Trust me, try it once and you will know!
• No jumping
• Avoid the stairs
• Sit on a birthing / fitness ball – Helps relieve the pressure created when sitting on a flat surface.
• Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor – See suggested exercises below!

Pelvic floor exercises in pregnancy

• Tennis Ball Squeeze – Hold a tennis ball between your knees while sitting upright. Squeeze and hold it, then release. Repeat 15-20 times. Repeat this same exercise with a tennis ball between your thighs.
• Bridge with ball – Lying on the floor. Place the tennis ball between your knees and lift your hips into the bridge position. Hold it for a moment and then slowly bring your hips back to the floor. Repeat 10-20 times.

Do these exercises every day!

Will it affect my labor in a negative way?

Having SPD does not affect your ability to deliver your baby! You may feel more comfortable laboring in certain positions , such as on your hands and knees or lying sideways. +

There is no increased risk to the mother or baby!

When will it go away and will I have it again in a next pregnancy?

Having had SPD once does NOT mean you will experience it with every single pregnancy. Thankfully, the pain should clear up a few weeks after birth when your body stops producing so much relaxin.

Until then, continue with the self-care habits you created during your pregnancy, making sure you’re being gentle with your recovering pelvis.

You’ll be yourself again in no time!