Pubic Symphysis pain in pregnancy
A common complaint amongst pregnant women is pain at the front of the pelvis (pubic bone) and into the groin. It most commonly starts through the second trimester as pregnancy hormones increase movement and laxity of the pelvis in addition to the increasing weight of baby.
Symptoms include:
Pain with walking & waddling gait
Pain when standing from sitting + first few steps
Pain when getting changed/ standing one 1 leg
Pain getting out of the car or sometimes bed
Pain going up or down stairs
Limitations on every day activities including driving, exercise, general mobility
Risk factors for developing it:
Multiple pregnancy (twins etc)
Large baby
Weakness in muscles supporting the pelvis
Subsequent pregnancies (2nd or 3rd etc)
Increased weight gain
Previous problems with your sacroiliac joint or symphysis pubis joint
Can physio help? ABSOLUTELY!
Physiotherapists can help with manual therapy and massage to relieve muscle tension causing pain and optimise pelvic position/ alignment.
Education on activity modifications including exercise
Pelvic floor muscle management
Taping and pelvic support belts
Individualised exercise programming to target functional pelvic stabilisation and healthy pregnancy
Specialised pregnancy exercise classes
