Pelvic pain in pregnancy
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common complaint, affecting up to one in four pregnant women. It is typically felt as sharp pain in the hips or groin, and can start late in the first trimester and last for a few months after giving birth. Pelvic pain during pregnancy is sometimes referred to as PGP (pelvic girdle pain) or SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction).
PGP is caused by stiffness of the pelvic joints or uneven movement of the joints at the back or front of the pelvis. Symptoms of PGP can be uncomfortable for pregnant women and include difficulty walking, climbing stairs, getting out of bed, rolling over in bed and even standing still.
Fortunately, there are treatments available to help manage pelvic pain during pregnancy. Physical therapy can help reduce discomfort by strengthening muscles around the pelvis and improving flexibility. Modifying how you move can also help alleviate symptoms;
for example, avoiding activities that require lifting heavy objects or twisting your body too much . Wearing a pelvic support belt can also help reduce pain by providing extra support to the pelvis.
In addition, there are some lifestyle changes that can help manage pelvic pain during pregnancy. Staying active and doing low-impact exercises such as swimming or walking can help keep the muscles around the pelvis strong and flexible.
Find out what is causing your pelvic pain during pregnancy and learn how to control it safely with our helpful guide.
Managing Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy
There are a variety of methods available to help manage pelvic pain during pregnancy. Physical therapy is one of the most common methods used to reduce discomfort, as it strengthens muscles around the pelvis and increases flexibility. Additionally, wearing a pelvic support belt can provide extra support to the pelvis and reduce pain.
Other lifestyle changes that can help manage pelvic pain include avoiding activities that require heavy lifting or twisting of the body, staying active with low-impact exercises such as swimming or walking, and taking warm baths or applying heat packs to relieve tension in the muscles. Additionally, pregnant women should ensure they get enough rest and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga. Taking anti-inflammatory medications may also help reduce inflammation and pain.
Overall, it is important to remember that pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common complaint and can be managed with the right treatment plan. By following the advice of your healthcare provider, you can find relief from pelvic pain and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy.
Coping with pelvic pain in pregnancy
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common experience for many women, with about 25% of pregnant women suffering from it. It is usually felt in the hips or groin and can start late in the first trimester and may continue for a few months after giving birth. Treatments such as physical therapy and modifying movement can help manage pelvic pain during pregnancy.
Physiotherapists may recommend a pelvic support belt or crutches to help with pain, as well as flat, supportive shoes and different methods of turning over in bed. It is important to be as active as possible within your pain limits and avoid activities that involve pushing or carrying heavy objects.
Relaxation techniques can also be used to manage the emotional impact of chronic pain, so it is recommended to seek advice from a physiotherapist on this matter. If the pain is causing considerable distress, then consulting with a GP or midwife should be considered.
What are the symptoms of pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy?
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common condition experienced by pregnant women. It is characterized by mild to severe pain in the pelvis and back, which can make it difficult to perform everyday activities such as sitting, standing, walking and moving.
The intensity of the pain varies from person to person, but it often manifests as soreness, stabbing, stinging or burning sensations in the hip bones to buttocks area. PGP may be worse when lifting heavy objects, bending over, walking up and down stairs, getting up from a sitting position and turning over in bed. Additionally, the pain may become more intense at night after a very active day.
It is important for pregnant women experiencing pelvic girdle pain to seek medical advice from their doctor or midwife. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and can include physical therapy exercises such as stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles around the pelvis; using heat or cold packs; wearing supportive belts ; and taking pain relief medications.
What you need to know about pelvic pain during pregnancy
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is a common complaint for many women, but it is important to understand that it is different from symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) or sciatica. Pelvic pain is localized to the pelvic area and not caused by pressure on the sciatic nerve.
It is more generalized than SPD or sciatica and can affect the hips, groin, or lower back. About 25% of pregnant women experience pelvic pain, usually in the second or third trimester. It may start late in the first trimester and can last for a few months after giving birth.
Fortunately, there are treatments available to help reduce pelvic pain during pregnancy. Physical therapy can be beneficial in helping to strengthen muscles and improve posture which can help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with pelvic pain. Additionally, modifying how you move throughout your day can also help reduce symptoms.
How is pelvic girdle pain treated?
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common condition experienced by pregnant women. It is characterized by pain or discomfort in the lower back or pelvis, which can extend to the upper thighs and perineum. PGP usually resolves itself after birth, but it can be managed with certain treatments.
The first step in treating PGP is to identify and avoid activities that cause pain, such as high heeled shoes and weight-bearing activities. Additionally, wearing a pelvic support garment can help stabilize the pelvic girdle and reduce discomfort.
Pain medications may also be prescribed to manage symptoms. Physiotherapy and exercise programs are also recommended to correct any underlying issues causing the pain. These treatments can help alleviate symptoms of PGP during pregnancy, allowing women to enjoy their pregnancies more comfortably.
How can I relieve pelvic girdle pain at home?
Pelvic girdle pain can be a debilitating condition, but there are ways to relieve it at home. Firstly, it is important to speak to your physiotherapist about a home exercise program that is tailored to your needs. This will help strengthen the muscles and ligaments around the pelvis and reduce pain.
Additionally, taking pain relief medicine such as paracetamol can help manage the discomfort. If available, wearing a pelvic support garment can also provide additional stability and reduce pain.
Applying heat to painful areas can also be beneficial in relieving pelvic girdle pain. Resting when necessary is important too, however it is best to speak with a doctor before taking extended bedrest as this can lead to further complications. It is also important to identify activities that cause pain and adjust or avoid them if possible; for example, wearing high heeled shoes or squatting may aggravate the condition.
Will pelvic girdle pain affect labour and birth?
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common condition during pregnancy that can cause discomfort and pain in the pelvic area. It can affect labour and birth, but it usually can be managed with the right strategies. During labour, positioning yourself in a way that puts less stress on the pelvis and hips is recommended.
This could include using a birthing ball or kneeling on all fours. Inducing labour early or having a caesarean section are not usually recommended for PGP as this may not necessarily reduce the pain.
Unfortunately, nearly 7 out of 10 people with PGP during pregnancy have it again in future pregnancies. Pelvic pain may be worse during future pregnancies, so it is important to develop a strategy to manage your pelvic pain early to avoid worsening pain as the pregnancy progresses.
This could include seeing an osteopath or physiotherapist who specialises in treating pregnant women with PGP, doing regular exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and taking regular pain relief medication.
