Pregnancy can bring about a few more aches and pains than we’re used to. More than 50% of women experience pain in their lower back and pelvic area during pregnancy.
These aches and pains may be due to a few things:
- hormone changes affecting ligament laxity
- a change where weight is held in your body
- increased joint mobility, and of course
- a growing belly!
What Is A Pubic Symphysis
The pubic symphysis is a small catilaginous joint that we often don’t think about.
It is sandwiched at the front of the pelvis between the pubic bones. The pubic symphysis helps to keep the bones together and the pelvis stable during activity.
But during pregnancy, hormones help to relax the joint and prepare for the pelvic outlet to open during birth.
These pregnancy related changes can cause pubic symphysis pain (PSP).
What Does PSP Feel Like
A colloquial name used for PSP is lightening crotch. That’s because Pubic sysmphysis pain can feel like aching, stabbing or shooting pain in the front of the pelvis or groin region.
Some women also feel the pain shooting around to the gluteal area (bottom) or down the back of the thigh.
What Is The Treatment For PSP
Your physio will provide hands on treatment for pain relief as well as advice to self manage symptoms and often compression garments (maternity leggins or a belt).
A few things you can do at home to help prevent or lessen the symptoms of PSP are
- try to limit asymmetrical leg activities
- sit down to put on/off your pants and socks rather than standing on one leg
- imagine you’re wearing a mini skirt when getting in/out of the car. This means on the way in , bum down first, then swivel around bringing your legs in together at the same time. Vice versa when getting out of the car.
- avoid lunges or single leg standing exercises at the gym like donkey kick
- place a pillow between your legs when sleeping
If you are struggling with any pregnancy related pain and would like to see one of our physios, ring us on 8356 1379 or book your next appointment online via our website.
