Pregnancy is a time of profound change for a woman’s body, and while many changes are exciting, some can bring discomfort.
One common and often underestimated condition that many pregnant women experience is pelvic girdle pain.
Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.
However, the good news is that with the right approach, the pain can be managed effectively.
In this blog, we will explain what pelvic girdle pain is, its causes and symptoms during pregnancy, how it’s diagnosed, and the treatment options available.
We will also focus on how physiotherapy and specific exercises can help manage this condition and reduce discomfort.
What is pelvic girdle pain?
Pelvic girdle pain refers to discomfort or pain in the pelvic region, which can include the front of the pelvis (pubic symphysis) and the back (sacroiliac joints).
During pregnancy, the body undergoes various physical changes, some of which can contribute to the onset of pelvic girdle pain.
This type of pain can be mild or severe and may affect a woman’s ability to move freely, perform daily tasks, or sleep comfortably.
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain is different from general lower back pain and is specifically related to the pelvis, affecting the joints, ligaments, and muscles around this area.
The pain can occur in one or both sides of the pelvis and may spread to the lower back, hips, groin, thighs, or buttocks.
Causes of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain is usually caused by a combination of physiological changes and hormonal fluctuations.
The primary causes of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy include:
1. Hormonal changes
During pregnancy, the body produces the hormone relaxin, which helps loosen the ligaments in the pelvic region to accommodate the growing baby and prepare the body for childbirth.
While this is necessary for delivery, the increased laxity in the ligaments can also lead to discomfort in the pelvic joints, contributing to pelvic girdle pain.
2. Postural changes
As the pregnancy progresses, a woman’s posture changes to support the growing belly.
This shift in posture places additional stress on the pelvis.
The added weight of the baby can cause strain on the pelvis and lower back, increasing the risk of developing pain.
3. Muscle imbalance
As the abdominal muscles stretch to make space for the baby, other muscles, such as those in the lower back, hip and pelvis, can also be affected.
These muscle imbalances can lead to changes at the pelvic joints, causing pain and discomfort.
4. Previous pelvic injuries or conditions
Women who have had previous pelvic injuries, such as fractures or surgeries, may be more prone to developing pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.
Additionally, women with pre-existing conditions like sacroiliac joint dysfunction or osteoarthritis may experience an exacerbation of their symptoms during pregnancy.
5. Increased stress on the pelvis
With each trimester, as the baby grows, there is increased stress on the pelvic joints.
For some women, this added pressure can lead to dysfunction in the pelvis, causing pain.
Symptoms of pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy
Pelvic girdle pain can manifest in different ways, and it’s important for pregnant women to be able to recognise these signs early on.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain in the pelvic region: This is often felt in the pubic area, lower back, and hips. The pain may be sharp, dull, or aching, and it can worsen with movement.
- Pain with walking: Walking, particularly with an uneven gait or when shifting weight, may trigger pelvic pain.
- Pain with stair climbing: Climbing stairs or standing on one leg can aggravate the pain, especially when the body is forced to shift weight from one side to the other.
- Pain during rolling in bed: Many women with pelvic girdle pain report pain when turning over in bed or getting out of bed.
- Difficulty with physical activities: Activities like standing for long periods, bending over, or lifting objects can be painful due to the strain on the pelvic joints.
- Pain radiating to the thighs and groin: Sometimes, the pain can spread from the pelvic area to the thighs, groin, and buttocks.
If any of these symptoms are present, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional, as managing pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain early can help prevent it from worsening.
How is pelvic girdle pain diagnosed?
Pelvic girdle pain is primarily diagnosed based on a physical examination and a review of the patient’s medical history.
The following steps are typically involved in diagnosis:
- Patient history: Your physiotherapist or healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, including when they started, their intensity, and any specific movements or activities that worsen the pain.
- Physical examination: A detailed physical examination will be conducted to assess the pelvic region, posture, and any areas of muscle weakness or tightness. The healthcare provider may perform specific tests to pinpoint which pelvic joints are causing discomfort.
- Imaging (if necessary): In most cases, pelvic girdle pain can be diagnosed without the need for imaging. However, if the provider suspects another underlying condition, such as a fracture or nerve issue, imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI may be recommended.
Treatment options for pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy
While pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain can be uncomfortable, there are several effective treatments available to manage the condition.
These treatments are designed to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and restore balance in the pelvic region. Some common treatment options include:
1. Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.
A physiotherapist trained in pregnancy-related conditions can develop an individualised treatment plan that combines hands-on techniques with education on posture, movement, and exercise in order to address the pain and improve function.
Physiotherapy treatments may include:
- Manual therapy: Techniques such as joint mobilisations or soft tissue massage can help relieve tension in the pelvic muscles and joints.
- Postural correction: A physiotherapist can help identify postural imbalances and teach you how to adjust your posture to relieve pressure on the pelvic region.
- Pelvic stabilisation: Taping techniques can help to create more stability around the pelvis. Additionally, specific exercises can help stabilise the pelvic joints by strengthening the muscles around the pelvis, reducing pain and discomfort.
- Ergonomic advice: A physiotherapist can provide guidance on how to move, lift, and carry objects in a way that minimises strain on the pelvic girdle.
2. Exercise and stretching
While rest is important, physical activity and exercises tailored to the needs of pregnant women can also help alleviate pelvic girdle pain.
Some beneficial exercises for managing pelvic girdle pain include:
- Pelvic tilts: These gentle exercises help strengthen the muscles around the pelvis and improve alignment.
- Bridges: This exercise strengthens the glute muscles and helps stabilise the pelvic area.
- Hip abduction and adduction: These exercises strengthen the muscles that support the pelvis and help reduce pain.
- Prenatal yoga or pilates: These practices focus on strengthening and stretching muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting relaxation.
Always consult with your physiotherapist before starting any exercise routine to ensure that the exercises are safe and appropriate for your stage of pregnancy.
3. Supportive devices
Some women find relief from pelvic girdle pain by using supportive devices such as pelvic belts or braces.
These devices provide external support to the pelvis, helping to reduce strain and stabilise the area.
4. Heat and cold therapy
Applying heat or cold packs to the pelvic region can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
Cold therapy is often more effective for joints and bones in the acute phase of pain, while heat therapy can be soothing for chronic discomfort from tight muscles.
Conclusion
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain is a common and often debilitating condition.
But with early intervention and proper management, it’s possible to alleviate discomfort and restore function.
Seeking physiotherapy and professional support can make a significant difference in your pregnancy experience.
By recognising the symptoms early, addressing them with physiotherapy, and incorporating targeted exercises, you can manage pelvic girdle pain and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy.
If you’re struggling with pelvic girdle pain, don’t wait for it to get worse.
Contact us today or book an appointment online with your closest Lifecare clinic and take the first step towards relief and recovery.
Our goal is to help you manage your symptoms, improve your quality of life, and ensure that you feel strong and supported throughout your pregnancy.