How the shape of your pelvis affects childbirth (Gynecoid Pelvis)

If you are pregnant, you probably have a lot of thoughts when you think about giving birth, right? Your doctor may have talked about the shape of your pelvis, or as we say in English, 'Pelvis'. When you hear the word 'Gynecoid Pelvis', some people are a little scared that this is some kind of disease. But it is actually not a disease at all. It is just a type of shape of the pelvic bone in our body. So let's talk about this clearly and simply today.

What exactly is a 'Gynecoid Pelvis'?

Simply put, 'Gynecoid Pelvis' is not a medical condition, it's just the shape of your pelvis. If your doctor tells you that you have a 'Gynecoid Pelvis', it means that your pelvic bone is round and wide. This is the most common shape found in women and is considered the most suitable for childbirth.

Our pelvis is the set of bones between the lower back and thighs, in our lower abdomen. Women's pelvises are generally lower and wider than men's pelvises. They are designed this way biologically to accommodate the baby during pregnancy and to help make childbirth easier.

Research has found that approximately 50% of women have this shape called the `Gynecoid Pelvis`. So this is very common.

What are the main shapes of the pelvis?

The shape of our pelvis can vary from person to person. Doctors divide these into four main types, mainly based on the changes in the upper part of the pelvis (pelvic inlet). Let's take a look at what they are.

How does the shape of the pelvis affect childbirth?

During childbirth, the baby comes out of the pelvis. So the upper part of the pelvis (pelvic inlet) is like the entrance for the baby to come out. Therefore, the shape of that entrance affects how easy or difficult the birth is.

• Gynecoid pelvis: This is wide and round, so the baby can easily pass through it. Therefore, a normal vaginal delivery usually occurs smoothly, without any complications.
• Android pelvis: This shape narrows as it descends, making it difficult for the baby to pass through. Sometimes, the baby can get stuck. In such cases, doctors recommend a cesarean section (C-section) for the safety of the baby and the mother.
• Anthropoid pelvis: Although not as wide as the gynecoid, it is not impossible to have a normal delivery with this shape. However, labor may take a little longer. Changing positions during labor can make delivery easier for these people.
• Platypelloid pelvis: This shape is flat and shallow, making it very difficult to have a normal birth. Most often, people with this shape have to undergo a cesarean section.

What are common health problems that affect the pelvis?

The pelvis is an important part of our body that not only helps with childbirth, but also helps with daily activities like walking, running, and sitting, and protects important organs (such as the uterus and bladder). So, various health problems can occur that affect this pelvis.

• Osteitis pubis: Inflammation and pain in the joint where the pelvic bones meet, such as in sports, when people engage in repetitive activities.
• Pelvic floor dysfunction: The muscles in the pelvic floor do not function properly. This can cause problems with bowel and bladder control (for example, the inability to control a bowel movement).
• Pelvic fracture: A fracture of one or more pelvic bones due to a cause such as an accident.
• Pelvic organ prolapse: The organs in the pelvis, such as the uterus, bladder, and rectum, drop down due to weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. This condition can occur due to factors such as childbirth and aging.
• Sacroiliitis: Inflammation and pain in the joints that connect the pelvis and lower back. This is common during pregnancy or in conditions like arthritis.

How do you know if you have this problem? (Symptoms)

If you are experiencing the symptoms below, it could be a sign of a pelvic problem.

• Chronic pelvic pain.
• Difficulty controlling urine.
• Feeling of heaviness or pressure in the lower abdomen.
• Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia).
• Pain during urination or the need to urinate frequently.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding.

What can you do to keep your pelvis healthy?

The same things that are good for our overall health are also good for our pelvic health. You can also incorporate these simple things into your life.

• Drink plenty of water and eat more fibrous foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes).
• Maintain a healthy weight for your height and age.
• Exercise regularly. Get at least 150 minutes of exercise a week, such as walking or running.
• Practice Kegel exercises, which strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor. You can ask your doctor about this.
• If you smoke, try to stop.
• Empty your bladder completely at least every two to four hours.

How do I know what shape my pelvis is?

This is a problem that many people have. No one can tell what shape their pelvis is, neither through online questionnaires nor by looking at it from the outside.

Only a doctor can tell exactly what shape your pelvis is. Your gynecologist can determine the shape of your pelvis through a pelvic exam or imaging tests such as an X-ray. This is usually done more frequently during pregnancy.

In conclusion, a `Gynecoid Pelvis` is nothing to be afraid of, it is a normal physical characteristic that helps with childbirth. No matter what shape your pelvis is, the most important thing is to talk to your doctor about it and follow his advice.

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