Pregnancy is a wonderful experience for many mothers, but sometimes it can be a little uncomfortable and painful. Do you also feel pain in your lower abdomen, especially in the front, where the two hip bones meet? Does this pain increase when you walk, climb stairs, or get out of bed? If so, you may have a condition called `Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction` or `(SPD)` for short. Don't worry, this is something that happens to many people, and it usually goes away after you have your baby. Let's talk about this in more detail.
What is this Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD)?
Simply put, `Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction` or `(SPD)` refers to pain and discomfort in your lower abdomen, specifically the joint where the two pubic bones meet in front . We call this joint `(Pubic Symphysis)`. This is a small piece of cartilage that connects the two bones. Its main function is to keep your entire pelvis stable. It also helps absorb shocks during activities like running and jumping. The ligaments around this joint keep the two hip bones in place.
But how many changes happen to our bodies during pregnancy, right? As your baby grows inside your womb, this hip joint also comes under a lot of pressure. Not only that, but during pregnancy, our bodies produce a hormone called ``Relaxin''. This hormone causes the ligaments around your joints to loosen up a bit and become more flexible. This is actually a good thing, because this loosening helps your hip joint to expand properly as you get closer to having your baby.
However, if this ligament becomes too loose, the hip joint becomes a little unstable. That means the hip bones start to move a little more than normal. This is what we call ``spinal disc disease (SPD)''. Another reason for this is the extra weight that your body is putting on with the baby. When all of this comes together, that pain comes.
Sometimes doctors call this condition ``Pelvic Girdle Pain`` (PGP). That means pain in the hip girdle. Because this pain is not limited to that front joint, but can be felt throughout the entire hip area.
How common is SPD?
This condition called ``(SPD)`` is actually more common among pregnant mothers than you might think. It is said that about one in four pregnant women will experience this discomfort. So if you are feeling something like this, know that you are not alone.
What are the symptoms of SPD?
The pain you feel can vary from person to person. It also varies depending on the weight of the baby and the pressure it puts on your hips. Often, as you get closer to delivery, the baby's weight increases, so the pain can increase.
What is the pain like?
You may feel things like this:
- Slight discomfort or pain in the front of the lower abdomen.
- Your hip feels loose, like it's about to give way .
- A sudden, sharp pain in the front or back of the hip, as if struck by lightning.
- Numbness, burning, stabbing, or aching pain in the hip area.
- Constant pain that spreads to the lower abdomen, back, groin, perineum, and thighs.
Things that increase pain
This pain can be exacerbated by certain daily activities. Some of these things we can't avoid.
- While walking
- When bending forward or sitting up straight
- When going up or down stairs
- While tossing and turning in bed
- When you get out of bed
- When getting into or out of a vehicle
- When standing on one leg or lifting one leg
- When getting up from a chair
- When spreading your thighs or legs apart (for example, when getting out of a car)
Other symptoms besides pain
In addition to pain, other symptoms may occur.
- There may be difficulty urinating or defecating .
- You may feel very tired for no reason.
- You may hear a "click" or "milk milk" sound from your hip.
Impact on mental health
This pain and discomfort can also affect your mental health. It's normal to feel sad and anxious when you can't do your daily activities or when you have difficulty living a normal life. This can sometimes contribute to postpartum depression. So if you have symptoms of depression during pregnancy or after having a baby, it's important to talk to a doctor .
Isn't walking good for SPD?
The benefits of walking usually outweigh the risks. However, walking can be a bit difficult for someone with SPD. If you experience unbearable pain when walking , or if your symptoms get worse, you may need to be more careful about how often you walk, where you walk, or the shoes you wear. It's a good idea to talk to your doctor about this.
What are the causes of SPD?
As we've talked about before, during pregnancy, your body produces a hormone called ``Relaxin.'' This causes the ligaments in the joint that connects your left and right hip bones to loosen. This hormone can start to be produced as early as 10 weeks into your pregnancy.
When the ligaments loosen, the joint is allowed to move a little more. This extra movement is what allows the hip bones to separate as the baby approaches birth, making way for the baby to emerge.
These changes are what make it possible to give birth vaginally. But sometimes this joint can become too unstable, or it can move in ways it shouldn't. In addition, the extra weight you put on your hips puts more pressure on the joints. All of this together causes SPD.
Who is at higher risk of developing SPD?
If you are pregnant, you are more likely to experience pain in the pubic symphysis. This pain can occur during pregnancy, during labor, and even after the baby is born.
But you don't have to be pregnant to experience this pain.
- Sports accidents can cause broken or dislocated hips.
- Over time, the cartilage in this joint can wear away (this is called ``Osteoarthritis''), which reduces the support provided to the hip bones.
- This joint can also be damaged by infections and inflammatory conditions (e.g., Osteitis Pubis).
If you have a pre-existing back problem or have had a hip injury , you are at higher risk of developing SPD.
What are the possible complications of SPD?
Usually, SPD does not cause serious complications. However, it can be very painful, especially during pregnancy and in the weeks after giving birth. It can affect your quality of life and prevent you from doing the things you enjoy. Some of the complications that can occur with SPD include:
- Difficulty standing, walking, or doing other physical activities.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Arthritis of your pubic symphysis.
- Feeling sad, anxious, or depressed about the limitations caused by SPD.
How do you know for sure if you have SPD? (Diagnosis)
There are several ways for your doctor to determine if you have `(Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction)`.
- Your medical history will be checked to see if you are pregnant or have had an accident that could have damaged the pubic symphysis.
- A physical exam will be performed to check for pain and swelling. The doctor may also check how easily you can move your hips and spine.
- Your hip joint may be further examined with imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or X-ray. If you are pregnant, your doctor will order imaging tests that are safe for you and your baby.
How is SPD treated during pregnancy?
The hip pain you're feeling will likely go away completely within a few months after you have your baby . As your body stops producing the hormone ``Relaxin,'' the ligaments tighten again, reducing the range of motion in the joint. Until then, your doctor can help you manage your pain and reduce the pressure on the ``Pubic Symphysis'' joint. Here are some options:
- Taking painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs - nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) (only on medical advice, especially if pregnant).
- Wearing comfortable, well-cushioned shoes .
- Maintaining good posture while standing and sitting. That means keeping your shoulders back and your back straight.
- Avoid sitting for long periods of time .
- Applying ice packs to the hip area.
- Sleeping with a pillow between your knees .
- Wearing a pregnancy support belt to help stabilize the hips.
- When getting out of the car , press your legs together .
- Try things like acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic care, or physical therapy to reduce pain and improve mobility.
Your doctor may recommend exercises and stretches to help protect and stabilize your hips. This may include pelvic floor exercises. Remember, exercise during pregnancy may be different from the exercises your doctor recommends after pregnancy. Exercises that put less stress on your joints, such as swimming, are better than cycling or weight-bearing exercises.
It's also important to learn how to move safely. When you're in pain, it's normal to want to move differently to relieve it. But when you do, you may be putting unnecessary stress on other joints without even realizing it. For example, you need to learn how to lift a heavy bag from the floor, pick up a small child, or bend over. Things like twisting and turning your body too quickly can make things worse. Your doctor can guide you on ways to reduce pain without damaging other joints.
What is the best sleeping position for someone with SPD?
If you have SPD, it is best to sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees and lower legs .
Does SPD require bed rest?
No, bed rest is not usually required for SPD. Most people can control their pain to the point where bed rest is not necessary.
Can SPD be prevented?
It may not be possible to completely prevent hip pain during pregnancy. But you can protect your hip area from injury. These tips can help reduce your risk of SPD:
- Wear comfortable shoes that provide good support for your feet. Avoid wearing shoes like flip-flops that have no support.
- Maintain a healthy weight throughout pregnancy. If you are not sure what a healthy weight is, ask your doctor.
- Listen to your body . If something hurts, stop doing it. Don't push yourself too hard.
- Be mindful of your posture and body movements . Avoid sudden twisting movements or movements that put pressure on your hips, such as squats.
What can you expect if you have SPD?
The pain of SPD varies from person to person. While it can be very uncomfortable during pregnancy, many people report that the pain subsides within a few months after giving birth . If the pain continues after giving birth, see a doctor to see if there are other things that are causing your discomfort. In the meantime, work with your prenatal care provider to find ways to manage the pain so that it doesn't interfere with your daily life.
Does SPD mean labor is imminent?
No. Having `(SPD)` or `Pelvic Girdle Pain` `(PGP)` does not mean that you are nearing labor or that labor is progressing. Be aware of the real signs that labor is approaching.
When should you see a doctor?
If your hip pain is interfering with your daily activities, be sure to let your doctor know . If you have trouble with normal movements like walking, climbing stairs, or getting in and out of the car, your pubic symphysis may be the cause. But there are ways to manage this pain. Your doctor will talk to you about the best ways to manage this discomfort so that you can move around better during the rest of your pregnancy.
It's not unusual to experience hip pain during pregnancy. But if it's so severe that you can't do weight-bearing movements like walking, it could be a sign of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD). The good news is that this usually goes away within a few weeks after giving birth. But it doesn't make your current situation any easier. If your hip pain is preventing you from moving around normally or is causing you severe discomfort, talk to your prenatal care provider. There are things you can do to manage hip pain during pregnancy.
Finally, remember this (Take-Home Message)
Okay, so now you have a better understanding of what we've been talking about (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction - SPD). Here are some important things to remember:
- SPD is a condition that many people experience during pregnancy. You are not alone.
- The main reason for this is that the hip joint becomes unstable due to pregnancy hormones and the weight of the baby.
- If the pain is severe, things like walking and climbing stairs may become difficult .
- This pain often subsides after the baby is born .
- There are various ways to control pain (posture correction, exercise, support belts, painkillers as prescribed by a doctor).
- If you are in unbearable pain, or if you are having difficulty performing daily activities, definitely see a doctor . Don't be afraid or embarrassed.
We hope this information helps you make your pregnancy as comfortable as possible!
` SPD, Pregnancy, Hip Pain, Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, Pelvic Girdle Pain, Pregnancy Health, Childbirth
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