Pelvic Girdle Pain
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Evidence
https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2018/july/pelvic-girdle-pain-in-pregnancy
Charlotte Walters, Simon West, Tanya A Nippita
Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) is defined as pain between the posterior iliac crest and the gluteal fold, particularly in the vicinity of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ), which may radiate to the thighs and hips. PGP can occur in conjunction with or separately to pain in the pubic symphysis. There is diminished capacity for activities such as standing, walking and sitting, and the pain or functional disturbance is reproducible by specific clinical tests.
Education
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is caused by the body’s adjustments during pregnancy, when hormones like relaxin and progesterone loosen ligaments in preparation for delivery. The physical demands of carrying a growing baby also strain the pelvic joints and these changes can leave the pelvic area feeling unstable or sore after birth. PGP often affects the symphysis pubis (the joint at the front of the pelvis), the sacroiliac joints (at the back of the pelvis) and nearby muscles. This discomfort may be more intense during activities like walking, standing, or lifting and symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Though PGP often improves over time, some women experience persistent pain for weeks or even months post pregnancy. Seeing a healthcare provider can provide support on your condition and help you explore treatment options suited to your needs.
Certain women are more at risk of Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PRPGP). This includes those with a history of hyper-mobility (loose joints) or previous injuries to the pelvis or back. A woman with Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) in one pregnancy, has a higher risk of PGP in future pregnancies although this risk can be reduced by maintaining overall health and fitness and strengthening abdominal and pelvic floor muscles between pregnancies.
What happens after birth?
Pregnancy Related Pelvic Girdle Pain usually improves after birth although some women have ongoing pain, requiring physiotherapy treatment and maybe referral to a specialist.
7 tips to help manage your pain:
- Avoid standing on one leg (e.g. get dressed in sitting, minimise stair use)
- Zip your legs together and swivel when moving in/out of the car
- Wear supportive footwear when on your feet for prolonged periods or walking
- ICE will help settle inflammation at the joints. You can ice your pubic bone and the joints where the pelvis meets the spine at the lower back. 20 mins every 2 hours
- Sleep with a pillow between your knees and feet
- Have rest time throughout your day
- Avoid doing too much at once
A Women’s Health Physiotherapist can help you. Based on an individualised assessment treatment may include.
- Massage to loosen tight muscles
- Correcting pelvis biomechanics
- Strengthening exercises
- Prescribed pelvic support if required
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as Panadol or ibuprofen, can provide relief for mild to moderate PGP. Speak with your healthcare provider about the best options, especially if you are breastfeeding.
Empowerment
Coping with PGP while having a baby in the Neonatal unit can be challenging, but there are strategies to help you feel empowered and in control during this period of recovery. Make use of cushions or support belts when sitting and consider sitting on a firm, stable surface for better comfort.
Establishing a routine that includes rest and gentle movement is essential. Be kind to yourself and take breaks when you need to. Don’t hesitate to ask loved ones or hospital staff for support so you can prioritise recovery time.
Remember that healing from birth takes time and each improvement you make is a step towards feeling stronger and more confident. Celebrate small milestones in your recovery journey and focus on the progress you are making.
If you find that PGP is impacting your mental health or causing frustration, consider speaking with your healthcare provider.
Useful Links
Pelvic Pain Foundation
https://www.pelvicpain.org.au/
https://www.pelvicpain.org.au/pelvic-pain-afterpregnancy/
The Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria
Pregnancy, birth and baby
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/pelvic-pain-during-pregnancy
COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence
PANDA - Perinatal Anxiety & Depression Australia
For When – Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing
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Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
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