Pelvic Pain during Pregnancy
By: Tsou JinyeuTotal Views: 574, Word Count: 547,
SPD or symphysis pubis dysfunction causes severe pelvic pain which occurs probably because of a pelvic displacement. It is more commonly known as pelvic girdle pain. SPD affects about one in four pregnant women. Pain can occur during pregnancy and may last month after the baby is born. SPD can occur from the first trimester itself.
Symptoms of SPD include pain and discomfort in the pelvic area, tenderness, pressure and pain in the pubic area, pain while lifting and parting your legs, shooting pains in the lower body, difficulties in walking and backache.
Causes of SPD in pregnancy
Pelvis symphysis is a joint that holds the front bones of the pelvis together. It keeps the pelvis steady which allows for a free movement of the lower body. During pregnancy, the pelvis expands to make room for the baby. During the process sometimes, the pelvis symphysis overstretches causing the joint to get loosened or misplaced, therefore causing pain and discomfort in the pelvic area.
Ways to minimize pelvic pain during pregnancy
If you are suffering from pelvic discomfort and pain during pregnancy then do visit your doctor as soon as possible. Doctors will be able to advise you wisely on the best course of action to be taken as well as he may prescribe you some pregnancy-safe pain relief medicines or may refer you to a physiotherapist.
However there are many ways that you can take in order to reduce your discomfort and pain. Below are some tips that will help you minimize the pain.
- Wear a support band around the pelvic area to provide support to it.
- While sleeping place a pillow or cushion between your legs.
- Be seated while wearing clothes and when putting on shoes.
- Avoid the stairs. If you cannot, then take each step one at a time. Place one foot on the stairs and drag the other foot to meet it before proceeding to the next step.
- Pelvic exercises will help bring strength to the pelvic area. So spend some time for pelvic exercises.
- Any exercise in water (swimming, water aerobics) can lessen pressure on this joint.
- Rest whenever it is possible.
If you are suffering from pelvic pain and SPD then make sure you inform your doctor or midwife at the time of labor so that they can support you accordingly. For a natural delivery, the most comfortable birthing positions are kneeling on all fours. However, do whatever feels comfortable at the birthing time. If you have difficulty in parting your legs then inform your doctor or midwife especially if you have epidural so that you do not over stretch your hips during the labor period. Birthing pools are also recommended for women suffering with pelvic girdle pain. It is not advisable for a woman with SPD to get a caesarean section unless in some extreme conditions.
Fortunately in most cases, pelvic pain reduces and gradually disappears in the months after their baby is born. For a speedy recovery take therapies such as osteopathy and physiotherapy along with ample rest.
About the Author
Dr Tsou Jinyeu is a well known gynecologist and has been in this field since 1995. His special interests are – genetic and birth defects, high risk obstetrics, lupus in pregnancy, premature labour, premature delivery, triplets and ultrasound diagnosis. He is graduated from the University Of Illinois College Of Medicine. Nowdays he is working as a medical doctor at Elmhurst Loyola Center for Health.
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