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Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD)
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction or SPD affects a growing number of pregnant women each year. Many of these women suffer the pain as part of the ‘process of being pregnant’, but they should not continue to suffer.
What is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction?
SPD is where the ligament in the lower pelvis has soften during pregnancy. This is caused by hormones (progesterone) that soften and stretch the ligaments of the body in order to allow the pelvis to open slightly to allow baby to move through more easily. Symphysis Pubis pain can occur as early as the 12th week of pregnancy. During pregnancy and after, the Symphysis can widen slightly and walking, climbing stairs and turning over in bed can be difficult or even impossible.
SPD does not affect all pregnant women, nor does it affect the same person in the same way. Some women experience pain in their first pregnancy and not the subsequent ones. Others can suffer the problem with every pregnancy.
Symptoms
The symptoms are commonly felt low down over the Symphysis Pubis joint (the lowest pubic bone at the front of the pelvis), which can be extremely painful to the touch. Pain may also be felt in the hips, groin and lower abdomen and perhaps even the inner thighs. Pain is increased by walking and all weight bearing activities particularly lifting one leg eg. stairs, movement in bed, getting in and out of a car etc.. Sometimes a clicking sound can be heard and felt.
In some cases pain is reduced when walking constantly for say 10 minutes, but returns dramatically once movement has stopped. This can make pain excruciating and unbearable. It has been described by some women as feeling like the pelvis is ‘tearing apart’.
Treatment
There is currently no active treatment for this condition, however a visit to the GP is essential. Some GPs may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs to help relieve pain, if it is severe. A physiotherapist may also be able to give advice on best ways to manage everyday movement and sleeping positions.
Self-help suggestions
- Avoid movements that aggravate the condition, such as:
- Standing on one leg: Stair climbing can aggravate the pubis. Try holding firmly to the banister or wall with both hands to transfer more weight to the hands and not the legs.
- Turning over in bed: This can be difficult but putting a firm pillow or cushion between the knees can help keep the knees a precise distance apart, therefore avoiding moving the pubis.
- Rest: Easier said than done, but when pain is at its worst, there is nothing better than rest.
- A warm bath: Some women have gained some relief by sitting in a warm bath.
- Support belt: GPs may suggest using a support girdle or belt to lift the weight up, away from the pelvis.
Written by: J Joseph – a past sufferer of SPD during pregnancy
Source: www.spd-uk.org
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