Sarah Davies Therapies

DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE • PONTYPRIDD

SPD/PGP Self-help

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Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but some women may experience extreme discomfort from as early as the first trimester.

Mild, moderate or severe pain in the pubic bone, hips, groin, lower abdomen, buttocks, lower back and inner thighs, on one side or both, that may be accompanied with a clicking sound or sensation.

Symptoms are aggravated by the increasing weight of the baby, changes in the body's centre of gravity and posture.

The condition is usually diagnosed by its symptoms, through assessments of the pelvic joints and spine and sometimes an ultrasound.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but some women may experience extreme discomfort from as early as the first trimester.

Mild, moderate or severe pain in the pubic bone, hips, groin, lower abdomen, buttocks, lower back and inner thighs, on one side or both, that may be accompanied with a clicking sound or sensation.

Symptoms are aggravated by the increasing weight of the baby, changes in the body's centre of gravity and posture.

The condition is usually diagnosed by its symptoms, through assessments of the pelvic joints and spine and sometimes an ultrasound.

It is common during pregnancy due to the pregnancy hormone 'relaxin' that soften the ligaments of the body and allows the pelvis to open to make room for the baby during birth.

This condition is becoming more popular, possible due to changes in modern lifestyles. Women are spending more time sitting, through desk jobs or driving, so muscles are less toned and unable to support the pelvic girdle.

At the other end of the spectrum, women who have exercised excessively may already have a weakened pelvic structure.

Also, a slight displacement of the pelvis means there is already unequal stress prior to pregnancy.

Sit with a straight, well supported back
keep the knees together when you stand up and turn over in bed
Wear flat, supporting shoes
Sit tall when driving - you may need to adjust the mirror each morning as your posture changes
Avoid bending, squatting, over stretching and taking the stairs whenever possible
Use pillows to support when sitting and sleeping. Keep your legs parallel to prevent your top leg twisting across your body
The yoga Cat Paws position on all fours can help release tension and help to strengthen the muscles
Tucking your 'tail bone' (coccyx) under will help to stretch out the lower back muscles. This might be easier to do while laying on your back
Massage can help to gently stretch, tone and strengthen the supporting muscles
Find the position that is most comfortable for you - some may find that keeping the legs closed help to ease the discomfort, while others prefer the legs being apart slightly
Sports Tape can be used to support bump and take the pressure off the hips
Visit your GP if you are in severe or constant pain

It is possible to have a vaginal birth, the best position would be on all fours.

A water birth would help to support your joints, but extra care must be taken when entering and exiting the pool.

You may find after delivery the condition improves. You will still need to be careful to avoid excessive leg abduction movements for 4-6 weeks.

Gentle back, abdominal and pelvic floor exercises will help to strengthen the pelvis.

Massage or reflexology from a trained therapist in postnatal care can help support your recovery.