Sarah Davies Therapies
DEEP TISSUE MASSAGE • PONTYPRIDD
SPD/PGP Self-help
SPD/PGP Self-help
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) / Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) / Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
SPD/PGP Self-help
SPD/PGP Self-help
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) / Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) / Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)
Our Story
Our Story
We've loved every minute of our journey
We've loved every minute of our journey
What is it?
What is it?
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but some women may experience extreme discomfort from as early as the first trimester.
Symptoms
Symptoms
- 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.
What is it
What is it
Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but some women may experience extreme discomfort from as early as the first trimester.
Symptoms
- 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.
The cause
The cause
- 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.
Self Help
Self Help
- 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
During Labour
During Labour
- It is possible to have a vaginal birth, the best position would be on all fours.
- Avoid stirrups if possible.
- A water birth would help to support your joints, but extra care must be taken when entering and exiting the pool.
Postpartum
- 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.