Maternity Network

Why?
The symphysis pubis is the name given to where two bones meet at the front of the pelvis. Normally, these joints are not designed to allow movement. However, when a woman becomes pregnant, a hormone called relaxin is produced, which loosens all the pelvic ligaments in order to allow the pelvis some slight movement at the time of birth.

For some reason, the ligaments occasionally loosen too much and too early before birth. This means they can’t keep the pelvic joints stable so the pelvis moves, especially on weight bearing. All this is made worse by the increased weight of the growing baby and sometimes the symphysis pubis joint actually separates slightly. The result is mild to severe pain, usually in the pubic area, and is called SPD. It can be more uncomfortable when separating your knees. You may be more likely to get this if your baby is posterior and/or breech.

*The information on this site is purely holistic and does not replace medical advice. If you have a medical problem or are concerned, please see your health professional.

Suggestions from the Maternity Network:

• Take a look at your birth plan and choose positions that are comfortable and preferably weightless like The Dangle or a water birth.
• Don’t let it get worse – get a maternity belt as soon as you’re diagnosed. We can’t promise that you’ll be the height of fashion, but it’ll certainly do its job.
• Physiotherapy, chiropractic or osteopathy is often recommended by GP’s to realign your pelvis.