Pelvic Girdle Pain

What is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a very common condition that many women experience during pregnancy, with nearly half of women experiencing PGP at some point in their pregnancy. PGP is characterised by pain and discomfort in the pelvic region and can affect a woman’s ability to perform daily activities. Symptom presentations can vary, but the most common symptoms relate to pain in the lower back, hips, groin and coccyx.  Other symptoms can include pain referring down into the legs or clicking sensation in the pelvis. Pain usually occurs during single leg movements such as walking or going up and down stairs, but symptoms can also be experienced with standing or sitting for long periods.

Causes of PGP in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the body undergoes numerous changes that can contribute to the development of PGP. The increased weight of the growing baby places additional strain on the pelvic joints, which can cause pain and discomfort. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, such as the production of Relaxin and increase in oestrogen levels, can also contribute to PGP. Relaxin is a hormone that helps to soften the ligaments in the pelvis to prepare for childbirth, while increases in oestrogen can also loosen ligaments. While this is necessary for a successful delivery, it can also lead to instability in the pelvis and contribute to PGP.

Treatment Options for PGP in Pregnancy

Physiotherapy is an extremely effective treatment option for PGP in pregnancy. A physiotherapist can assess your symptoms and develop a personalised treatment plan. Treatment options may include:

1. Pelvic floor muscle exercises: These exercises can help to improve the strength and stability of the pelvic floor muscles, which can help to reduce PGP.
2. Stretching: Stretching helps to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles surrounding the pelvis.
3. Manual therapy: Techniques such as massage, joint mobilisation, and manipulation can help to reduce pain and improve mobility.
4. Pelvic belts: Can help to support the pelvis and reduce pain and discomfort.
5. Education: Strong posture and good body mechanics can help to prevent further strain on the pelvic joints.
6. Strengthening: Increasing the strength and activation of the muscles around the pelvis can help stabilise the pelvis improving symptoms

Prevention of PGP in Pregnancy

Prevention is key when it comes to PGP in pregnancy. Some steps that can be taken to prevent PGP include:

1. Regular exercise: Regular exercise can help to improve muscle strength and flexibility, which can help to prevent PGP.
2. Proper posture: Maintaining proper posture can help to prevent strain on the pelvis and reduce the risk of PGP.
3. Rest: Taking time to rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help to prevent further strain on the pelvic joints.
4. Using good technique: When lifting heavy objects or performing other activities that require bending or lifting, it is important to use good technique to avoid straining the pelvis.

PGP is a common condition that affects many women during pregnancy. Physiotherapy is a front-line treatment option for PGP in pregnancy. Treatment options may include pelvic floor muscle exercises, stretching exercises, manual therapy, support belts, and education. Prevention is key when it comes to PGP in pregnancy, seeing a physiotherapist early in your pregnancy to assess and prescribe exercises to increase strength around the pelvis is key. Our physios here at Instinct Health will teach you preventative strategies will help reduce the chance of experiencing PGP. Each individual’s symptoms of PGP will vary greatly, and may differ between first, second or any subsequent pregnancies. If you, or someone you know, is experiencing PGP please get in contact with one of our physios today to alleviate your symptoms as soon as possible.