Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy: What It Is and What Can Help
Pregnancy can bring so many changes to your body, and for some people, one of the hardest parts is pelvic girdle pain.
You might hear it called PGP, or sometimes by its older name, SPD. Whatever name is used, it can be really uncomfortable and, for some people, completely exhausting.
It can affect walking, getting dressed, turning over in bed, climbing stairs, getting in and out of the car, and just getting through normal daily life.
And if you’ve ever been told to “just take it easy” or that it’s “just one of those pregnancy things”, it can feel really frustrating.
PGP is common, but that does not mean you have to just put up with it. There are things that can help, and it is always worth asking for support.
What is pelvic girdle pain?
Pelvic girdle pain is pain around the joints of the pelvis.
Your pelvis includes the joints at the back, called the sacroiliac joints, and the joint at the front, called the pubic symphysis. During pregnancy, your body naturally softens and loosens ligaments to help prepare for birth.
For some people, this does not cause much discomfort. For others, it can lead to pain, stiffness, clicking, grinding, or a feeling that the pelvis is not moving comfortably.
PGP can be mild, but it can also be really painful and limiting.
What does PGP feel like?
PGP can feel different from person to person, but common symptoms include:
pain at the front of the pelvis, around the pubic bone
pain in the lower back or hips
pain that spreads into the groin or inner thighs
clicking or grinding around the pelvis
pain when walking, climbing stairs or standing on one leg
pain when turning over in bed
pain getting in and out of the car
symptoms that feel worse later in the day or after being active
Some people can still manage day to day with a few changes. Others find it really affects sleep, movement and everyday life.
Either way, you deserve to be listened to.
Why does it happen?
There is not always one simple reason why someone develops PGP, but there are a few things that may play a part.
Hormonal changes in pregnancy can make the ligaments around the pelvis more flexible. Your posture and centre of gravity also change as your bump grows. Previous back, hip or pelvic problems can sometimes make PGP more likely too.
Sometimes the pelvis may not be moving evenly, which can put extra strain on certain joints and muscles.
It is not your fault, and it is not because you are doing pregnancy “wrong”.
When does PGP usually start?
PGP can start at any point in pregnancy. Some people notice it quite early, while others develop symptoms later as their bump grows.
It is often noticed more from the second trimester onwards, but there is no set rule.
The important thing is not to wait until it becomes unbearable before asking for help. The earlier you mention it, the sooner you can get advice and support.
Who can help with PGP?
If you think you may have pelvic girdle pain, speak to your midwife or GP. They may be able to refer you to physiotherapy or suggest local support.
You can also seek support privately from professionals such as a women’s health physiotherapist or an osteopath with experience in pregnancy-related pelvic pain.
A proper assessment can help you understand what is going on and what might help your body specifically.
What can help?
There is not one magic fix for everyone, but there are lots of things that can make a difference.
Gentle movement and adapting daily activities
Small changes can really help. For example, sitting down to get dressed, keeping your knees together when getting in and out of the car, and avoiding movements that make the pain worse.
That does not mean doing nothing. It usually means finding ways to move that feel manageable and supported.
Physiotherapy
A physiotherapist, especially one with experience in pregnancy or women’s health, can give you exercises and advice to help support your pelvis and reduce strain.
They may also advise on posture, movement, support belts and how to manage symptoms day to day.
Osteopathy
Some people find osteopathic treatment really helpful during pregnancy. An osteopath can assess how your pelvis, back and hips are moving and may use gentle hands-on treatment to help reduce discomfort.
Pelvic support belts
A pelvic support belt can help some people feel more stable and comfortable, especially when walking or standing. It is best to get advice on the right type of belt and how to wear it properly.
Water-based movement
Swimming or gentle movement in water can feel lovely for some pregnant people because the water helps support the weight of your bump and reduces pressure on the pelvis.
Pain relief
Paracetamol is often used in pregnancy, but always speak to your midwife, GP or pharmacist before taking medication, especially if you are unsure what is safe for you.
Things that may make PGP worse
Everyone is different, but common triggers can include:
standing on one leg
climbing lots of stairs
wide leg movements
sitting with legs crossed
lifting or carrying heavy bags
pushing through pain
getting in and out of the car awkwardly
rolling over in bed without support
A helpful way to think about it is to try and keep movements more balanced and symmetrical where you can.
Will PGP affect birth?
For most people, PGP does not mean you cannot have a vaginal birth.
It is really helpful to include PGP in your birth preferences, so your midwives know what movements or positions may be uncomfortable for you.
You may want to think about birth positions that keep your legs supported and avoid opening your knees wider than feels comfortable. Side-lying, all fours, upright supported positions or using pillows can sometimes help.
If your PGP is severe, speak to your midwife or consultant so you can make a plan that feels safe and realistic for you.
Does PGP go away after birth?
For many people, PGP improves after birth as the body recovers and pregnancy hormones settle.
But for some, discomfort can continue postnatally. If you are still in pain after birth, it is worth asking for help rather than assuming you just have to live with it.
Postnatal physiotherapy, osteopathy or a specialist postnatal assessment, such as a Mummy MOT®, may be helpful.
Local support for PGP in Bexley and Dartford
If you are local to Bexley, Erith, Dartford or the surrounding areas and are struggling with pelvic girdle pain, please do not feel you have to just carry on and hope it goes away.
We recommend Bexley Osteopathic Clinic as a local provider of pregnancy osteopathic care. They support people with pregnancy-related aches and pains, including pelvic girdle pain, and also offer postnatal support.
Bexley Osteopathic Clinic
16A Bexley High Street, Bexley, DA5 1AD
Tel: 01322 529326
Website: https://bexleyosteopathicclinic.co.uk/
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This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace the advice of your midwife or maternity team. If you are ever unsure whether you are in labour, or if you have any concerns at all about your health or your baby's wellbeing, always contact your maternity unit or midwife. In an emergency, call 999.