Pelvic Girdle Pain PGP/ Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction SPD
Once you are pregnant, acupuncture still offers many benefits. Acupuncture can help to curb morning sickness and Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) or SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction) as it is also called. This condition is a problem that in my experience responds very well to regular acupuncture treatment.
Acupuncture Treatments for Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) or SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction)
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) describes the uncomfortable symptoms felt in the pubic symphysis, commonly during pregnancy. The pubic symphysis is a joint at the front and bottom of the pelvis. It connects the left and right pubic bones. The interposed fibrocartilaginous disk is reinforced by a series of ligaments that attach to it. The joint allows very limited movement of approximately 0.5-1mm. Its job is to stabilise the pelvis and it also helps with movement and absorbs shock during physical activities such as running, so that the pelvic bones can’t move unevenly or shift past the point of comfort. Under hormonal stimulation during pregnancy, there is a softening of the ligaments which hold the joint in place and a widening of the symphysis pubis and the sacroiliac joints thereby leading to discomfort and pain in affected individuals.
The body goes through many changes during pregnancy, and this includes changes to the pelvic joints, muscles and ligaments. The pelvic joint can’t move as comfortably due to pressure from the fetus and the ligaments also loosen and stretch more easily, due to a hormone called relaxin. Whilst stretching and loosening allow the pelvis to expand, the movement in the pelvic joints can be too much. This puts further strain on the pelvis and leads it to shift more than usual. In addition, a further aggravating factor is the extra weight carried in pregnancy and adjusting to moving with that extra weight.
The good news is that the pain usually goes away after the baby is born. But in the meantime, dealing with SPD can affect both mood and quality of life. Tell your pregnancy care provider if you have pain in your pelvic region that makes it hard to climb stairs, get out of cars or walk. While being slightly uncomfortable is normal in pregnancy, being in pain and experiencing severe limitation when doing typical activities isn’t something that should be accepted as a matter of course.
References:
The easiest way to contact me is by phone on 0758 4434976. Please leave your name, number and a short message. I will return your call on the same day. Alternatively, you can message me by clicking on one of the following icons:-
Acupuncture Treatments for Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) or SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction)
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) describes the uncomfortable symptoms felt in the pubic symphysis, commonly during pregnancy. The pubic symphysis is a joint at the front and bottom of the pelvis. It connects the left and right pubic bones. The interposed fibrocartilaginous disk is reinforced by a series of ligaments that attach to it. The joint allows very limited movement of approximately 0.5-1mm. Its job is to stabilise the pelvis and it also helps with movement and absorbs shock during physical activities such as running, so that the pelvic bones can’t move unevenly or shift past the point of comfort. Under hormonal stimulation during pregnancy, there is a softening of the ligaments which hold the joint in place and a widening of the symphysis pubis and the sacroiliac joints thereby leading to discomfort and pain in affected individuals.
The body goes through many changes during pregnancy, and this includes changes to the pelvic joints, muscles and ligaments. The pelvic joint can’t move as comfortably due to pressure from the fetus and the ligaments also loosen and stretch more easily, due to a hormone called relaxin. Whilst stretching and loosening allow the pelvis to expand, the movement in the pelvic joints can be too much. This puts further strain on the pelvis and leads it to shift more than usual. In addition, a further aggravating factor is the extra weight carried in pregnancy and adjusting to moving with that extra weight.
The good news is that the pain usually goes away after the baby is born. But in the meantime, dealing with SPD can affect both mood and quality of life. Tell your pregnancy care provider if you have pain in your pelvic region that makes it hard to climb stairs, get out of cars or walk. While being slightly uncomfortable is normal in pregnancy, being in pain and experiencing severe limitation when doing typical activities isn’t something that should be accepted as a matter of course.
References:
- Pai, Marcus Yu Bin et al. “Acupuncture for pregnancy-related pain in the lower back and posterior pelvic girdle.” Revista da Associacao Medica Brasileira (1992) vol. 69,suppl 1 e2023S101. 4 Aug. 2023, doi:10.1590/1806-9282.2023S101
- Betts, Debra (2006). The Essential Guide to Acupuncture in Pregnancy and Childbirth. East Sussex, England: The Journal of Chinese Medicine.
The easiest way to contact me is by phone on 0758 4434976. Please leave your name, number and a short message. I will return your call on the same day. Alternatively, you can message me by clicking on one of the following icons:-
The contents of this website are for information only and are not intended to be a substitute for taking medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner such as your GP especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medication. This website is designed to be an information resource for those who are deciding whether or not acupuncture treatment is suitable for them. You will find links to relevant research articles wherever conditions are highlighted. The fact-sheet page contains the latest information and research available from the British Acupuncture Council. Information is continually updated so do check back regularly.
