Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), also called lightning crotch, refers to pain and discomfort in the pelvic region, specifically at the symphysis pubis joint. This joint, located at the front of your pelvis, connects the left and right pubic bones.
What causes SPD?
The symphysis pubis joint is normally quite stable, held together by ligaments. However, during pregnancy, hormonal changes (specifically relaxin) loosen these ligaments to allow for the expansion necessary for childbirth. This can let the two sides of your pelvis shift or move unevenly which can be very uncomfortable.
Recognizing the Symptoms:
SPD symptoms can vary in intensity, but common signs include:
Pain in the pubic bone area, which may radiate to the groin, inner thighs, or lower back.
Clicking or grinding sensation in the pelvic area.
Pain that worsens with movement, such as walking, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed.
Difficulty separating your legs.
Pain when standing on one leg.
Managing SPD:
While SPD can be painful, there are several strategies you can employ to manage the discomfort and improve your quality of life:
Rest and Activity Modification:
Take frequent breaks during prolonged standing or sitting.
Try to minimize activities that require you to stand on one leg.
Avoid heavy lifting.
Supportive Measures:
Wearing a pelvic support belt can help stabilize the joint and reduce pain.
Using ice packs or heat therapy can provide temporary pain relief.
Pain Management:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage mild to moderate pain.
Exercise and Stretching:
Gentle exercises, such as swimming or yoga, can help improve flexibility and strength.
Stretching the muscles surrounding the pelvis, such as the hip flexors and hamstrings, can also be beneficial.
Chiropractic care:
Seek out a chiropractor who is certified in the Webster Technique which is specifically for pregnancy.
Maintain Good Posture:
Good posture helps to distribute weight evenly across the pelvis, reducing stress on the symphysis pubis joint. As an added bonus, good posture encourages baby to get into a good position for birth.
Will SPD go away?
SPD tends to become more intense as pregnancy progresses. It goes away after birth as the body stops producing the hormone relaxin. Some women notice relief within a few days after birth and for other women it can take a few months before it is completely resolved. SPD tends to be more intense with subsequent pregnancies.
What causes SPD?
The symphysis pubis joint is normally quite stable, held together by ligaments. However, during pregnancy, hormonal changes (specifically relaxin) loosen these ligaments to allow for the expansion necessary for childbirth. This can let the two sides of your pelvis shift or move unevenly which can be very uncomfortable.
Recognizing the Symptoms:
SPD symptoms can vary in intensity, but common signs include:
Pain in the pubic bone area, which may radiate to the groin, inner thighs, or lower back.
Clicking or grinding sensation in the pelvic area.
Pain that worsens with movement, such as walking, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed.
Difficulty separating your legs.
Pain when standing on one leg.
Managing SPD:
While SPD can be painful, there are several strategies you can employ to manage the discomfort and improve your quality of life:
Rest and Activity Modification:
Take frequent breaks during prolonged standing or sitting.
Try to minimize activities that require you to stand on one leg.
Avoid heavy lifting.
Supportive Measures:
Wearing a pelvic support belt can help stabilize the joint and reduce pain.
Using ice packs or heat therapy can provide temporary pain relief.
Pain Management:
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage mild to moderate pain.
Exercise and Stretching:
Gentle exercises, such as swimming or yoga, can help improve flexibility and strength.
Stretching the muscles surrounding the pelvis, such as the hip flexors and hamstrings, can also be beneficial.
Chiropractic care:
Seek out a chiropractor who is certified in the Webster Technique which is specifically for pregnancy.
Maintain Good Posture:
Good posture helps to distribute weight evenly across the pelvis, reducing stress on the symphysis pubis joint. As an added bonus, good posture encourages baby to get into a good position for birth.
Will SPD go away?
SPD tends to become more intense as pregnancy progresses. It goes away after birth as the body stops producing the hormone relaxin. Some women notice relief within a few days after birth and for other women it can take a few months before it is completely resolved. SPD tends to be more intense with subsequent pregnancies.
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