Pelvic girdle pain is pain which you feel around the pelvic joints, lower back, hips and thighs. About 1 in 4 pregnant women experiences pelvic girdle pain.
It can vary from mild to severe. The symptoms can be different for each person. For some people it can interfere with daily activities.
Symptoms of pelvic girdle pain
Symptoms of pelvic girdle pain can vary and may be more severe for some people.
You may have pain or discomfort in 1 or more places.
For example, the pain may be:
- over your pelvis, especially at the pubic bone at the front
- along your groin area
- below your tummy
- in your hips
- across 1 or both sides of your lower back or buttocks (bottom)
Difficulty with movements
You may have difficulty with certain movements, including:
- walking
- putting your weight on 1 leg at a time, such as climbing stairs, dressing or getting out of the bath
- parting your legs - for example, getting in and out of a car
- hip movements, such as turning in bed
- lying on your back or side
When to get help
Non-urgent advice: Ask your midwife, obstetrician or GP for help if the pain or discomfort:
- interferes with your normal daily life
- does not improve within 1 to 2 weeks
They may refer you to a physiotherapist who specialises in pelvic health.
Causes of pelvic girdle pain
Pelvic girdle pain can be caused by a combination of factors.
Pregnancy hormones
Pregnancy hormones make your ligaments more sensitive.
Irritated pelvic girdle joints
Your pelvic girdle joints can become irritated. This happens because of changing muscle activity and increased movement. It can cause pain and discomfort.
Stress and fatigue
Being overly tired or stressed can affect your nervous system, resulting in a greater sensitivity to pain. This is very common in pregnancy, especially when home and work demands are high. When you sleep well, the pain usually eases.
Growing baby
As your baby grows, this can change your posture and put different demands on your muscles, pelvis and lower back. The extra weight can lead to an increased pressure on the pelvic joints.
History of back pain
If you had back pain before becoming pregnant, this can also cause pelvic girdle pain.
Risk factors
Risk factors linked with girdle pain include:
- obesity
- gestational diabetes
- a low level of fitness before pregnancy
