Bumps, Twinges, and Baby Kicks: Unmasking the Mystery of Pelvic Girdle Pain (Part 2)

Alright, in part 2 of this Blog series (you can read part 1 here) let’s dive into the world of pregnancy discomforts, where your body can feel like a puzzle that’s constantly changing its pieces. One of the main players in this grand production is pelvic girdle pain (PGP), a sensation that can leave you scratching your head and rubbing your belly in confusion. But fear not, because we’re here to unravel the mystery behind PGP’s two main characters: pubic symphysis pain and sacroiliac joint pain.

Pubic Symphysis Pain: The Central Drama Queen

Cue the spotlight on the pubic symphysis, that bony structure right in the centre of your pelvis. You might think of it as the stage where all the action happens – childbirth, walking, and even just shifting your weight from one foot to the other. But during pregnancy, this seemingly stable joint can become the scene of a rebellion. It’s like your pelvis decided to host a party for all the pain receptors, and guess who’s the guest of honour? Pubic symphysis pain.

This type of pain likes to make its grand entrance later in pregnancy, strutting its stuff after the 26-week mark. Imagine feeling like your pelvis is a creaky door that just won’t open without protest. Rolling in bed? Say hello to pubic symphysis pain. Walking like a regular human being? Nope, it’s like your pelvis has a vendetta against normal strides.

It’s a bit of a drama queen, honestly. It’s the type of pain that demands attention and doesn’t mind stealing the limelight. But remember, it’s not the only star in this show.

Sacroiliac Joint Pain: The Sneaky Backstage Intruder

Ladies and gentlemen, let’s now introduce the sacroiliac joint (SIJ), those two joints that connect your sacrum to your ilium. These joints are usually pretty chill, just hanging out and providing stability to your pelvis. But then pregnancy comes along and whispers, “Hey, let’s mix things up a bit.”

Sacroiliac joint pain sneaks in like a backstage intruder, causing discomfort that often starts in the medial buttock and then stages a full-blown rebellion that can extend to the outside of the hip and even the back of the thigh. It’s like your SIJs decided to join a rebellion against comfort.

This pain isn’t shy about making its presence known. It’s triggered by simple things like standing, walking, or even attempting the occasional pirouette. And here’s the twist: it can cause instability, like a sneaky plot twist in a thriller novel. Your body might decide to unlock the pelvis, leading to an anterior tilt (bum to the sky) that makes the SIJ the wild card in your discomfort deck.

Connecting the Dots: Hormones and the Great Sensation Symphony

Now, what’s causing this drama? Enter hormones, those little chemical messengers that love stirring things up. During pregnancy, hormones decide to play the “let’s make things flexible” game. Ligaments become more relaxed, joints become more mobile, and suddenly, your pelvis is throwing a sensation symphony worthy of a standing ovation.

Whether it’s pubic symphysis pain or sacroiliac joint pain, both are results of this hormonal whirlwind. Your body is adjusting, preparing for the journey ahead. But here’s the catch – while hormones are the conductors of this sensation symphony, you’re the one in control of the dance moves.

In Conclusion: Navigating the Sensation Symphony

So, there you have it, the twin sensations of pubic symphysis pain and sacroiliac joint pain, dancing their way through your pregnancy journey. They’re like characters in a play, each with their own unique personality and story to tell. As you waltz through pregnancy, remember that these sensations are part of your body’s grand performance, showcasing its incredible ability to adapt and change.

But don’t let the show run wild without direction. If you find yourself in the midst of a sensation symphony that’s a bit too intense, remember that healthcare professionals are the directors who can guide you through the steps. Whether it’s pubic symphysis pain stealing the show or sacroiliac joint pain trying to make an unexpected entrance, you’re the star of this performance, and you’ve got the power to choreograph a journey that’s as comfortable as possible. Seek assistance today from a women’s health physiotherapist to take back control of the show.

In Part 3 of this Blog series, we’ll talk you through a step-by-step treatment plan to overcome your pain, including how Clinical Pilates may be a secret weapon to optimise your tissues throughout your pregnancy.

If you are suffering from low back or pelvic girdle pain, you can make a booking to see one of our Women’s Health Physiotherapists specialising in pelvic girdle and low back pain HERE.

Author: Nicole Symons