Pregnancy Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pregnancy can be awesome BUT extremely HARD on your body. Many women experience aches and pains as their pregnancy progresses.

Prenatal back pain, pelvic pain, hip pain, and pubic bone pain can often be attributed to something called PGP or Pelvic Girdle Pain.

What causes this?

PGP (Pelvic Girdle Pain) during pregnancy can have various causes, including:

1. Hormonal changes: During pregnancy, hormonal changes, particularly the hormone relaxin, can loosen the ligaments and joints in the pelvic area, leading to instability and pain.

2. Weight gain: As the baby grows, the additional weight puts pressure on the pelvic joints and muscles, leading to discomfort and pain.

3. Postural changes: Pregnancy alters a woman's center of gravity, causing changes in posture to accommodate the growing fetus. This change in posture can strain the muscles and joints in the pelvic area, contributing to PGP.

4. Previous injuries or conditions: Women who have had previous pelvic injuries, such as pelvic trauma or pelvic instability, may be more susceptible to PGP during pregnancy.

5. Muscle weakness or imbalance: Weakness or imbalance in the muscles supporting the pelvic area can lead to increased strain on the joints and contribute to PGP.

6. Overactivity: Activities that involve repetitive movements or excessive strain on the pelvic area, such as lifting heavy objects or standing for long periods, can exacerbate PGP during pregnancy.

7. Joint misalignment: Misalignment of the pelvic joints, such as the sacroiliac joint or symphysis pubis, can occur during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and increased laxity of ligaments, leading to PGP.

8. Genetic predisposition: Some women may have a genetic predisposition to pelvic joint laxity, making them more prone to developing PGP during pregnancy.

9. Multiple pregnancies: Women carrying twins or multiples may experience increased strain on the pelvic area, leading to a higher risk of developing PGP.

10. Fetal position: The position of the baby in the womb can affect the distribution of weight and pressure on the pelvic area, potentially contributing to PGP.

The aches and pains you experience from PGP generally become worse as your pregnancy progresses, so, what can YOU do to help this?

Managing pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PGP) involves a combination of strategies to alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Here are some tips to help you cope with PGP during pregnancy: