Symphysis pubis dysfunction
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) is a mild to severe pelvic joint pain that is experienced by some women after the first trimester of pregnancy or after childbirth. SPD affects approximately one in 35 women. [1]
SPD affects the symphysis pubis, the joint where two of the four pelvic bones (the sacrum and coccyx at the back, and the two hip bones at the sides) meet at the front of the pelvis. The pelvic joints are held together by very strong ligaments that are designed to prevent movement. During pregnancy the body generates the hormone relaxin that gradually loosens all the pelvic ligaments to allow slight movement at the time of birth. A widening of 2-3 mm at the symphysis pubis during pregnancy above the normal gap of 4-5 mm is normal. Occasionally, the ligaments loosen too much and too early before birth, thereby causing pain to occur. In severe cases, diastasis symphysis pubis results.
The main symptoms of SPD are pain in the pubic area, groin, inside the thighs, and sometimes in the lower back and hips. A clicking sound may sometimes be heard while walking and the pain can become severe.
SPD usually occurs during the second trimester of pregnancy onwards. After childbirth the body stops producing relaxin and the ligaments usually regain their original tight form and for most women the symptoms will resolve.
Pelvic girdle pain
Symphysis pubis dysfunction is a symptom of Pelvic girdle pain (PGP).