Can I have a vaginal delivery with symphysis pubis dysfunction?

In many cases, women with symphysis pubis dysfunction can have a vaginal delivery safely. The condition alone does not usually require a caesarean birth. Your doctor can assess your symptoms and suggest suitable labour positions and movements to minimise pelvic discomfort during delivery.

How long does pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain last?

Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain improves after childbirth, although recovery varies between women. Some may continue experiencing symptoms for several weeks or longer and may need follow-up care.

Does SPD increase the risk of pelvic problems after childbirth?

SPD does not necessarily cause long-term pelvic problems after childbirth. Most women improve after delivery, but some may have ongoing pain or stiffness and benefit from assessment, physiotherapy, and appropriate follow-up care.

Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: Why Does Walking Hurt?

Walking is usually a simple part of daily life, but pregnancy-related pelvic pain can make even a short walk uncomfortable. Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), now commonly called pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PGP), can cause pain around the pubic bone, groin, hips, or lower back.

What is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction in Pregnancy?

Symphysis pubis dysfunction is pain and discomfort in the joints and the area around the pelvis during pregnancy. This condition may be referred to as pregnancy-related girdle pain (PGP).

According to Dr Nirmala Chandrashekhar, hormonal and bodily changes during pregnancy may harm the joints and ligaments around the pelvis. The alteration in the woman's body weight and posture may create extra pressure on this area as the pregnancy advances. The pain can differ from one woman to another; some women may experience mild discomfort, while others are unable to perform regular movements.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy should not be ignored. Early assessment, appropriate exercises, and simple movement changes can help reduce discomfort and support safer, more comfortable daily activities.Dr Nirmala Chandrashekhar

Why Can Walking Become Painful?

Walking involves coordinated movement of the pelvis, hips, and legs. When the pelvic joints and surrounding tissues are under extra strain, this movement may become painful.

Pregnancy can contribute to pelvic discomfort because of:

Hormonal changes that affect the joints and supporting ligaments
Increasing weight as pregnancy progresses
Changes in posture and the way the body carries its weight
Additional strain on the pelvic joints
Reduced pelvic stability in some women

Pain may become more noticeable during activities that involve moving one leg separately or putting extra pressure on the pelvis.

What Does Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Pain Feel Like?

PGP doesn't affect every woman in the same way. Pain may be felt in different parts of the pelvic area, including:

Around the pubic bone at the front of the pelvis
In the groin
Around the hips
In the lower back

Some women may notice pain mainly while walking, while others may experience discomfort during several everyday activities.

Activities That May Trigger Pain

Certain movements can make pelvic pain more noticeable. These may include:

Walking for longer periods
Climbing or coming down stairs
Turning over in bed
Getting into or out of a car
Standing on one leg
Moving around after sitting for a long time

Dr Nirmala Chandrashekhar says that the severity of symptoms can differ between individuals. Pelvic pain does not necessarily mean that something is wrong with the pregnancy, but persistent or severe pain should not be ignored.

How is SPD Managed During Pregnancy?

Treatment is usually aimed at reducing discomfort and helping women move safely. The approach depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual's needs.

A doctor may recommend:

Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can suggest safe exercises to improve pelvic stability and movement
Suitable exercises: Gentle pregnancy-safe exercises may help maintain strength and support around the pelvis
Supportive belts: A pelvic support belt may provide additional support for some women
Activity modification: Changing the way certain daily activities are performed can help reduce strain
Avoiding painful movements: Women may be advised to limit movements that clearly increase their discomfort

The goal is not necessarily to stop all physical activity. Instead, movements can be adjusted to reduce pain while helping the woman remain as comfortable and active as possible.

When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

If pelvic pain is hindering you, urgently seek medical attention if:

Pain continues without stopping: The pain does not end even when you rest or change activities
Intense pain: When the pain increases to the point of causing difficulties in your walking
Difficulties in movement: Consult your doctor if daily movements like moving in bed, walking up the stairs, or getting in the car become painful
Increasing problems: Don't ignore the increasing pain during
Lesser usual activities: Consult your doctor if pelvic pain stops you from carrying out normal activities comfortably

Symphysis pubis dysfunction can make simple movements such as walking, climbing stairs, or turning in bed uncomfortable during pregnancy. However, women do not have to cope with severe pelvic pain without support. Pay attention to activities that worsen symptoms, make safe movement adjustments, and discuss persistent or severe pain with your doctor. Early assessment can help identify the cause and guide suitable physiotherapy, exercises, or support, helping you stay comfortable and active.

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FAQs on Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy: Why Does Walking Hurt?

Can I have a vaginal delivery with symphysis pubis dysfunction?
In many cases, women with symphysis pubis dysfunction can have a vaginal delivery safely. The condition alone does not usually require a caesarean birth. Your doctor can assess your symptoms and suggest suitable labour positions and movements to minimise pelvic discomfort during delivery.
How long does pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain last?
Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain improves after childbirth, although recovery varies between women. Some may continue experiencing symptoms for several weeks or longer and may need follow-up care.
Does SPD increase the risk of pelvic problems after childbirth?
SPD does not necessarily cause long-term pelvic problems after childbirth. Most women improve after delivery, but some may have ongoing pain or stiffness and benefit from assessment, physiotherapy, and appropriate follow-up care.