Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction is the name given to pain and mobility problems caused by instability of the pelvis during pregnancy.

During pregancy pain can develop in the joints in and around the pelvis.  This is usually caused by altered position of the joints (asymmetry).  The pelvis is a closed system of bone and muscle so any change in movement at one joint will affect the function of all the others.  The combination of unstable joints, the growing baby and changes in the centre of gravity and posture can result in varying degrees of pelvic pain.

The pelvis can also be damaged by trauma eg. a fall or a blow to the area, or by labour itself, although that is quite unusual.

The pain may remain static, or may increase as the pregancy progresses.  However, it is important to seek treatment early, as checking the alignment of the joints and realigning them can greatly reduce pain during pregnancy.  Members of the group have also found that this treatment speeds up recovery postnatally.

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