Pregnancy Related Back and Pelvic Girdle Pain

Back and pelvic pain are common in pregnancy. Around 1 in 5 pregnant women experience pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain, previously known as symphysis pubis dysfunction.

The good news is that early advice, tailored exercises and, where appropriate, hands on treatment can often make everyday activities more manageable.

What is pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain

The pelvic girdle is a ring of bones at the base of the spine. Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) describes pain:

• At the front of the pelvis near the pubic bone
• In the buttocks or sacroiliac joints
• Sometimes into the hips or thighs

Symptoms can include pain when walking, turning in bed, climbing stairs or standing on one leg to get dressed.

PGP is usually related to how the joints, muscles and ligaments of the pelvis are working together rather than to damage of the bones.

When to speak to your midwife or GP

NHS and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists guidance emphasise getting help early. Speak to your midwife, GP or maternity team if:

• Pain is affecting your walking, sleep or daily activities
• You are avoiding movement because of pain
• You notice clicking or grinding in the pelvis that is painful

Chiropractors and other musculoskeletal clinicians may be part of your support team, especially for spinal and pelvic mechanical factors, but this is usually alongside your maternity care, not instead of it.

Seek urgent medical advice if you have red flag symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, strong abdominal pain, fever or reduced baby movements.

Self help and daily life tips

Evidence based patient leaflets suggest several simple strategies:

• Take shorter steps and avoid long strides
• Keep weight evenly through both legs when standing
• Sit down to get dressed instead of standing on one leg
• Sleep with a pillow between your knees to keep hips and pelvis in line
• Plan tasks so you are not on your feet for long periods without breaks
• Use handrails on stairs and take one step at a time if needed

Staying active within your limits is encouraged. Prolonged bed rest is not recommended.

How hands on care might support you

Many women with pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain benefit from a multimodal approach that can include:

• Individual assessment of spine, hips and pelvic joints
• Gentle hands on techniques to improve movement and reduce muscle tension
• Specific exercises to support the pelvis and improve control
• Advice on positions for sitting, standing, sleeping and lifting
• Guidance on support belts if appropriate

At Alpha Chiropractic, techniques are adapted for each stage of pregnancy, with positioning and comfort always prioritised. Where appropriate we will liaise with your midwife or GP.

Staying positive and planning ahead

PGP can be frustrating, especially if you were very active before pregnancy. The POGP and NHS resources emphasise that with the right support many women can continue to work, exercise within limits and prepare for birth more comfortably.

Local note

Alpha Chiropractic is based in Hemel Hempstead and supports pregnant patients from St Albans, Watford, Harpenden, Berkhamsted, Tring, Kings Langley and Apsley. We focus on working alongside your maternity team to help you move with more confidence.

CTA: Struggling with pregnancy related back or pelvic pain? Book an assessment and we can talk through safe options that fit with your midwife or GP’s advice.

Sources

• NHS. Pelvic pain in pregnancy. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/common-symptoms/pelvic-pain/
• NHS Inform. Pelvic girdle pain. https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/pregnancy-and-maternity/pelvic-girdle-pain/
• RCOG. Pelvic girdle pain and pregnancy. https://www.rcog.org.uk/for-the-public/browse-our-patient-information/pelvic-girdle-pain-and-pregnancy/
• POGP. Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain booklet and resources. https://thepogp.co.uk/resources/112/pregnancy_related_pelvic_girdle_pain_for_mothers_to_be_and_new_mothers
• Royal Berkshire NHS, NHS Fife, Lewisham & Greenwich NHS. Pregnancy related pelvic girdle pain leaflets.

Note: We operate a policy that ensures you have adequate time to read the consent form and ask questions. We believe a reflective, no-pressure approach is essential.