Something CAN be done for Pubic Bone Pain!

If you've had pubic bone pain related to pregnancy, I am extremely sympathetic. The pain can be quite limiting. Any activity that involves lifting or moving a leg such as walking, taking stairs or putting on clothing can be painful. Women often have difficulty sleeping because any movement such as turning over in bed can create intense pain. Even intimacy with a partner can become difficult if a woman is experiencing pubic bone pain.

This is a very common complaint in my Chiropractic practice, and determining the cause of the pain is the first step. The most common cause of pubic bone pain during pregnancy is Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction. The pubic symphysis is a stiff joint in the front of the pelvis where two large bones meet. Laxity or loosening in the ligaments of the pelvis can occur as a woman's body is preparing for birth, and this can alter the way the joint functions. Tremendous soreness can be the result.

Women typically describe that they have pain directly over the pubic bone, and they sometimes say it's as if there is pain "inside" their pelvis. This type of discomfort usually comes up during pregnancy, but sometimes starts only after a birth. Either way, a Chiropractor can tell whether or not there is a problem with this joint and can help rule out other possibilities for the pain.

It is very important not to ignore this problem because it indicates a lack of proper pelvic alignment. If you've read my previous articles in From Belly to Baby, you know how important it is to have a correctly aligned pelvis leading up to a birth. Proper movement and alignment of the pelvis allow for easier labour and reduces the likelihood of interventions during a birth.

Many women are told that nothing can be done about pubic bone pain, that they must endure the discomfort, and that it will "go away after the baby comes." The truth is, there's a lot that can be done! Here are some tips that can help:

1) Check in with your Midwife or Obstetrician to ensure that everything is on track with your pregnancy, and to rule out other possibilities for the pain.

2) Icing can help a lot with the inflammation and pain. Use an ice pack wrapped in a tea towel and ice for 10 minutes on, then 10 minutes off. Repeat as required.

3) Sleep on your side with a pillow between your knees to minimize stress on the pelvis and lower back. Side lying is the best sleeping position for any pregnant woman as it maintains a neutral pelvic alignment. You can also place a pillow under your belly.

4) Lie on your back and squeeze a pillow between your knees for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times, and perform this exercise 5 times per day (of all the "at home" recommendations, this appears to be the one that allows women to experience the most relief).

5) Consider taking a fish oil (omega 3 fatty acid) supplement to reduce inflammation. Discuss this with your healthcare provider.

6) Get checked by a Chiropractor! A Chiropractor can tell you whether or not your pubic symphysis is misaligned by doing some very simple and non-invasive tests. I see amazing results in my practice with Pubic Symphysis Dysfunction, it is one of those conditions that responds very quickly to Chiropractic care. The adjustments are gentle and generally quite comfortable for the patient. Women are extremely happy when this condition is cleared up before the baby makes an appearance!

If you hear a woman complaining about this condition, insist that they speak with a Chiropractor. Their case will be assessed to determine whether or not Chiropractic care is appropriate; if it's not a Chiropractic case, they may be referred to another healthcare professional who can help. There's no reason for women to live with this kind of discomfort when they should be enjoying the anticipation of an upcoming birth!