The Difference Between Pelvic Discomfort and Pelvic Dislocation During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a time filled with joy and anticipation, but it can also bring with it certain challenges. Two common conditions that pregnant women often experience are pelvic discomfort and pelvic prolapse. Although they sound similar, there are important differences between them, both in cause, symptoms, and management.

Hormonal influence: Relaxin

When you are pregnant, your body produces increased levels of the hormone relaxin. Relaxin is designed to soften joints, which especially affects the pelvic region. This hormone affects soft muscle groups and organs throughout the body, which may explain why many pregnant women experience increased urination in early pregnancy. Relaxin levels are highest in early pregnancy and then decrease slightly, but remain elevated throughout the rest of the pregnancy.

Pelvic floor dysfunction (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction – SPD)

Reason :

Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when relaxin affects the symphysis pubis joint, which is a joint at the front of the pelvis near the pubic bone. Relaxin softens the ligaments that normally hold the pelvis stable, which can cause the pelvis to become more flexible and “loose” from its normal position.

Symptoms :

• Pain in the area of ​​the pubic bone and symphysis.
• Feeling of pressure and constant pain in the affected area.
• Acute pain with movements such as walking up and down stairs or standing on one leg.
• In severe cases, the pelvis can drop so far that it becomes difficult or impossible to walk.

Diagnosis and treatment:

Diagnosis can be difficult without an MRI scan, which is rarely offered during pregnancy. Treatment focuses on core stabilization, pelvic floor muscle training, and weight-bearing exercises. Severe cases may require the use of crutches or even a wheelchair.

Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)

Cause:

Pelvic pain is a broader term that covers pain throughout the pelvic area, including the sacrum and hips. This pain can be caused by a combination of hormonal changes, weight gain, changes in posture, and muscular imbalances.

Symptoms:

• Pain in the lower back, sacrum and hips.
• Pain that radiates down the legs.
• Discomfort that worsens with certain activities or after sitting in the same position for a long time.

Treatment :

Treatment for pelvic pain also involves core stabilization and exercise. Because pelvic pain does not necessarily involve the same degree of ligament laxity as pelvic luxation, pregnant women can often find relief through exercise and ergonomic adjustments in their daily lives. Manual therapy, massage, and the use of heat and cold packs can also help relieve pain.

Prevention and management

Core stabilization:

Whether you are experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic discomfort, core training is essential. Exercises that strengthen the lower back, pelvis, and abdominal area can help stabilize the pelvis and reduce pain.

Ergonomic adjustments:

Pregnant women should pay attention to their posture and avoid strenuous movements. It is important to rest and change positions regularly, especially if you have a sedentary job.

Manual therapy and massage:

Manual therapy and massage can provide acute pain relief by loosening tense muscles and reducing inflammation.

After birth

Both pelvic floor dysfunction and pelvic discomfort tend to improve after childbirth as relaxin levels decrease and the load on the pelvis is reduced. However, for many women, it still requires continued core and pelvic floor rehabilitation to regain full functionality and comfort.

Conclusion

To summarize, the primary difference between pelvic discomfort and pelvic luxation is that pelvic luxation involves a specific loosening of the symphysis pubis joint caused by relaxin, while pelvic luxation is a broader term for pain throughout the pelvic area caused by a combination of hormonal, biomechanical, and muscular factors. Both conditions require attention and proper management to ensure a comfortable and healthy pregnancy.

Carriwell offers products designed to support pregnant women through these challenges. Their support belts and ergonomic clothing helps relieve pain and improve comfort during pregnancy.

This article was written by Maria Dior – Midwife from BabyAkademiet, written for Carriwell