The pubic bone is part of the pelvis, and many only become aware of the area when they feel tenderness, pressure, or pain in the front of the lower abdomen. In short, the pubic bone is located at the very front of the pelvic ring, just above the external genitalia, where the right and left sides of the pelvis meet in a joint connection called the pubic symphysis. Below, you'll find a practical explanation of how to locate the area, what it does, and when you should react to pain.

The pubic bone (pubis) is the front part of the hip bone. The pelvis consists of several bone structures, and the pubic bone is the part that meets in the middle at the front. This is where the two pubic bones connect via the symphysis, which is a cartilaginous connection with very limited movement. Anatomically, it lies beneath the lower abdomen and in front of the bladder. Its location means that the area can feel strained during activities that affect the pelvic ring, such as walking, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed.

The symphysis is the "joint" between the two sides of the pubic bone. It consists of a fibrous cartilaginous disc and stabilizing ligaments, which together help to hold the pelvis together. The symphysis is designed for stability, not great mobility, but it can yield a little, which is significant during pregnancy and childbirth, among other things. If the symphysis is irritated or overloaded, pain can often be felt very locally in the front of the pelvis.

If you think of the pelvis as a ring, the symphysis is the "front joint of the ring," while the sacrum is at the back. The front joint is where the pubic bone is located.

You can often locate the area by using these bodily landmarks:

• Find the midline at the bottom of your abdomen.
• Move your hand down towards the area just above the upper edge of your pubic hair.
• The hard area you can feel at the front is the bone structure of the pubic bone.

It's normal to be a little unsure, and you don't need to press hard. If the area is very tender, stop and consider having your symptoms assessed by a professional instead.

The pubic bone and symphysis primarily contribute to pelvic stability. When you walk, run, or stand on one leg (for example, when putting on pants), forces are transferred through the pelvic ring. If the load becomes too high, or if the area is affected by inflammation or irritation, it can cause pain at the front.

Pain in the area can be associated with conditions such as osteitis pubis (inflammatory irritation around the symphysis) or pelvic pain, which some experience during pregnancy. However, an accurate cause requires assessment, as pain in the front of the pelvis can also originate from the hips, muscles, tendons, or other structures.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect ligaments and cartilage, making the pelvis more pliable. For some, this can cause tenderness at the symphysis, especially when:

• turning over in bed
• climbing stairs
• long walks
• standing on one leg (e.g., when getting dressed)

Seek professional help if the pain is increasing, affecting your gait, causing pronounced stabbing pains at the front, or if you develop fever, swelling, redness, or pain after a fall or trauma. A healthcare professional can help with assessment, advice on activity modification, and relevant exercises.

For practical reasons, support around the abdomen and pelvis can provide relief for some pregnant women. If you want to explore support options, Support Belts or the Maternity Support Belt may be relevant to consider if it fits your situation and is recommended by your practitioner.

Finally: If you are unsure where the pubic bone is located or why it hurts, it is perfectly reasonable to get it clarified - the sooner you get the correct assessment, the easier it typically is to adapt your daily life in a safe way.