Pregnancy and SPD (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction)

The journey that I took during my pregnancy with Enzo were both happy and painful. More often than not, I was out of the office. I was then not aware of the condition called SPD also called Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction. So I had to do some research on the condition cause it felt then that it was progressing so fast and as it progresses, I started to have a hard time turning from side to side  when in lying position, worsening by night. I was puzzled at first but as I learned more about the condition, I was made aware of the things that I needed to avoid.

Among those that I needed to remember were as follows:


Brace the pelvic floor muscles before performing any activity which might cause pain
Rest the pelvis
Sit down for tasks where possible (e.g. preparing food, ironing, dressing)
Avoid lifting and carrying
Avoid stepping over things
Avoid straddle movements especially when weight bearing
Bend the knees and keep the legs 'glued together' when turning in bed and getting in and out of bed
Place a pillow between the legs when in bed or resting (will actually give enough comfort for you to sleep!)
Avoid twisting movements of the body

In my case wherein the pain is very severe, using elbow crutches will help take the weight off the pelvis and assist with mobility.

Sadly, there is no evidence in the medical literature to support any particular treatment. As in my case, all signs and symptoms disappeared after giving birth...

A word of caution for those who thinks that they have all the symptoms, pain gets worse each day as tummy  becomes heavier. Pain may become a triggering factor  for a premature labor. Respect your body as if you strain it to its maximum, you will find yourself in a very difficult situation.

Being pregnant is a gift which entails its own risks, but if we learn to take good care of ourselves, pregnancy will be a soft breeze for moms... =)