# SPD — Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

Source: https://www.pregnancypowerhour.com/conditions/spd
Last updated: 2026-07-15

> Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), also known as pelvic girdle pain (PGP), is a common pregnancy discomfort characterized by pain in the pubic bone and pelvic area.

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), often referred to as pelvic girdle pain (PGP), is a specific type of discomfort centered around the pubic bone and pelvis that many individuals experience during pregnancy.

## What it is
This condition, known medically as pelvic girdle pain (PGP), encompasses discomfort in the pelvic joints, including the pubic symphysis. It's quite common, affecting a significant number of pregnancies to varying degrees. The primary cause is often attributed to the hormone relaxin, which softens and loosens the ligaments in the pelvis, preparing your body for birth. When this loosening combines with uneven or asymmetric loading on the pubic symphysis joint, it can lead to the characteristic pain of SPD. Understanding this physiological shift can bring a sense of clarity to what might feel like a sudden and puzzling discomfort.

## What it tends to feel like
Individuals often describe SPD as a sharp, shooting, or grinding pain directly over the pubic bone, sometimes radiating into the groin, inner thighs, or even the lower back. This sensation can be particularly noticeable with movements that involve separating the legs, such as getting out of bed, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed. It's a discomfort that can make everyday activities feel challenging, and it's completely valid to seek support for it. This isn't something you simply have to endure; there are practical strategies to help manage the sensations. Just as [Pregnancy Back Pain](/conditions/back-pain-pregnancy) can impact daily comfort, SPD is another area where gentle, informed approaches can make a difference.

## What the evidence says helps
When it comes to managing SPD, evidence-based approaches focus on supporting your body and minimizing strain. Pelvic floor physiotherapy, specifically with a therapist trained in pregnancy and postpartum care, is widely considered the first-line treatment. These specialists can offer individualized assessments and exercises to help stabilize the pelvis.

Many people also find significant symptomatic relief from using pelvic support belts. These inexpensive tools can provide external compression and support to the pelvic joints, which can be a welcome comfort. Another widely recommended option is water therapy, such as pool walking or hydrotherapy. The buoyancy of water reduces the load on your joints, offering a gentle way to move and find relief.

To minimize discomfort, it's often helpful to adjust how you move. This means avoiding asymmetric movements where possible. For example, try to keep your knees together when getting in and out of a car, or climb stairs slowly, one step at a time. Sleeping with a pillow between your knees can also help keep your pelvis in a more aligned and comfortable position. While general exercise interventions have mixed evidence, individualized physiotherapy is often more effective than generic exercise programs. It's about finding what specifically supports your body.

It's reassuring to know that SPD typically resolves over the weeks to months following birth. However, for some, the discomfort might persist, and continued physiotherapy support can be very beneficial. This period of change can bring various physical sensations, and just as you might experience [Pregnancy Headaches](/conditions/pregnancy-headaches) or [Pregnancy Dizziness and Lightheadedness](/conditions/dizziness-pregnancy) at different points, understanding the specific nature of SPD helps in navigating it with more calm and confidence.

## Working with your care team
Navigating pelvic pain during pregnancy involves collaborating closely with your care team. Your obstetrician or midwife is your best resource for an initial assessment and to rule out any other concerns. They can also provide referrals to a specialized pelvic floor physiotherapist, which is a key step in developing a personalized management plan. As a trained full spectrum doula, I often see how empowering it is for clients to understand their options and feel heard. You get to decide what feels right for your body and your comfort. Open communication with your provider ensures you receive the most appropriate, evidence-based support for your unique situation. Remember, this guidance is for practical wellness and education, not medical care, and your provider is your best resource for your specific situation.