Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD)

So I am thinking it is possible I might have this.

Although it appears to be a firmly fixed circle of bone, the pelvis is actually four separate bones jointed together - the sacrum and coccyx at the back and at the sides the two hip bones which curve around to meet at the front. These are joined at the front by the symphysis pubis.

"In pregnancy the hormone relaxin is released to soften the joints in preparation for the birth of your baby, but in around one in 35 women the hormone causes the ligaments to soften and stretch too much and become painful," says Ann Johnson, superintendent physiotherapist in women's health at Leeds General Infirmary.
It is normal for there to be a gap of 4-5mm between the two pubic points at the symphysis pubis joint and during any pregnancy this widens by another 2-3mm. If this gap widens more than this pain may occur and in some cases a severe form of the condition called diastasis symphysis pubis is diagnosed.
The job of the symphysis pubis joint is to hold the pelvis steady when we're using our legs, and if the ligaments have softened or stretched too much it won't work properly and strain is put on the other pelvic joints, causing pain.
The main symptoms are pain in your pubic area, groin, the inside of your thighs and sometimes in your lower back and hips. "The pain is worse when you walk or move and climbing stairs is especially painful. Getting in and out of the car or turning in bed is also painful," says Ann Johnson. You might hear a clicking sound when you walk and feel as though the bones are grinding together. Opening your legs is difficult and painful.


All I know is I am in constant pain, and sometimes it is just excruciating. I dont know how much longer I can take this.

2 comments:

babies said...

Just about 4 or 5 weeks, thats all we need baby girl, This is what we all prayed for and wished for, for so many yrs. hang in there, you can do it! And dont be afraid to ask for help, we are here for you! Just let us know what you need! lyls! xoxoxo!

The Workmans said...

That's crazy! That sounds just like everything I felt when I was preggers with Zoey! I know what you are going through and it sucks, but it will be worth it in the end!! I promise! Hang in there, you will have that sweet baby in your arms in no time at all!! :) Yay!!