What Is the Pubic Symphysis, and Why Does It Cause Pain During Pregnancy?

Question

I’m currently in my third trimester of pregnancy, and for the past few weeks, I’ve been experiencing sharp pain in my pelvic region, especially when I walk, stand for too long, roll over in bed, or even try to put on pants. My doctor mentioned that this could be due to something called pubic symphysis dysfunction (PSD), but I still don’t fully understand what that means or why it happens during pregnancy.

From what I’ve read, the pubic symphysis is a joint in the front of the pelvis that normally has a small gap. However, during pregnancy, the body releases a hormone called relaxin, which loosens the ligaments to prepare for childbirth. For some women, this loosening causes excessive movement in the pubic symphysis, leading to pain, instability, and discomfort.

The pain I’m feeling is intense, especially when I take long steps, climb stairs, or try to shift positions in bed. Sometimes it feels like a burning sensation or sharp stabbing pain right in the center of my pelvis. Is this normal for pregnancy, or should I be concerned? Does pubic symphysis pain go away on its own after birth, or is it something that requires long-term treatment?

I’ve also noticed that the pain gets worse toward the end of the day, especially after standing for long periods. Could poor posture or weight gain be making it worse? Are there any specific pregnancy-friendly exercises or stretches that can help relieve pressure on the pubic symphysis? I’ve heard that pelvic tilts, Kegels, and prenatal yoga might help, but I’m not sure if they’re safe to do at this stage.

Since I’m planning for a natural birth, I’m worried about how pubic symphysis pain will affect labor and delivery. Will it make pushing more painful? Are there certain birthing positions that are better for women with pubic symphysis dysfunction? I’d love to hear from other moms who have dealt with this—how did you handle the pain during labor?

I’m also interested in natural remedies for pain relief. Has anyone tried using Ayurvedic oils, herbal treatments, or warm compresses for pubic symphysis pain? I’ve read that Mahanarayan oil, castor oil packs, and gentle abdominal massage can help with pelvic pain—has anyone found these effective?

For those who have gone through pubic symphysis pain, did it completely go away after delivery, or did you have to do physical therapy to recover? How long did it take for the pubic symphysis joint to return to normal?

Any advice from other moms who have experienced this would be really helpful!

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Pubic symphysis dysfunction (PSD) during pregnancy occurs due to hormonal changes, especially relaxin, which loosens pelvic ligaments, causing instability and pain. It is common in the third trimester and usually resolves after childbirth, though some may need postpartum care. Excess weight, poor posture, and prolonged standing can worsen symptoms. Ayurveda recommends gentle oil massages with Mahanarayan oil or Dhanwantharam taila to strengthen pelvic muscles and reduce inflammation. Warm compresses and castor oil packs provide relief. Safe prenatal yoga, pelvic tilts, and kegels can help stabilize the pelvis, but avoid wide-leg movements. During labor, side-lying or hands-and-knees positions reduce pressure on the pubic symphysis. If pain persists postpartum, mild therapies like Abhyanga (oil massage) and yoga can aid recovery.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Pubic symphysis dysfunction (PSD), also called symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), is a common pregnancy-related condition caused by the loosening of the pelvic ligaments due to the hormone relaxin. This increased mobility in the pubic symphysis joint can lead to sharp pain, instability, and discomfort in the pelvic region, especially with activities like walking, rolling over in bed, or standing on one leg. While it’s normal for some level of discomfort to occur in late pregnancy, severe pain can make daily activities challenging. The good news is that for most women, the pain significantly improves after delivery as hormone levels return to normal, though in some cases, recovery may take weeks or months.

Certain factors like poor posture, weight gain, and prolonged standing can worsen PSD symptoms. Gentle pregnancy-safe exercises such as pelvic tilts, Kegels, and prenatal yoga may help strengthen supporting muscles and relieve pressure on the joint. Avoiding wide-legged movements, using a pregnancy support belt, and keeping knees together when rolling in bed can also reduce strain. Some women find relief with warm compresses, prenatal chiropractic care, or physical therapy techniques like myofascial release. Ayurvedic remedies such as Mahanarayan oil massage, castor oil packs, and herbal formulations that reduce inflammation may provide additional relief.

When it comes to labor and delivery, PSD can make certain birthing positions, like deep squatting or lying on the back with legs wide apart, more painful. Side-lying, hands-and-knees, or upright positions may be more comfortable. Many women with PSD give birth naturally without complications, though some require additional postpartum rehabilitation, including physical therapy. If symptoms persist after birth, targeted pelvic exercises and core strengthening can help stabilize the pelvis over time. Every woman’s recovery is different, but most find that with proper care and support, their symptoms gradually resolve.

What Is the Pubic Symphysis, and Why Does It Cause Pain During Pregnancy? - #15556

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