Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) is a condition that occurs when the joint at the front of your pelvis—the pubic symphysis—becomes overly mobile or misaligned. This joint normally helps stabilize your pelvis, but during pregnancy, hormonal and postural changes can make it too flexible.
The result? Pelvic pain during pregnancy, difficulty walking, and pain while climbing stairs or turning in bed.
At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, we help expectant parents manage symphysis pubis dysfunction through gentle, evidence-based exercises and manual therapy. Our goal is to reduce pain, improve alignment, and keep you moving comfortably throughout your pregnancy.
The pubic symphysis joint connects the two halves of your pelvis. It’s held together by ligaments and cartilage that allow slight movement. During pregnancy, your body produces the hormone relaxin, which softens these ligaments to prepare for childbirth.
However, sometimes this causes instability in the pelvic girdle, leading to pubic bone pain or pain in the front of the pelvis. Understanding how this joint works helps explain why so many women experience pelvic pain in the third trimester.
Several natural changes contribute to pubic symphysis dysfunction during pregnancy:
These changes can lead to sharp pelvic pain in the third trimester or feelings of instability when walking or standing on one leg.
The exact cause of SPD during pregnancy varies, but common factors include:
When the pelvic joint becomes unstable, the surrounding muscles have to work harder to maintain balance, often causing pain at the front of the pelvic girdle or pain near the pubic bone.
Typical symptoms of symphysis pubis dysfunction include:
If you’re wondering what does symphysis pubis dysfunction feel like, these are the most common signs.
People often describe the pain as a sharp, stabbing, or burning sensation in the pubic bone. It may feel like your pelvis is “separating” when you move your legs apart. Even simple tasks like getting dressed, stepping into a car, or climbing stairs can become difficult.
The good news? Physical therapy for symphysis pubis dysfunction can reduce pain and help you move comfortably again.
SPD typically doesn’t cause complications for your baby or delivery, but it can make movement more painful. Your healthcare provider and physical therapist may recommend modified birthing positions to protect your pelvis and ease discomfort.
At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, we work closely with your medical team to ensure your birth plan accommodates your comfort and safety.
Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is an umbrella term that includes pain in any of the pelvic joints. Symphysis pubis dysfunction refers specifically to the pubic symphysis joint. While they share symptoms, SPD is usually localized to the front of the pelvis.
Understanding the difference helps ensure you get the right treatment and exercises for your specific condition.
Diagnosis involves:
At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, our clinicians use gentle movement testing and palpation to assess pelvic alignment and identify areas of instability—no imaging required in most cases.
Physical therapy is one of the most effective, drug-free treatments for SPD. Our specialists at IMPACT use a combination of:
Many patients experience relief after just a few sessions of physical therapy for pelvic pain during pregnancy.
After consulting your physical therapist or OB-GYN, try these gentle movements:
These exercises help improve stability and decrease pubic symphysis pain when performed under guidance.
Avoid any movements that make symptoms worse, including:
Avoiding these can prevent worsening pain or further strain on your pelvis.
A pelvic support belt can reduce strain on the pubic symphysis by providing gentle compression. It helps stabilize your pelvis during movement and reduces pain while walking or standing.
Your physical therapist can recommend the best style and show you how to wear it properly for maximum relief.
Most people notice improvement shortly after delivery, once hormones normalize and the pelvis stabilizes. For some, SPD symptoms fade within a few weeks, while others benefit from continued postpartum physical therapy to restore strength and alignment.
Early treatment helps speed up recovery and prevent chronic pain.
Yes. SPD can return during subsequent pregnancies or after resuming high-impact exercise too soon. Continuing pelvic floor strengthening and core stability training can help prevent recurrence and support long-term pelvic health.
At IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, our experienced team treats pelvic pain during pregnancy, symphysis pubis dysfunction, and postpartum pelvic conditions using evidence-based care.
You can visit us at multiple convenient Illinois locations, including:
It’s mainly caused by hormonal changes—especially relaxin—that loosen the pelvic joints, combined with increased pressure from your growing baby.
Absolutely. Physical therapy strengthens your core and pelvic muscles, improves posture, and helps realign your pelvis to reduce pain.
Yes, with modifications. Low-impact, gentle exercises prescribed by a physical therapist are safe and effective.
For most people, yes. Symptoms usually resolve within a few months after delivery, especially with continued pelvic floor therapy.
It can make movement painful but rarely affects delivery itself. Discuss your condition with your healthcare team to plan comfortable birthing positions.
If you’re struggling with pelvic pain during pregnancy, know that symphysis pubis dysfunction is treatable. With professional guidance and individualized care from IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery, you can find relief, improve movement, and enjoy your pregnancy with confidence.
Reach out to your nearest IMPACT Physical Therapy & Sports Recovery location today or request a consultation to start your recovery journey.
