Prenatal Exercises and Birthing Positions for Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction
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A condition called Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) occurs when the ligaments that keep your pelvis aligned during pregnancy become too relaxed (due to the hormone relaxin) and causes excessive movement of the pubis symphysis. This can make walking or sitting difficult, and sometimes extremely painful, affecting approximately 1 of 4 pregnant women.
It is recommended that women with Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction give birth in an upright position with knees slightly apart. Another option is the all-fours position, keeping the knees close together. A waterbirth may be preferable as water allows buoyancy that can support the joints. And soaking in a warm tub is divine during labor!
Pelvic Floor Squeezes, Stability Exercises, Inner Thigh Stretches, Pelvic Tilts, Back and Side Stretches
Symphysis Pubis Disorder is not harmful, but it is painful. There are exercises to relieve SPD. If any exercise seems to cause you more pain, stop immediately. If your pain lasts or seems to get worse, talk to your obstetrician. For info about rehabilitation, prevention, and reoccurrence management of SPD in subsequent pregnancies, read this article which includes stability exercises.
Watch the below video for how to give birth more comfortably with SPD. Additionally, strengthening the pelvic floor muscles will help to stabilize the spine, support the pelvic organs, and prevent incontinence.
