Living with this condition can be frustrating and exhausting. Simple tasks like turning in bed, climbing stairs, getting dressed, or carrying a child may trigger pain and limit independence. Pelvic girdle pain, which includes pubic symphysis pain, affects about 1 in 5 pregnant people, and many feel worried about how long symptoms will last. The good news is that most people improve with the right support, education, and active care, especially in the months after birth1,2.
What are the symptoms of pubic symphysis dysfunction?
- Pain at the front center of the pelvis, often sharp or burning
- Pain that spreads to the groin, inner thighs, hips, or lower abdomen
- Pain when walking, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg
- Trouble turning in bed or getting in and out of chairs or cars
- Clicking, grinding, or feeling unstable in the pelvis
- Sleep disruption due to pain
- Difficulty caring for a baby or managing daily tasks
Did you know?
Most pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain improves without surgery, and many people feel better within months after delivery. Supportive exercise and education are shown to reduce pain and improve daily function for many individuals1,4.
What causes pubic symphysis dysfunction?
Pubic symphysis dysfunction happens when the joints of the pelvis struggle to handle everyday loads during or after pregnancy. As your body changes, muscles may not support the pelvis as well as usual, which can increase strain at the front pelvic joint. This is not caused by one hormone alone, and it is not your fault.
Common factors that can increase risk or trigger flare-ups include:
- Previous low back or pelvic pain
- Pregnancy-related changes in movement and muscle control
- Higher body weight or physically demanding daily tasks
- Stress, anxiety, or low mood
- Multiple pregnancies or a prior history of pelvic girdle (pelvic girdle ( strong bony ring connecting the spine to the lower limbs) pain
Research shows that changes in how the pelvis is supported and controlled play a larger role than hormones alone1,3.
When should I see a doctor?
Most pelvic girdle pain can be managed safely with conservative care.
Seek a doctor right away if you notice:
- Severe or sudden pelvic pain after trauma or a fall
- Inability to stand or walk
- Fever, redness, or signs of infection
- Numbness, weakness, or bladder or bowel changes
- Visible pelvic deformity or intense pain after delivery
If symptoms persist or worsen, a clinician can help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.
How is pubic symphysis dysfunction treated?
Most people recover with active, non-surgical care. Treatment focuses on reducing strain on the pelvis while gradually rebuilding strength and confidence in movement.
Typical options include:
- Education and activity guidance to reduce painful movements and improve daily habits
- Exercise-based rehabilitation that improves pelvic, hip, and core support
- Support belts or shorts to improve comfort and stability during daily activities
- Pain relief medications, such as acetaminophen, when appropriate and guided by a clinician
- Injections or surgery, only in rare or severe cases when conservative care fails
Many people notice meaningful improvement within 6 to 12 weeks of guided exercise and education, especially after childbirth1,4.
Sword's approach
Sword Health helps people manage pain and movement issues with expert-guided AI care you can use from home. Our model combines clinical support with modern technology, designed to work around your life.
Sword makes recovery easier and more accessible. You get high-quality care at home, guided by clinicians and supported by smart technology.
- Care that adapts to your progress in real time
- Licensed experts guiding every step
- Simple, non-invasive, evidence-based programs
- Proven results for pain relief, movement, and satisfaction
Clinical insight
