Symphysitis (symphysiopathy)

Symphysitis is a problem that many pregnant women perceive as a normal discomfort. But if the pain in the pelvic area intensifies, it becomes difficult to walk or even get out of bed, you can’t ignore it. Symphysitis can not only interfere with everyday life, but also affect the course of pregnancy and childbirth. In this article, we will tell you why it is important to recognize the symptoms in time, consult a doctor, and how to deal with this problem.

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What is symphysitis (symphysiopathy)?

Symphysitis, or symphysiopathy, is a condition associated with inflammation or pathological changes in the pubic symphysis (the junction of the pubic bones). This joint consists of cartilage and ligaments that provide stability and a small range of motion for the pelvis.

Most often, symphysitis develops during pregnancy or after childbirth. The cause is the effect of the hormone relaxin, which softens the ligaments and joints, preparing the woman's body for the birth of the baby. As a result, the joint becomes less stable, which can cause pain, inflammation, and impaired movement.

It is important to understand that symphysitis is not the norm, but a pathological condition.

What is symphysitis (symphysiopathy)?

Stages of development of symphysiopathy

Only a doctor can determine the degree of symphysiopathy and select the appropriate treatment. Contact the K+31 clinic - we will help you solve the problem.

Symphysiopathy is classified according to the severity of changes in the pubic symphysis.

  • Mild Characterized by a slight divergence of the pubic symphysis bones (up to 5 mm). Patients may experience discomfort or mild pain during prolonged walking or physical activity. Symptoms often resolve on their own after rest
  • Moderate The divergence reaches 6–10 mm. The pain becomes more pronounced, especially when changing body position, walking, or climbing stairs. Difficulty in daily activities may occur
  • Severe The divergence exceeds 10 mm. Patients experience severe pain even at rest. Walking may be impossible without support. Swelling and inflammation in the pubic area are common. This condition requires immediate medical attention

Treatment of symphysitis during pregnancy

Treatment of symphysitis during pregnancy is aimed at alleviating symptoms, supporting the woman's body and preventing complications. In our clinic K+31 (Moscow), specialists take into account all aspects of the health of the mother and child when treating symphysitis. Sign up for a consultation to choose the right treatment method. Check prices and details on the website or by phone.

Supportive measures

Reducing the load on the pelvis is one of the main methods of combating symphysitis. For this, doctors recommend wearing a prenatal bandage. It helps to redistribute body weight, reducing pressure on the pubic symphysis. Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs also reduces discomfort. Physical activity is limited: you cannot lift weights, stand or walk for a long time. All movements should be smooth to avoid injury and increased pain.

Drug therapy

Pain from symphysitis is controlled by drugs that are safe for pregnancy. Most often, paracetamol is prescribed in minimally effective doses. Calcium and vitamin D can be prescribed to strengthen the bones. If the pain intensifies, the doctor may recommend ointments with a mild analgesic effect that are safe for the expectant mother. However, self-medication is excluded, any drugs are used only after consultation.

Physiotherapy

Special exercises help strengthen the muscles and improve pelvic mobility. For example, exercising on a fitball, gentle bends and stretches relieve tension. The doctor may also recommend a light massage of the lumbar region to improve blood circulation. Physiotherapy, such as magnetic therapy, is used only under strict supervision to avoid harm.

Diet and nutrition

Maintaining bone health is directly related to nutrition. The diet of a pregnant woman should include dairy products, fish, greens and nuts - they are rich in calcium and vitamins. Products that "wash out" calcium, such as carbonated drinks, are excluded. Weight control is also important, since excess body weight increases the load on the pelvis.

Childbirth

The method of delivery is chosen individually. With a slight divergence of the pubic symphysis, natural childbirth is possible. However, if the divergence is significant or there is a risk of complications, doctors recommend a cesarean section. This prevents injuries and allows you to avoid further problems with the pelvis after childbirth.

General information

Symphysitis Symptoms

Symphysitis during pregnancy manifests itself with a number of characteristic symptoms:

  • Pain in the pubic area. The most common symptom. The pain intensifies when walking, changing body position or raising the legs
  • Pain radiates. The sensations can spread to the lower abdomen, lower back, inner thighs
  • Clicking and cracking. During movement, sounds can be heard in the pelvic area due to a violation of the stability of the joint
  • Limited movement. Walking, climbing stairs or turning in bed become difficult
  • Swelling and redness. In some cases, a slight swelling may be observed in the pubic area

Important! Symptoms intensify in the second half of pregnancy, as the load on the pelvis increases. If the pain becomes severe or interferes with daily activities, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Causes of symphysitis

The main factors that cause symphysitis:

  1. Hormonal changes. During pregnancy, relaxin is produced, a hormone that softens the ligaments and cartilage to prepare the pelvis for the birth of the baby. Excessive exposure to relaxin can lead to instability of the pubic symphysis
  2. Increased load on the pelvis. The growing weight of the fetus puts pressure on the pelvic bones, which increases the risk of overload and damage to the ligaments
  3. Lack of calcium and vitamin D. A deficiency of these substances weakens bone tissue and ligaments, which makes the joints more vulnerable
  4. Multiple pregnancies or a large fetus. These factors increase the load on the pelvis and increase the likelihood of developing symphysitis
  5. Pelvic injuries. Previous trauma or surgery to the pelvic area may increase the risk of joint instability
  6. Genetic predisposition. Some women have softer ligaments and cartilage to begin with

Poor posture and prolonged stress on the pelvis can aggravate the condition, especially if you are predisposed to symphysitis.

Diagnostics of symphysitis

To make an accurate diagnosis, the doctor uses a set of methods:

  • Collecting the patient's anamnesis and complaints. The doctor specifies the nature of the pain (for example, whether it intensifies when walking or turning), the presence of previous pelvic injuries, complications in previous pregnancies
  • Examination and palpation of the pubic symphysis. The doctor examines the pelvic area, checks for swelling, pain when pressing on the pubic symphysis
  • Ultrasound of the pelvic area. Ultrasound allows you to assess the condition of the tissues, measure the width of the symphysis (normally no more than 10 mm)
  • X-ray of the pelvis. Prescribed after childbirth, if there is a suspicion of injury or significant divergence of the pubic bones. Allows you to see the degree of displacement
  • MRI. Used for accurate diagnosis in complex cases. Helps to assess the condition of soft tissues, the degree of inflammation and the degree of symphysis divergence
  • General blood and urine analysis. Prescribed to exclude inflammatory processes that may accompany symphysitis

If symphysitis is not treated, it can lead to complications.

Prevention of symphysiopathy during pregnancy

Advice from doctors at the K+31 clinic:

  1. Wear a support bandage. A prenatal bandage helps reduce the load on the pelvic bones by supporting the abdomen and distributing the weight evenly. It is best to use it from the moment the abdomen becomes noticeable, especially if there is a predisposition to symphysiopathy
  2. Control your physical activity. Try to avoid standing or walking for a long time. If you need to sit for a long time, change your position every 30-40 minutes. Lifting heavy objects is strictly contraindicated. It is better to use smooth movements when getting up from a bed or chair
  3. Watch your posture. Keep your back straight, do not arch or lean too far forward or backward. When walking, try not to lift your leg too high to avoid overstraining your pelvic bones
  4. Strengthen your muscles. Light pelvic floor exercises will help improve stability and reduce the load on the pubic symphysis. It is important to avoid abdominal exercises and deep squats. Consult your doctor before starting exercises
  5. Sleep in the correct position. It is best to sleep on your side, using a pregnancy pillow. It reduces pressure on the pelvis and helps maintain the correct position of the spine
  6. Avoid high-heeled shoes. Wear comfortable shoes with a low, stable heel or without one. This reduces the load on the pelvis and helps maintain balance
  7. Control your weight. Extra pounds increase the load on the pelvis. Monitor your diet, avoiding overeating. The optimal weight gain during pregnancy is determined by your doctor
  8. Reduce the load on the pelvic joints. Avoid activities that require wide leg spreading, such as sitting down on a chair or vigorous dancing. Such movements can provoke pain and increase the load on the pubic symphysis.

Important! Include dairy products, fish, greens, and nuts in your diet. If your diet does not contain enough calcium, your doctor may recommend additional medications that are safe for pregnancy.

Answers to popular questions

Symphysitis raises many questions, especially for expectant mothers who are faced with this problem for the first time. We have collected the most important and relevant of them so that you can get accurate and understandable answers.

Why does symphysitis occur in pregnant women?

Symphysitis develops due to increased stress on the pelvic bones during pregnancy. The body's preparation for childbirth is accompanied by the production of the hormone relaxin, which softens the ligaments and cartilage. In some women, due to excess relaxin or anatomical features, a pathological divergence of the pubic symphysis occurs, which causes pain and discomfort.

What complications can occur with symphysitis?

Symphysitis can lead to complications during childbirth, especially if the separation of the pubic bones exceeds the normal range. In severe cases, it may limit mobility, require a cesarean section, or necessitate a prolonged recovery period after childbirth.

Can symphysitis be hereditary?

Yes, if your mother or grandmother had symphysitis, your risk of developing it is higher. To prevent this, discuss preventive measures with your doctor in advance.

Will symphysitis go away after childbirth?

Most often, yes. After childbirth, hormones stabilize, and symptoms disappear. However, if the pubic bones have significantly separated, additional treatment may be needed.

Will symphysitis affect childbirth?

It might. If the bones have significantly separated, your doctor may recommend a cesarean section. The decision is made individually, considering your condition.

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