Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Physio Bronte

Understanding Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy

Pelvic pain during pregnancy is common, but it’s not something you have to put up with. It can have several causes, and getting the right diagnosis early makes a big difference in treating the symptoms. 

Common Causes of Pelvic Pain Include:

Round Ligament Pain

As your belly grows, the ligaments stretch, which can sometimes cause sharp or aching pain on one or both sides of the lower tummy or groin.

Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction

Relaxed ligaments can make the pelvic joints unstable, leading to pain or clicking around the front of the pelvis around the pubic bone and groin.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

“Practice” contractions can tighten the lower abdomen and feel uncomfortable but usually don’t cause any pain.

Miscarriage / Ectopic Pregnancy

Pelvic pain with bleeding or spotting. Also needs immediate medical attention.

Pelvic Girdle Pain

Pain around the pelvis, lower back, hips or groin. The pain often worsens with unilateral movement such as standing on one leg. This condition is what this blog will be focussing on.

Urinary Tract Infection

Causes burning when urinating, pelvic pain and frequent urges to urinate. If you suspect you have a UTI, please see your GP promptly.

Preterm Labour

Pelvic pain with contractions, back pain or fluid loss before 37 weeks. This needs immediate medical attention.

So now we will focus on the most common MSK condition above; Pelvic Girdle Pain. If you are unsure about any of the other points above, please contact your GP or our Women’s Health Specialist Jess Teeger. 

Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PrPGP) 

Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain is one of the most common and manageable causes of pelvic pain. We see it very often in our musculoskeletal clinic here in Bronte. Physiotherapy can properly diagnose you, identify key triggers of your pain, provide education in what will help and give you safe exercises and strategies to stay comfortable throughout pregnancy.

Pregnancy-Related Pelvic Girdle Pain (PrPGP) 

  • What Is Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)?

    Pelvic girdle pain can present as discomfort felt around the front of the pelvis, lower back or upper glutes. It may feel sharp, dull or like a deep ache. The pain is often exacerbated with unilateral lower limb tasks, such as walking, climbing stairs, rolling in bed or standing on one leg. 

    It is estimated that 33% - 50% of pregnant women report PGP before 20 weeks, and 60% - 70 % report PGP by late pregnancy (Clinton et al., 2017). Most commonly, PGP presents between 14 and 30 weeks, with its intensity and severity worsening as the weeks progress.

  • Why Does Pelvic Girdle Pain Happen?

    While no single cause has been proven, contributing factors include:

    - Hormonal alterations in pregnancy - notably oestrogen 

    - These hormone changes cause altered pelvic joint mobility. This altered movements of the pelvic joints, particularly asymmetrical laxity (one side being more lax than the other)

    - Muscular imbalance around the hips, back and pelvic floor

    - Previous low back or pelvic injuries

    - Postural changes from a growing bump (APA, WHTA)

How We Assess Pelvic Girdle Pain at Limitless Physio Bronte

At your first appointment, Jess Teeger, our Women’s Health Physiotherapist, will:

  • Take a full history of your pregnancy, past history and current symptoms

  • Assess your lumbar spine and pelvic movement, motor control and muscle strength

  • Check your pelvic floor if appropriate

  • Provide a clear diagnosis and tailored treatment plan

  • Fit you with supports such as a pelvic belt, SRC shorts or kinesio tape if needed

  • Likely recommend our Mums, Bubs & Bumps Pilates classes which are physio-led and pregnancy-safe

  • Work closely with your midwife or obstetrician

Safe Exercises for Pelvic Girdle Pain

  • Pelvic Floor Awareness and Breathing

    Focus on gentle contraction and release.

  • Deep Core Activation with Heel Slides

    Draw the belly button to the spine as you slide one heel out and back.

  • Glute Activation

    Small leg lifts on all fours or side-lying.

  • Supported Bridges

    Lift hips in a small range while squeezing a towel or ball between the knees.

  • Side-lying Clams

    Use a light resistance band to strengthen and stabilise the pelvis.

See our Full Guide For Best Exercises For Pelvic Girdle Pain

Everyday Tips to Reduce Pelvic Pain

  • Wear low-heeled, supportive shoes.

  • Temporarily avoid standing on one leg or standing for long periods.

  • Don’t sit with your legs crossed or twist through a wide stance e.g. when getting out of the car.

  • Sleep with a small pillow between your knees for optimal pelvic alignment.

  • When to Seek Urgent Care

    Call your midwife or obstetrician straight away if you have:

    Heavy vaginal bleeding

    Fever or signs of infection

    Severe or constant pain that doesn’t ease with rest

    Any warning signs your healthcare provider has mentioned

  • What Results to Expect

    Many women feel improvement within the first few sessions.

    1–2 sessions: Less pain and easier movement

    2–6 weeks: Stronger, more stable pelvis and improved daily comfort

    Compression garments or pelvic belts can help quickly, but long-term relief comes from strengthening. Correct strengthening also works preventatively, to help ensure you don’t experience PGP again.

  • Why Choose Limitless Physio Bronte

    All pregnancy Pilates classes are run by experienced physiotherapists.

    Programs are tailored to your pregnancy stage and previous injuries.

    We communicate directly with your midwife or obstetrician.

    Convenient Bronte location supporting women across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

Book a Pregnancy Physio Appointment in Bronte today

 📞 Call us on (02) 8970 9166 or book online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • It’s common, but not something you have to tolerate. It normally gets worse throughout pregnancy, so it’s good to get on top of early. Physiotherapy can relieve pain and improve your comfort.

  • It is estimated that 33% - 50% of pregnant women report PGP before 20 weeks, and 60% - 70 % report PGP by late pregnancy (Clinton et al., 2017). Most commonly, PGP presents between 14 and 30 weeks, with its intensity and severity worsening as the weeks progress.

  • Not normally. But exercise during pregnancy can make labour easier and recovery smoother.

  • Yes. Clinical Pilates with a physio focuses on control, stability and deep core strength is one of the main treatments prescribed for reducing pelvic pain.

  • Most women recover well after delivery, though some may have mild discomfort postpartum. If pain continues, physiotherapy can help to strengthen the muscles around the pelvis.

  • No referral is needed. If you’d like us to coordinate care with your GP or obstetrician, we’re happy to.

Author:
Shannon Nutt
Physiotherapist, Limitless Physio Bronte

Heal. Move. Feel Strong.

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