What causes pubic pain in pregnant women?

Sep 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, pubic pain during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes, forward shift of body center of gravity, pubic symphysis separation, pubic osteitis, lumbar disc herniation, and other factors. During pregnancy, increased levels of progesterone in the woman's body help soften ligaments and joints, allowing the pelvis to expand more easily during childbirth. This ligamentous relaxation can affect the pubic symphysis.

In general, pubic pain during pregnancy may be caused by hormonal changes during pregnancy, forward shift of body center of gravity, pubic symphysis diastasis, pubic osteitis (osteitis pubis), lumbar disc herniation, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, increased levels of progesterone in the female body help soften ligaments and joints, allowing the pelvis to expand more easily during childbirth. This ligament laxity can affect the pubic symphysis, causing pregnant women to experience pain. Appropriate rest and physical activity should be maintained, avoiding prolonged standing or sitting.

2. Forward Shift of Body Center of Gravity

As pregnancy progresses, the enlarging uterus shifts the body's center of gravity forward. To maintain balance, biomechanical changes occur in the spine and pelvis, increasing stress on the pubic symphysis and leading to pain. Engaging in appropriate low-intensity exercise is recommended, while lifting heavy objects or sudden twisting movements should be avoided.

3. Pubic Symphysis Diastasis

Due to uterine enlargement and hormonal changes during pregnancy, separation of the pubic symphysis may occur, resulting in pain. This condition is often accompanied by limited mobility and difficulty walking. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as etoricoxib tablets, meloxicam tablets, or diclofenac sodium sustained-release tablets may be used for treatment.

4. Osteitis Pubis (Pubic Osteitis)

Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and increased local pressure may lead to an aseptic inflammation around the pubic bone, causing pain. Symptoms may also include limping and tenderness at muscle attachment sites. Medications such as celecoxib capsules, loxoprofen sodium tablets, or ibuprofen tablets should be used according to medical advice to alleviate symptoms.

5. Lumbar Disc Herniation

The lumbar intervertebral discs bear increased pressure during pregnancy. Particularly after prolonged sitting or standing, this may lead to lumbar disc herniation with nerve compression, causing pain in the pubic region. Other common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the lower limbs. Treatment should be conducted under medical supervision using medications such as acetaminophen tablets, meloxicam capsules, or chlorzoxazone tablets.

It is recommended to develop regular lifestyle habits, avoid prolonged mental stress and excessive fatigue, maintain a proper balance between work and rest, and keep a positive and optimistic mood.

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