Pubic Symphysis Pain

The pubic symphysis is commonly referred to as the pubic bone; in fact, there are two pubic bones which connect through a disc of cartilage at midline. As estrogen and progesterone levels increase throughout pregnancy, they stimulate ligaments in the body to relax and joint to have more freedom to move in preparation for labour and delivery.  

This leads to pain in the pubic symphysis because typically this joint does not have much freedom to move and due to hormone changes and biomechanical changes during pregnancy, this joint is under greater strain and moves more which causes inflammation. The intensity of pubic symphysis pain can be managed by ensuring the joints of the pelvis and lower extremities are aligned and muscles are balanced along with supports to reduce inflammation, however, recurrence is common throughout pregnancy.