• A condition which affects up to half of all women and birthing people during and/or after pregnancy
• Women experience pain and stiffness in one or more pelvic joints affecting all aspects of women’s lives, and may lead to associated mental health impacts 
• Asymmetry of movement, joint irritation and pain when walking, climbing stairs and turning over in bed
• In some cases, long-term pain and dysfunction after giving birth which can persist for months or years without treatment
• In around 7% of women affected by PGP, long-term pain and dysfunction, requiring crutches or a wheelchair to mobilise, can persist for over two years without treatment

• PGP can be treated with hands-on individualised treatment, including manual therapy
• By referring women for assessment and treatment of the pelvic joints and soft tissues by a manual therapist (physiotherapist, osteopath or chiropractor – NHS or private practitioner), their pain and function should improve after each treatment session
• Discuss pain relief options. Paracetamol is safe in pregnancy but often not effective, and stronger pain medication may be more beneficial. 
• Be aware of the psychological impact of PGP, as with other forms of severe pain and disability, and take appropriate steps to address this and provide support. 

• Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to a full resolution or reduction in symptoms during pregnancy
• It is safe to treat at any stage during or after pregnancy, even if there is very severe pain

• Ensure that the team is aware of PGP and its effects, and it is documented in the maternity notes
• Avoid labour and birth positions which strain pelvic joints, e.g. the lithotomy position
• Consider labour and birth in water and use upright positions, on all fours or lying on one side 

• After birth, offer en-suite facilities and physical support with self-care and caring for the baby if in hospital
• Offer pain relief, mental health support and refer the woman for early review by the manual therapist

We offer support and information to women and healthcare professionals to raise awareness of pregnancy-related PGP.

We provide information about PGP to midwives, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, health visitors and other professionals involved in the treatment of pregnant women. Please contact us if you would like us to run an information session in your unit or clinic.

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