Understanding Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but it can bring some surprising aches and pains, especially in the hips and pelvis. Up to 1 in 5 women experience Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP) during pregnancy, most often in the second or third trimester. The good news? With the right support, it can be managed effectively so you can keep moving with confidence.
What Causes Pelvic Girdle Pain During Pregnancy?
PGP happens when the joints of your pelvis move unevenly or become irritated due to hormonal and postural changes in pregnancy.
The hormone relaxin softens ligaments to prepare your body for birth but it can also make joints less stable. Combined with your growing baby, changing posture, and shifting centre of gravity, the pelvis can begin to feel sore, tight, or unstable.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes affecting ligament support
- Uneven weight distribution and postural strain
- Weakness in pelvic floor or core muscles
- Previous back or hip injury
Recognising the Symptoms and Warning Signs
Every pregnancy is different, but you may notice:
- Pain in the pubic bone, groin, hips or lower back
- Discomfort when walking, rolling in bed or climbing stairs
- Clicking or grinding in the pelvic area
- Pain when standing on one leg or getting out of a car
If these sound familiar, a women’s health physiotherapist can help identify the cause and guide you toward relief.
How Physiotherapy Can Help Pelvic Girdle Pain
A tailored physiotherapy program is one of the safest and most effective ways to manage pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy.
At Assist Allied Health Capalaba, your session includes gentle, hands-on treatment and practical strategies to support your daily movement.
Your physio may recommend:
- Manual therapy to reduce joint irritation and muscle tension
- Support belts or braces to stabilise the pelvis
- Pelvic floor and core exercises to build strength safely
- Posture and movement tips for standing, sleeping and lifting
- Safe exercise guidance for each trimester
Identifying Your Triggers
PGP often flares with certain daily habits. Your physio will help you spot patterns such as:
- Standing on one leg to dress
- Sitting with knees crossed or hips twisted
- Pushing shopping trolleys or lifting heavy items
- Walking long distances without breaks
Learning these triggers means you can adjust small movements and prevent pain before it starts.
When to Seek Help
If pain limits your movement, interrupts sleep, or affects work or caring for family, don’t wait. Early assessment makes treatment easier and helps prevent the pain from worsening later in pregnancy or after birth.
You don’t have to “just put up with it.”
Safe, evidence-based physiotherapy can help you feel supported and confident through each trimester.
Take the Next Step
Our women’s health physiotherapists in Capalaba are here to help you move comfortably and prepare for birth with confidence.
