Pregnancy Symphysis Dysfunction (PSD) is a condition that can occur during pregnancy when the symphysis pubis, which is the joint at the front of your pelvis, becomes unstable. This can cause pain and discomfort in your lower back and hips. A knee pillow may be able to provide some support and relief from the symptoms of PSD. Keep reading to learn more about PSD and how a knee pillow may help you cope with some of the pain.
What is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD)
Fact: One in fifty pregnant women will suffer from symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), or pelvic girdle pain.
SPD is a condition that many pregnant women experience, and it’s also called PGP or Pelvic Girdle Pain. The cause of this pain mostly occurs in the hips back area due to changes during pregnancy on your body shape and size .
A condition such as this is actually caused by Relaxin, a hormone released in order to loosen your pelvic ligaments so that your baby has enough room to move through your pelvis during delivery. The loosening of the ligament can result in extreme pain in your pubic area, hips, shoulders, back, thighs, and even buttocks (sacroiliac joints). In fact, some physical activities can actually worsen SPD, so in severe cases women become nearly immobile. There’s not much that doctors can do for women who suffer from this condition, but fortunately there are self-care strategies you could use to make your life just a little bit easier. For example: physiotherapy and rest should always remain an important part of managing the pain.
Tips for Coping With Spd During Pregnancy
Accept Help
If you suffer from SPD in pregnancy, one of the best things you can do to ease your symptoms is to take a break and rest. Let others deal with all the preparations around the new baby’s arrival. Allow others to help with chores such as cleaning or cooking. Even though it can be difficult to let go, a good rest (both mental and physical) can help you relax, recover, and get ready for the birth of your baby.
Invest In Knee Pregnancy Pillow
If you suffer from chronic pain and are looking for a way to relieve it, then a knee pillow is your answer! Placing this pillow between your legs when sleeping at night can make all the difference in how comfortable or uncomfortable your sleeping position feels. You will be able get more restful nights with less discomfort because the knee pillow can take pressure off the affected bones to relieve discomfort. The pillow contour promotes hip and leg alignment when sleeping on your side. Such a pillow can also be used when sitting up-right to keep legs separated and hips aligned.
Pay Attention to Your Posture
When you’re pregnant with SPD, it’s important to stay active but avoid any physical activity that requires spreading your legs or putting pressure on them. When you stand, try to balance your legs equally and keep your knees together as much as possible, especially if you are hopping out of bed, getting out of your car, getting up, etc.
The less pressure you put on your pelvic area, the less pain you’re going to experience due to SPD. Keep in mind – when you are doing simple tasks such as getting dressed or putting on your shoes, you should sit down. In the case that your baby bump prevents you from putting on your shoes, don’t be afraid to ask for assistance or use a device designed to make it easier.
Recommended Pregnancy Knee Pillow
Contour Legacy Leg & Knee Foam Support Pillow
This pillow is a best seller for a good reason! Counter Legacy is an orthopedic pillow that can relieve sciatic nerve pain from a tilting hip or knee injury as well lower backache during pregnancy. The Counter Legacy pillow is a great option for side sleepers and it will not flatten over time. The pillow memory foam provides firm support, while also being comfortable enough and not too stiff.
Luna Orthopedic Knee Pregnancy Pillow
Another high rated pillow for those suffering from back and hip pain, this one’s made out of premium memory foam that will keep its original shape over time, without being too stiff. With an easy-to clean cover made with breathable material it could be your ideal solution to your discomfort!
Final Thoughts
I hope these tips will help you to manage your pain, and give you some ideas on how to deal with it. Remember that a good quality knee pillow can provide the support your body needs to help reduce pain and to make sleeping more comfortable.
Mama, make your mental and physical health a priority and ask for help whenever you need it!
