Women’s Health Physiotherapy and Pelvic Girdle Pain: What You Need to Know

ByCarlTorres

https://advantagehealth.net.au/womens-health-physiotherapy/pelvic-girdle-pain/

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) can be a frustrating and often misunderstood condition affecting many women—especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period. The good news? Women’s health physiotherapy offers targeted, effective treatment that can help you move more freely, manage pain, and feel empowered in your body again.

In this article, we’ll explore what pelvic girdle pain is, what causes it, and how women’s health physiotherapy can make a real difference.

What Is Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP)?

Pelvic girdle pain refers to discomfort or pain in the pelvic region, typically felt at the front (pubic symphysis), sides, or back (sacroiliac joints) of the pelvis. It can range from a dull ache to sharp pain and may affect activities such as:

  • Walking
  • Climbing stairs
  • Standing on one leg (e.g., putting on pants)
  • Turning in bed
  • Lifting or carrying objects

PGP is most common during pregnancy—affecting up to 1 in 5 pregnant women—but it can also occur postpartum or in women with pelvic instability, prior trauma, or certain musculoskeletal conditions.

What Causes Pelvic Girdle Pain?

There’s no single cause of PGP, but common contributing factors include:

  • Hormonal changes during pregnancy (especially relaxin) that increase joint laxity
  • Changes in posture and body mechanics due to a growing baby bump
  • Muscle imbalances or weakness in the core, pelvic floor, or hips
  • Previous back or pelvic injuries
  • Pelvic asymmetry or poor alignment

It’s important to know that PGP is not “just part of pregnancy” and you don’t have to suffer through it without help.

How Can Women’s Health Physiotherapy Help?

Women’s health physiotherapists are specially trained to assess and treat conditions affecting the pelvic region. If you’re experiencing PGP, a physiotherapist can provide a personalized treatment plan that addresses the root cause of your symptoms, rather than just managing the pain.

Key Treatment Approaches Include:

🧠 Education and Body Awareness

Understanding how your posture, movements, and daily habits affect your pelvic alignment can empower you to reduce strain on your pelvis.

🧘 Exercise and Strengthening

Targeted exercises can improve the strength and stability of your core, glutes, pelvic floor, and deep abdominal muscles. These muscles play a major role in supporting the pelvis and reducing pain.

👐 Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques such as joint mobilization or soft tissue release may be used to restore balance in the pelvis and relieve muscle tension.

🛠️ Support Devices

Your physio may recommend a pelvic support belt, posture aids, or taping techniques to offload pressure and provide stability.

📅 Activity Modifications

Simple changes to how you move—like how you get out of bed or stand from sitting—can make a big difference in managing pain day-to-day.

When to See a Women’s Health Physio

If you’re pregnant or postpartum and struggling with pelvic pain, don’t wait until it becomes unbearable. Early intervention can prevent your symptoms from worsening and help you stay active and mobile.

Also seek help if:

  • Pain interferes with walking or daily tasks
  • You notice clicking, locking, or grinding in your pelvic joints
  • You feel unstable when moving
  • The pain persists after childbirth

Final Thoughts

Pelvic girdle pain can take a toll on your physical comfort, emotional well-being, and quality of life. But you don’t have to deal with it alone. With the right support from a women’s health physiotherapist, many women experience significant relief and regain confidence in their movement.

Every woman deserves a healthy, pain-free pregnancy and recovery. If you’re struggling with PGP, help is available—and it works.