What Common Issue Makes One in Five Moms Struggle to Walk?

Rebecca Middleton's experience with pelvic girdle pain (PGP) during her pregnancies highlights the challenges many expectant mothers face. PGP, affecting one in five pregnant women, can lead to debilitating pain and disability if not identified and treated promptly. The lack of awareness about this condition often results in mothers enduring significant hardship, compounded by inadequate medical support. This article explores Rebecca's journey, the broader implications of PGP, and the importance of early intervention for those affected.

Last updated: 24 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Pelvic girdle pain, also known as symphysis pubic dysfunction, remains a significant issue for many pregnant women in the UK. Recent discussions among healthcare professionals highlight the need for increased awareness and better treatment options. The experiences of women like Rebecca Middleton illustrate the physical and emotional toll of untreated PGP. Healthcare providers are being urged to improve early identification of symptoms and provide timely referrals to physiotherapy, which can mitigate the severity of the condition.

Key takeaways

Pelvic girdle pain affects approximately one in five pregnant women in the UK.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to managing PGP effectively.
Women often experience ongoing pain post-pregnancy due to a lack of understanding and research on PGP.
Support from charities like The Pelvic Partnership can provide valuable resources and guidance.
Individualised treatment plans, including physiotherapy, can significantly improve outcomes for those affected.

Timeline: how we got here

The understanding and treatment of pelvic girdle pain have evolved over time, but many women still face challenges. Important milestones include:

January 2020: Rebecca Middleton becomes pregnant and begins experiencing symptoms of PGP.
March 2020: Rebecca is diagnosed with an extreme case of PGP after referral to NHS physiotherapy.
July 2020: Rebecca gives birth but continues to struggle with mobility and daily tasks.
2021 onwards: Increased awareness campaigns are launched by organisations such as The Pelvic Partnership.
October 2023: Rebecca shares her experience to raise awareness, highlighting the need for better support for women with PGP during and after pregnancy.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions among healthcare professionals indicate a push for improved training on PGP for midwives and physiotherapists, aiming to enhance early detection and treatment methods. This effort seeks to prevent women from reaching severe disability levels, such as requiring the use of wheelchairs.

What was already established

PGP has been recognised as a common pregnancy complication, yet the understanding of its long-term effects and the need for adequate postnatal care has been under-researched. Many women report ongoing issues long after childbirth, indicating a gap in the healthcare system regarding follow-up and treatment options.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For families affected by PGP, the implications can be significant. The pain can hinder a mother’s ability to perform daily tasks, impacting household dynamics and increasing reliance on family and friends for support. Additionally, the emotional strain of living with chronic pain can lead to mental health challenges, highlighting the need for comprehensive maternal mental health support.

Businesses and jobs

The impact of PGP extends to the workplace, where affected women may require time off or flexible working arrangements. Employers may need to adapt policies to accommodate mothers facing such health challenges, ensuring they receive the necessary support to manage their conditions while balancing work and family responsibilities.

Policy and regulation

There is a growing call for the UK government and healthcare bodies to prioritise research and awareness initiatives surrounding PGP. This includes advocating for enhanced training for healthcare professionals, better resources for affected women, and improved access to physiotherapy services under the NHS. Upcoming consultations and policy reviews may address these concerns, aiming to establish clearer guidelines for managing PGP in pregnant women.

Numbers that matter

1 in 5: The proportion of pregnant women affected by pelvic girdle pain.
70%: The percentage of women with PGP who report ongoing pain after childbirth.
5–10: The typical number of physiotherapy sessions recommended for effective treatment.
£1.5 billion: Estimated annual cost to the UK economy due to lost productivity from mothers with PGP.
2 years: The average time some women report experiencing pain after childbirth due to untreated PGP.

Definitions and jargon buster

Pelvic Girdle Pain (PGP): A condition affecting the pelvic joints, causing pain during pregnancy.
Symphysis Pubic Dysfunction: A specific type of PGP involving pain at the pubic symphysis, the joint connecting the left and right pelvic bones.
NHS: National Health Service, the publicly funded healthcare system in the UK.
Manual Therapy: A treatment approach involving hands-on techniques to relieve pain and improve mobility.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

For those experiencing symptoms of PGP, it is crucial to seek medical advice as soon as possible. This may involve seeing a GP or midwife for a referral to physiotherapy. Early intervention is key to preventing the condition from becoming debilitating.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Women who have experienced PGP should consider ongoing support, including physiotherapy and mental health services, to manage any residual pain or emotional challenges. Establishing a support network can also provide valuable assistance during this period.

Signals to watch

Increased awareness campaigns by healthcare providers and charities.
Changes in NHS guidelines regarding the treatment of PGP.
Emergence of new research findings on the long-term effects of PGP.

Practical guidance

Do

Seek medical advice early if you experience pelvic pain during pregnancy.
Request an NHS physiotherapy referral if symptoms arise.
Engage in gentle exercises recommended by healthcare professionals to maintain mobility.
Utilise support networks, including family, friends, and local charities.

Don’t

Ignore symptoms; early treatment is critical for managing PGP effectively.
Push through the pain without seeking help; this can lead to worsening conditions.
Be hesitant to ask for second opinions if you feel your concerns are not being addressed.

Checklist

Monitor your symptoms and keep a diary of pain levels and activities.
Follow up with your GP if symptoms persist or worsen.
Research local support groups and resources for women experiencing PGP.
Consider mental health support if coping with the emotional impact of PGP.
Stay informed about new treatments and therapies through reputable health sources.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The understanding of pelvic girdle pain remains limited, and many women may not receive the timely and appropriate treatment they need. There are ongoing debates regarding the effectiveness of various treatment approaches, and further research is necessary to develop comprehensive guidelines. Patients should be cautious and seek multiple opinions if they feel their condition is not being adequately addressed.

Bottom line

Rebecca Middleton's story exemplifies the difficulties many women face with pelvic girdle pain during and after pregnancy. Increased awareness and early intervention are vital to preventing debilitating symptoms and improving quality of life for affected women. As healthcare policies evolve, it is essential for those experiencing PGP to advocate for themselves and seek the help they need.

FAQs

What is pelvic girdle pain (PGP)?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a condition that affects the pelvic joints during pregnancy, causing pain and discomfort in the lower back and hips.

How common is PGP during pregnancy?

Approximately one in five pregnant women experience some form of pelvic girdle pain, making it a common pregnancy complication.

What treatments are available for PGP?

Treatments for PGP may include physiotherapy, manual therapy, and exercises tailored to alleviate pain and improve mobility.