Congratulations on entering motherhood! The journey of pregnancy has come to an end, and you're now embarking on a new phase filled with love and challenges. One such challenge that you might face is pelvic pain after pregnancy. It's not uncommon for new mothers to experience this, but it's important to understand the reasons behind the pain and know how to manage it effectively. Keep reading to learn more about postpartum pelvic pain, its causes, and the available treatment solutions. Don't forget to share this guide with others who might find it helpful and explore more content on Pelvic Floor Therapy.
Why Does My Pelvis Hurt After Pregnancy Table of Contents
Transform Your Pelvic Floor in Just 4 Weeks: The Pelvic Floor Bible
Transform Your Pelvic Floor in Just 4 Weeks: The Pelvic Floor Bible
Postpartum pelvic pain can be attributed to various factors, such as labor, childbirth, and hormonal changes. Here, we will discuss some of the common causes of post-pregnancy pelvis pain:
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
During pregnancy, your pelvic floor muscles support your growing baby and uterus. The increased pressure and weight can cause these muscles to weaken over time, leading to pelvic floor dysfunction. Childbirth can further strain these muscles, making them lose their elasticity and strength. This can cause discomfort and pelvic pain after pregnancy.
Diastasis Recti
Pregnancy can cause the abdominal muscles to separate, a condition known as diastasis recti. This separation weakens the core muscles, leading to instability in the pelvic region and lower back pain. If left untreated, diastasis recti can contribute to ongoing pelvic pain.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes during pregnancy and after giving birth play a significant role in postpartum pelvic pain. Relaxin, a hormone that helps prepare your body for childbirth, increases the elasticity of ligaments and soft tissues. This can cause your pelvic joints to become less stable, resulting in discomfort or pain.
Pelvic Girdle Pain
Pelvic girdle pain is experienced in the front and back of the pelvis and affects 1 in 5 pregnant women. It is caused by improper alignment or stiffness of the pelvic joints. The pain can linger on after pregnancy, causing discomfort while sitting, standing, or walking.
Infections
Infections in the uterus or pelvic region after childbirth can lead to pelvic pain. Endometritis, an infection of the uterine lining, is one example of a postpartum infection that can cause discomfort.
Example
Consider Sarah, a new mother, who started experiencing pelvic pain two months after giving birth. She noticed her pain would increase while lifting her baby or when getting up from a seated position. Sarah initially thought this was a normal part of the postpartum recovery process. However, after consulting with her healthcare provider, she learned that the pelvic pain was a result of a weak pelvic floor and diastasis recti. She was advised to seek pelvic floor therapy and core rehabilitation from a women’s health physiotherapist.
Experiencing pelvic pain after pregnancy can leave new mothers feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. But understanding the underlying causes can provide guidance for managing the pain effectively. It's essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you experience ongoing or severe pelvic pain post-pregnancy. Treatments, such as pelvic floor therapy, pain medications, or alternative therapies, can help you regain strength and alleviate discomfort.
If you found this article informative and enlightening, don't forget to share it with others who might benefit from this guide. Also, don't hesitate to explore more content on Pelvic Floor Therapy to support your postpartum journey and overall well-being.
