How to Determine if a Mother Has Pubic Symphysis Separation?

Pain in the Pubic Symphysis Area

This is usually persistent, with pain, tenderness, and swelling in the pubic region, which may radiate to the legs, hips, and back. When a doctor presses on the pubic symphysis during an examination, the mother will feel significant pain.

Difficulty Turning Over, Lifting Legs, or Even Walking

When pubic symphysis separation occurs, some mothers may avoid lifting their legs or walking to prevent worsening pain, especially when climbing stairs, turning over, lifting objects, or even coughing, as increased abdominal pressure can intensify the pain. In reality, the function of their lower body muscles and joints is unaffected. In such cases, further examination by a doctor is necessary to rule out other causes of pain and mobility issues.
Some severe cases of pubic symphysis separation may render mothers unable to stand, turn over, or walk normally.

What Should Be Done for Pubic Symphysis Separation in Mothers?

Mild pubic symphysis separation is a physiological change in late pregnancy and can recover naturally after childbirth. However, severe separation or joint dislocation requires treatment.

Hospital Examination

Diagnosis of pubic symphysis separation typically relies on X-ray imaging of the pelvis, which clearly shows the separation of the two pubic bones and measures the distance between them. If the mother is hesitant about X-rays, diagnosis can often be made based on clinical symptoms.

Treatment Options

1. Physiological pubic symphysis separation does not require treatment and can heal gradually. 2. If the separation is significant and causes pain or mobility issues, a pelvic correction belt may be used (such braces should be used under the guidance of an orthopedic or rehabilitation doctor). 3. For cases with large separation distances or joint dislocation, surgery may be necessary, such as plate fixation for joint realignment. It is emphasized that the treatment plan should be determined by a doctor.

Home Care

• Bed Rest Recommended for Severe Pain

Mothers with significant pain are advised to rest in a side-lying position during treatment, but absolute bed rest is not recommended.

• Avoid Excessive Lower Limb Activity

Mothers with mild symptoms can carry out daily activities but should avoid excessive lower limb movements, such as frequent squatting, climbing stairs, or lifting legs too high. Prolonged static postures, like standing or sitting for long periods or holding a baby for extended times, should also be avoided. Walking aids or crutches may be used if necessary.

Weight significantly impacts the pelvis, so lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous labor should be avoided for at least one year postpartum.

• Weight Control

New mothers diagnosed with pubic symphysis separation must control their weight postpartum. Overeating during the confinement period, which leads to rapid weight gain, can increase the burden on the pubic symphysis and even cause chronic joint inflammation, leading to more pain.