Damage or violation of the joint structure of the pubic bones of the pelvis is a fairly common problem among women. That is why many are interested in the question of why symphysitis occurs, what it is and what symptoms are accompanied. What treatment methods are used in modern medicine?
Symphysitis - what is it?
The pelvic bones are represented by the iliac, pubic and ischial bones fused together . The back of the pelvis is connected with each other and with the sacrum using the sacroiliac joints, and in front, between the pubic bones there is a pubic symphysis. Most often, the distance between the edges of the bones in the joint does not exceed 10 mm.
During pregnancy, under the influence of specific hormones, the connective tissues of the pubic symphysis swell, loosen - the woman’s body prepares for childbirth. As a rule, after the birth of a baby, the structure of the pelvis is restored. But, unfortunately, this is not always the case.
It is immediately worth noting that symphysitis indicates either a violation or a change in the normal structure of the pubic joint. This can be uncharacteristic loosening, stretching, tearing, diverging or softening of tissues.
Symphysitis: what is it and why does it arise?
Unfortunately, the reasons for such a violation cannot always be established. However, scientists note that in this case there is some genetic tendency. In addition, a similar problem is most often diagnosed in women who, even before pregnancy, had some problems with the structure of the musculoskeletal system, in particular, improper location of the pelvic bones, some abnormal anatomical features, etc.
Risk factors include hormonal disruptions, in particular, the level of production of the hormone relaxin. This substance is responsible for softening tissues before childbirth, but increasing its level or sensitivity to it of the body can lead to serious complications. In some cases, the cause of symphysitis is a calcium deficiency in the body. It also matters the course of pregnancy, position, size and activity of the fetus.
Symphysitis: what are these and what are its symptoms?
In fact, a violation of the normal structure of the pubic joint is accompanied by very clear symptoms. In particular, pain occurs in the pubic region, which can spread to the coccyx, thigh, and perineum. As a rule, even a slight pressure on the pubis is accompanied by a feeling of discomfort. Some women complain of sharp shooting pains during a change in body position. In more serious cases, discomfort prevents the expectant mother from engaging in physical activity - sometimes even basic walking becomes impossible due to painful attacks. These are the main signs of symphysitis.
If you are concerned about these symptoms, you should immediately seek medical help, since pelvic pain during pregnancy can indicate a lot of pathologies - it is impossible to diagnose this condition yourself.
Symphysitis: what is it and how to treat it?
It is immediately worth noting that such a disease most often does not pose any threat to the child. But with such a pathology, natural childbirth is far from always possible, since a strong stretching of the frontal joint can lead to its complete rupture - in this case, the doctor makes a decision on how the birth process will be carried out.
The specialist will also tell you how to treat symphysitis. Unfortunately, there are no medications that can relieve pain. Patients must be prescribed vitamins, and sometimes calcium supplements. Physical stress, especially heavy lifting, should be avoided. It has been proven that a special pelvic brace helps relieve pain. It will be useful to massage the lower back, special therapeutic exercises (only on the recommendation of a doctor). Most often, symphysitis goes away on its own several weeks (months) after birth.