Understanding Pelvic Girdle Pain: What It Is and How We Can Help

Understanding Pelvic Girdle Pain: What It Is and How We Can Help

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common and often misunderstood condition that affects many women, particularly during pregnancy. If you’re experiencing discomfort in your hips, lower back, or pelvis, you’re not alone—and the good news is, there’s support available to help you move with confidence again.

What Is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain refers to discomfort in the joints and surrounding structures of the pelvis. It can occur on one or both sides and may radiate to the hips, thighs, or lower back. While often linked to pregnancy, it can also affect women postpartum or outside of pregnancy.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain around the front of the pelvis (pubic symphysis)

• Discomfort in the lower back, hips, or buttocks

• Pain when walking, climbing stairs, turning in bed, or standing on one leg

• Clicking or grinding sensations in the pelvic joints

Why Does Pelvic Girdle Pain Happen?

Previously, PGP was largely attributed to hormonal changes, but current research suggests a more nuanced explanation. While hormonal shifts like increased relaxin do play a role, not every pregnant person experiences PGP, indicating that hormones alone are not the cause.

Today, we understand that PGP is more accurately linked to increased sensitivity around the pelvis, rather than reduced stability. This heightened sensitivity is influenced by a range of biopsychosocial factors, such as:

• Either excessive or insufficient motor activation of the lumbopelvic muscles

  • Excessive activation involves gripping, guarding, or co-contraction of the muscles

  • Insufficient activation occurs when key muscles like the glutes aren’t engaging effectively

• Inflammation driven by factors such as poor sleep, stress, or inadequate nutrition

• Postural adaptations due to hormonal changes and increased load on the pelvis

What Can Help Reduce the Risk?

Regular movement during pregnancy makes a difference. Research shows that those who exercise three times per week at a moderate to high intensity are less likely to develop PGP.

What Happens After Birth?

With the right support during pregnancy, most PGP symptoms will resolve postpartum. Individualised assessment and early intervention are key. Around 7% of women may continue to experience pain after birth, and about 2% may develop chronic PGP. This is why identifying the root cause—whether excessive activation, insufficient motor control, or central and psychosocial factors—is crucial to guiding treatment.

How a Women’s Health Physio Can Help

At All for One, our Women’s Health Physiotherapists are trained to assess and treat PGP using a compassionate, evidence-informed approach. We take the time to uncover what’s contributing to your symptoms and design a treatment plan that aligns with your needs, stage of pregnancy, and lifestyle.

Support may include:

• Gentle hands-on therapy to reduce pain and ease movement

• Tailored exercise programs to support muscle coordination and function

• Movement and posture education to reduce day-to-day strain

• Pelvic support belts or taping where helpful

• Clinical or Prenatal Pilates to rebuild strength in a safe, supported space

Our goal is always to help you feel stronger, more comfortable, and in control of your journey—whether you’re preparing for birth or simply wanting to move through your day with greater ease.

When Should I See a Physio?

Don’t wait for symptoms to escalate. Early assessment can make a real difference in reducing discomfort and improving outcomes. If you’re noticing pain or discomfort in your pelvis, hips, or lower back—especially during movement or by the end of the day—reach out.

You can book directly with one of our Women’s Health Physios for a personalised assessment and plan.

You deserve to feel supported, strong and confident—through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

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