Pelvic girdle pain

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain arising from one or more joints of the pelvic girdle, most commonly the pubic symphysis and sacroiliac joints. It is frequently associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period, and may range from mild discomfort to severe functional limitation. PGP can cause pain, instability, and reduced mobility, particularly during weight-bearing activities. The condition has been recognized in medical literature since antiquity, having been mentioned by Hippocrates and later described in detail by Snelling in the nineteenth century.

The affection appears to consist of relaxation of the pelvic articulations, becoming apparent suddenly after parturition or gradually during pregnancy and permitting a degree of mobility of the pelvic bones which effectively hinders locomotion and gives rise to the most peculiar and alarming sensations.

Definition and terminology

PGP refers to pain arising from one or more of the joints that make up the pelvic girdle, including the pubic symphysis and the sacroiliac joints. It is most commonly associated with pregnancy and the postpartum period, but may also occur outside of pregnancy. It is considered distinct from lumbar spine, and related low back pain, although the two conditions may coexist. The pain is typically localized to the anterior or posterior pelvis and is often aggravated by weight bearing activities or movements involving transfer of load through the pelvis. In contemporary medical literature, the term pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PRPGP) is commonly used to describe symptoms occurring during pregnancy, while similar symptoms persisting after delivery are referred to as postpartum pelvic girdle pain.