PGP stands for pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain, which is a collection of uncomfortable symptoms caused by a stiffness of the pelvic joints or the joints moving unevenly at either the back or front of the pelvis. PGP is a common condition that affects around 1 in 5 pregnant women. It is not harmful to the baby, but it can be painful and make it hard to get around. Symptoms of PGP include pain over the pubic bone at the front in the center, roughly level with your hips, across one or both sides of your lower back, in the area between your vagina and anus (perineum), and spreading to your thighs. Some women may also experience difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed.

Getting diagnosed as early as possible can help keep pain to a minimum and avoid long-term discomfort. Women with PGP may be referred to a physiotherapy service that specializes in obstetric pelvic joint problems. Physiotherapy aims to relieve or ease pain, improve muscle function, and improve your pelvic joint position and stability. Other treatments for PGP may include:

• Support belts
• Using crutches
• Regular pain relief medication

It is important to seek help if you think you are suffering from PGP, as it is a treatable condition that you can get support to manage. While PGP in pregnancy is common, it is not normal.