SPD

[FEP]

Hi.

Wondered if you can offer any advice a friend has just been diagnosed with SPD (Symphysis Pubic Disfunction) at 29 weeks pregnant. Has anyone else suffered with this and if so do you have any advice.

Thanks

FEP

she should ask for a referral to a specialist physio, who can help, and also a large bandage or something tight tied round her hips, under her bump can make it a bit more comfortable...this is a good website too pelvic partnership

Yep - get her to see a physio and ask for either a big tubigrip or a Fembrace (maternity support belt). The physio will also be able to supply crutches if she needs them later on. If she is unfortunate enough to get to the point of needed a wheelchair the British Red Cross offer an amazing service - they helped DH & I so much and were so friendly.

In the meantime tell her to be very careful getting in and out of cars/bath etc and BE A LADY, meaning, keep her knees together when getting in and out of the car etc. DH bought me a long bolster type pillow from Mothercare and it was great as it supported my bump and also went between my knees, thus keeping my legs and pelvis straight (I still sleep with it sometime now). If I can be of anymore help please just ask.

I was completely crippled by SPD during pregnancy and found an osteopath - called Hector Wells - who treated me and I walked out of his office!!! He does something different to other osteopaths but I don't honestly understand it. He's based in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Perhaps you could contact him?

When DD was a few months old I hobbled in to my chiropractor on crutches and walked out carrying them. Am not saying I didn't use them again, but he certainly helped.