Symptoms
Common signs:
- Pelvic pain in pregnancy
- Back pain, leg cramps, or heartburn during pregnancy
- Pregnant or recently gave birth
Less common
- Clicking in the pelvis
Look up a symptom: Pregnant or recently gave birth
When to get medical care
Call 911Heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, a seizure, or fluid that's green or brown with fewer baby movements: call 911 or go to labor and delivery.
Get care todayPain with contractions, bleeding, or fever.
See a doctor soonPain that limits walking.
Causes
Loose pelvic joints.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
Who is more likely to get it
- Past pelvic pain
Diagnosis
Diagnosis by symptoms.
Treatment
Move smartly.
Self-care
- Keep knees together getting out of bed or a car
- Take smaller steps
- Use a pelvic support belt
- Sit to get dressed
Medicines
Medicines that may help:
| Medicine | Helps with | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Acetaminophen | Pain | Ask first in pregnancy. |
OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.
Physical therapy helps.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.
Outlook
Improves after birth.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pelvic girdle pain in pregnancy (SPD)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.