Abstract
Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) has been recognized as an Obstetric condition since the time of Hippocrates. In spite of this long history, many medical staff remain unaware of the condition. Women continue to suffer from symphysis pubis pain with considerable reduction in quality of life during pregnancy. In recent years there has been an upsurge in the reported incidence of SPD partly due to gross previous under recognition. The increase in incidence has also been attributed to the sudden discovery of the SPD phenomenon by some women who have no symptoms but are generally fed up with being pregnant. The allegation has been that these women use SPD as a reason to request for induction of labour.
Highlights
The symphysis pubis is a non-synovial cartilaginous joint
Women continue to suffer from symphysis pubis pain with considerable reduction in quality of life during pregnancy
In recent years there has been an upsurge in the reported incidence of Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) partly due to gross previous under recognition
Summary
The symphysis pubis is a non-synovial cartilaginous joint. The stability of this joint is integral to the function of the pelvis. SPD occurs when the symphysis pubis is unable to effectively perform its role in pelvic stabilization. The wide variation in the incidence of SPD quoted in the literature is due in part to the various names given to this condition. SPD has been referred to as pelvic girdle relaxation, peripartum pelvic pain and Symphysis diastases by some authors. There is an urgent need for standardisation of terminology in reference to pubic dysfunction so that appropriate management guidelines can be made
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