Pelvic Girdle Pain in Pregnancy
- Kristen Zumberger DC, FIAMA
- Jun 22
- 3 min read
Low back and pelvic pain during pregnancy affects many women, but it does not have to be a normal part of your experience. Understanding why pelvic girdle pain happens and how to manage it safely can help you stay active and comfortable throughout pregnancy.
At Performance Health in Cincinnati, we offer gentle, effective treatments designed specifically for pregnant patients. Our goal is to reduce pain and improve movement so you can enjoy this special time with less discomfort.

Why Pelvic Girdle Pain Happens During Pregnancy
Pelvic girdle pain is pain caused by instability or irritation in the joints and ligaments of the pelvis during pregnancy.
One of the biggest reasons this happens is because of a hormone called Relaxin. During pregnancy, Relaxin helps prepare the body for childbirth by loosening ligaments and increasing pelvic mobility.
While this is completely normal, the increased looseness in the ligaments can reduce stability around the pelvic joints. As your body weight and posture change throughout pregnancy, certain areas of the pelvis can become overloaded or irritated.
This often leads to pain, difficulty with movement, and feelings of instability during everyday activities.
Symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain
Pelvic girdle pain can feel different for each woman, but common symptoms include:
Pain in the front or back of the pelvis
Discomfort that worsens with walking, rolling in bed, or changing positions
Tightness or fatigue in the pelvic region
Clicking or shifting sensations
Difficulty with movements like climbing stairs, turning in bed, or standing on one leg
If you notice these symptoms, it’s important to address them early to prevent worsening pain.
How Pelvic Girdle Pain Affects Daily Life
Pain in the pelvic area can make everyday activities more challenging:
Sleeping comfortably becomes difficult due to pain when changing positions
Routine tasks like walking, bending, or standing may cause discomfort
Reduced ability to stay active can affect overall health and mood
Increased fatigue from pain and disrupted sleep
Managing pelvic girdle pain helps maintain your quality of life and supports a healthier pregnancy.
Safe Treatment Options for Pelvic Girdle Pain in Cincinnati
At Performance Health, we focus on treatments that are safe for both mother and baby. Our approach includes:
Gentle adjustments help improve joint motion and reduce stress on the pelvis and spine. These techniques are adapted to accommodate your changing body safely.
Massage relieves muscle tension around the pelvis and lower back, improving circulation and reducing discomfort.
Manual Therapy
Targeted manual therapy reduces restrictions in muscles and soft tissues surrounding the pelvic joints, helping restore normal movement.
Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) exercises strengthen your core and improve posture in a controlled, safe way. This supports the pelvis and reduces pain.
Feel Better Throughout Your Pregnancy
Pelvic girdle pain does not have to limit your pregnancy experience. With the right care, you can reduce pain, improve movement, and stay active. If you live in Cincinnati and are struggling with pregnancy-related pelvic or low back pain, consider professional treatment options that focus on your safety and comfort.
Reach out to a Performance Health, a Healthcare provider experienced in pregnancy care to discuss your symptoms and explore treatment plans tailored to your needs. Taking action early can make a significant difference in how you feel during pregnancy and beyond.



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