Gourt > Health > Reproductive Health > Pregnancy and Birth > Complications > Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction
The pubic symphysis (or Symphysis pubis) is the midline cartilaginous joint uniting the superior rami of the left and right pubic bones (pubis).
It is located anterior to the urinary bladder and superior to the external genitalia for females it is above the vulva and for males it is above the penis. In males, the suspensory ligament of the penis attaches to the pubic symphysis. In females, the pubic symphysis is intimately close to the clitoris.
During pregnancy in the human, hormones such as relaxin soften this cartilage allowing the pelvic bones to be more flexible for delivery. The symphysis pubis may actually separate during the birthing process in some women: this is painful but rare, with reported rates of occurrence ranging from one in 600 to one in 3400 births.
More on [ Pubic symphysis ]
Association of Radical Midwives: My Pelvis and I - A midwife explains her experience of the condition, which worsened postnatally.
Meta Description: [ Diastasis Pubic Symphysis and Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction can cause pain and disability in pregnancy and afterwards. A midwife writes about her own experiences, and ways of managing the complication ]
Baby Centre: Pelvic Pain (SPD) - Causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, including self help tips.
Babyworld: Pelvic Joint Pain (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction) - Symptoms and treatment options, including a personal account.
For Patients: Advice For Women Who Have Symphysis Pubis - Physiotherapy leaflet, including symptoms, and ways to decrease the discomfort.
National Childbirth Trust: Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction - Basic information, including symptoms.
Pelvic Pain (Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction) - Detailed information, including causes, symptoms, possible treatments, and tips to cope with pain. Also offers advice on planning for birth, and various personal accounts.
Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction - Explains the condition and provides advice on how to manage it.
The Pelvic Partnership - Information about the condition, including symptoms and treatment, plus the aims of the organisation.
UK Midwifery Archives: Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction - Extracts from an email group on various issues, such as managing pain, and positions for birth.
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