SPD Question

[Jendon]

I was told I had SPD yesterday and that the pains im getting could get worse. I was told pretty much to keep my legs together (9 months too late!) as much as possible and that during labour they will measure how far I can open my legs and that I wont be able to open my legs more than that during the birth. Now having your legs open during labour is pretty important - and I always thought, the wider the better LOL! Especially if you need forceps or ventouse. So my question is, if you cant open your legs wider than a certain amount, will you automatically go for a C section??

Think I need to do some research on this!!

 

[kelsey]

Hi, I found this which may be of some help

I've been told I've got SPD. How will it affect my labour?




Alison Bourne answers:
With appropriate advice and treatment, it is rare for SPD (symphysis pubis dysfunction) to cause any significant problems during labour. The 'traditional' birth position of lying on your back with your legs apart is usually very painful. However, there are many other positions which are more comfortable. Kneeling in an upright position or on your hands and knees helps to widen the pelvis without placing undue stress on the pubic symphysis. Sitting in an upright position makes it easier to separate your legs further and some women find they can squat comfortably if they keep their back straight.

If you have to have an assisted delivery (ventouse or forceps) or have to have your legs placed in stirrups, moving both legs together and rotating your hips outwards as they are bent up (rather than just separating them) is more comfortable.

 

[smurf]

Hi hun sorry to hear you have SPD you certainly have my sympathy I am also a sufferer and sometime the pain is excruitating,

It is possible to give birth vaginally with SPD you just have to be a bit more careful and creative. I have spoken to a lot of people with regards to labour positions and have been advised to avoid delivering on my back if at all possible - I've written in my birth plan that I will need my knees measured to ensure my legs aren't pulled too wide apart as this can make recovery much slower and more painful. I have said I would like to try is either standing leaning over the bed or kneeling.

I have also stated that I would prefer a mobile epidural rather than the full works as this way I will still have some feeling in my legs to avoid them being pulled too wide apart without my noticing.

 

[Clydesdaleclopper]

My sympathies are with you - I'm a fellow sufferer. There is lots of information available on the pelvic partnership website http://www.pelvicpartnership.org.uk

My osteopath recommended 2 birthing positions that would be OK - on all fours and lying on my left hand side. You need to be careful about having an epidural as this can mean that you do yourself more damage by opening your legs too wide when you can't feel the effects. Water births are a good idea as you can be mobile with your weight supported. Feel free to PM me if you want any more info.