Pelvic pain after childbirth: course, self-care and when to get help

Pelvic girdle pain is often called pelvic girdle 'loosening', but NHI points out that the word is misleading, since nothing comes loose. Hormones in pregnancy make the pelvic joints more mobile, and in some women the movement triggers pain [1]. The Danish medical handbook describes the condition as pain in the pelvic ring, at the pubic symphysis and/or the sacroiliac joints, arising during pregnancy or childbirth [2].

In more than 15 percent of all pregnant women in Norway the symptoms cause problems in daily life [1]. This article is about pelvic girdle pain that continues after the birth. Pelvic floor problems are not covered here.

In the great majority the symptoms disappear after the birth [1]. The proportion with pelvic girdle pain falls to about 7 percent during the first three months [1][2]. The Danish patient handbook states that the pain disappears in more than 9 out of 10 within three to six months, and that any symptoms after the birth are usually milder than during pregnancy [3].

Some develop long-lasting symptoms. In a Danish study, 5 percent had symptoms two months after the birth, 4 percent after six months and 2 percent after twelve months [2]. Women with severe pain during pregnancy have a higher risk of long-lasting symptoms [1]. Breastfeeding does not speed up recovery, as was previously believed [1].

The pain is felt over the pubic joint at the front and at the back of the pelvis, over the sacroiliac joints. It can spread to the buttocks, groin and thighs [1]. It is typically worse with loading and can appear several hours after the activity [1]. Walking, standing, lifting, sitting for long periods and turning in bed can be difficult [1]. The pain often gets worse with changes of position, stairs and asymmetrical movements [2].

The diagnosis is made from the woman's description of the pain and a clinical examination with provocation tests [1][2]. X-rays and other imaging are usually not useful [1]. MRI may be relevant if there is a need to distinguish the condition from others [2].

The main approach is to adjust daily life so that you avoid what triggers pain [1][3]. The sources mention, among other things, this advice:

• Distribute the load evenly on both legs and take short steps [1][3].
• Sit when you can do tasks seated, and avoid sitting with crossed legs [1][3].
• Use a pillow between the knees when lying on your side, and lift evenly and close to the body [1][3].

Physiotherapy with individually adapted, stabilising exercises for the pelvis is described as part of treatment [1][2]. A pelvic support belt can help some women, and according to NHI it is best combined with guidance from a physiotherapist [1][3]. Exercise in a warm-water pool is also mentioned [2][3]. Long-term use of crutches should be avoided [2][3].

Contact a doctor if you have severe pelvic pain every day, or if the pain limits what you can manage in daily life [3]. If the pain persists two months after the birth, the Danish medical handbook recommends further investigation to rule out other causes [2].

A chiropractor can examine the pelvis and back, go through what triggers the pain in daily life and plan further follow-up together with you. You do not need a referral from a doctor to book an appointment. You can also read more about pelvic girdle pain.

How long does pelvic pain last after childbirth?

In most women it disappears after the birth. The Danish patient handbook states that the pain disappears in more than 9 out of 10 within three to six months, but some develop long-lasting symptoms [1][2][3].

Does pelvic girdle pain go away by itself after childbirth?

In the great majority the symptoms disappear after the birth [1]. If they persist two months after the birth, further investigation is recommended to rule out other causes [2].

Can I exercise when I have pelvic pain after childbirth?

The sources describe individually adapted exercises guided by a physiotherapist and exercise in a warm-water pool [1][2][3]. Which exercises are suitable depends on your symptoms and must be assessed individually.

Does breastfeeding help to get rid of pelvic girdle pain?

No. Breastfeeding does not speed up recovery, as was previously believed [1].

The page about the pelvic floor muscles gives information about pelvic floor problems, which are not covered here. You can find more articles in the overview of articles.

This article was written by Dr.Dropin Fysikalske and is based on the sources listed below. It gives general information and does not replace an examination by a healthcare professional.

The websites were accessed and read on 22 October 2026.

1. Bekkenleddsmerter (bekkenløsning) (Pelvic girdle pain). NHI.no. Last updated 1 September 2025. Link

2. Hvidman L. Graviditetsrelaterede bækkensmerter. Lægehåndbogen, sundhed.dk. Professionally updated 2 April 2024. Link

3. Hvidman L. Bækkensmerter under graviditeten. Patienthåndbogen, sundhed.dk. Professionally updated 1 April 2024. Link