If you are pregnant and experiencing pelvic pain that makes everyday movements—like walking, climbing stairs, or turning over in bed—unexpectedly difficult, I want to say this clearly from the outset: pelvic floor pain is real, and it deserves to be taken seriously. Many women are told this type of pain is simply “part of pregnancy” and something to endure. While pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic girdle pain (often abbreviated as PFD, or PGP) is common, that does not mean it is insignificant, imaginary, or untouchable. Understanding what is happening in your body is the first step toward reducing strain and moving through pregnancy with greater confidence and comfort.

What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction / Pain (PFD)?

Pelvic floor pain refers to discomfort that originates from the joints and surrounding structures of the pelvis during pregnancy. The pelvis functions as a ring, transferring weight between the upper body and the legs. For that system to work well, the joints must move in a coordinated, balanced way.

During pregnancy, the demands placed on this system change rapidly. When the pelvis struggles to distribute load evenly—especially during movement—pain can develop. This pain is often mechanical in nature, meaning it is influenced by posture, movement patterns, and how forces travel through the body.

PFD is distinct from general low back pain, although the two can overlap. Women with pelvic floor pain often describe discomfort that feels deep, specific, and closely tied to movement rather than a constant ache. Recognizing this distinction matters because pelvic floor pain often responds best to targeted movement strategies and supportive care, rather than rest alone.

Common Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Pain

Pelvic floor pain does not always announce itself loudly at first. For many women, it begins as a mild irritation during certain movements and gradually becomes more noticeable as pregnancy progresses.

One of the defining features of PFD is that it tends to flare during activities that require the body to shift weight unevenly or stabilize on one side. Over time, these repeated stresses can lead to persistent discomfort.

Common experiences include:

• Pain when walking, especially after short distances
• Difficulty climbing stairs or standing on one leg
• Sharp or aching pain when rolling over in bed
• Discomfort getting in and out of cars
• Pain felt at the front of the pelvis, hips, low back, or inner thighs
• A sensation of instability or “catching” through the pelvis

Importantly, symptoms often worsen as the day goes on. This pattern reflects accumulated mechanical strain rather than injury, and it helps guide how we approach relief.

Why Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Pain Happens During Pregnancy

Pelvic floor dysfunction rarely has a single cause. Instead, it develops as the body adapts to several overlapping changes that occur during pregnancy.

As your baby grows, your center of gravity shifts forward. This alters how weight is transferred through the pelvis and legs, increasing demand on joints that may not be used to carrying load in the same way. At the same time, pregnancy encourages greater joint movement to allow for growth and prepare for delivery. While this flexibility is necessary, it can temporarily reduce stability if muscles are not coordinating efficiently.

Muscle coordination plays a critical role here. The muscles of the hips, core, and pelvic region are responsible for guiding movement and stabilizing joints. Fatigue, posture changes, or habitual movement patterns can disrupt this coordination, allowing joints to absorb more force than intended.

Add to this the reality of daily life—stairs, uneven standing, carrying children or bags—and it becomes clear why pelvic floor pain is so common, even among otherwise healthy and active women.

Daily Activities That Often Aggravate Pelvic Floor Pain

Pelvic floor pain is often less about what you do and more about how often certain movements are repeated without support or modification.

Activities that involve single-leg loading or twisting through the pelvis tend to be the most provocative. These movements require precise coordination, and during pregnancy that precision can be harder to maintain.

Common aggravators include:

• Climbing stairs, particularly leading with the same leg repeatedly
• Standing with weight shifted onto one hip
• Taking long strides while walking
• Rolling quickly in and out of bed
• Getting in and out of cars without keeping the knees together

Recognizing these patterns allows you to adjust proactively rather than reacting after pain flares.

Practical Ways to Reduce Pelvic Floor Strain

Managing pelvic floor pain is not about avoiding movement altogether. In fact, complete rest often leads to stiffness and deconditioning, which can worsen discomfort over time. The goal is intentional, supported movement.

One of the most effective strategies is to move symmetrically whenever possible. Keeping movements balanced—such as standing evenly on both feet or bringing the knees together when rolling—reduces uneven load through the pelvis. Shortening your walking stride can also be surprisingly helpful, as it minimizes excessive pelvic rotation.

Transitions deserve special attention. Getting out of bed, cars, or chairs slowly and deliberately can prevent sudden spikes in discomfort. At night, placing a pillow between the knees while side sleeping can help keep the pelvis in a more neutral position, reducing overnight strain.

Perhaps most importantly, pacing matters. Breaking activities into manageable segments and alternating movement with rest often leads to better outcomes than pushing through pain or avoiding activity altogether.

Can Prenatal Chiropractic Help with Pelvic Floor Pain?

Prenatal chiropractic care approaches pelvic floor pain from a functional, conservative standpoint. It does not treat pelvic pain as a disease, nor does it replace obstetric care. Instead, it focuses on supporting how the body moves and adapts during pregnancy.

Care is tailored to the pregnant body and may include:

• Gentle techniques to support balanced pelvic and spinal movement
• Reducing mechanical strain during postural changes
• Improving comfort with daily activities
• Supporting efficient movement patterns as pregnancy progresses

When the pelvis and spine move more comfortably, many women find that everyday tasks feel less taxing. Prenatal chiropractic care is designed to complement care from obstetricians and midwives, emphasizing collaboration and patient safety.

When Pelvic Pain Needs Medical Evaluation

While Pelvic Floor Dysfunction is common, not all pelvic pain should be managed conservatively without further input. Certain signs warrant prompt discussion with your obstetric provider.

These include:

• Sudden or severe pain
• Neurological symptoms such as numbness or weakness
• Pain accompanied by fever, bleeding, or other systemic symptoms
• Pain that significantly limits daily function despite supportive strategies

Clear boundaries and collaborative care are essential to protecting both mother and baby.

A Reassuring Closing Thought

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction can be physically uncomfortable and emotionally draining—especially when it interferes with sleep, mobility, or confidence in your body. But it does not mean your body is failing, nor does it mean you must simply endure discomfort until delivery.

Pregnancy places extraordinary demands on the pelvis. With informed support, thoughtful movement choices, and appropriate care, many women find meaningful relief and a greater sense of control over their experience.

You deserve to feel supported as your body does this important work. And no—suffering is not a prerequisite for a healthy pregnancy.  You can call OR TEXT us at:  (214) 880-6330 for an appointment.  You can also use our webform for availability options.  Let us know what works for you and we’ll call you to confirm.

 Legacy Family Chiropractic – Chiropractor in McKinney, TX
 Call or Text Now: (214) 880-6330
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 Address: 3721 S Stonebridge Dr. Suite 202 | McKinney, TX  75070