Severe Pubic Symphysis Diastasis Managed Conservatively: A Case Report and Review

Background: Pubic symphysis diastasis (PSD) is an uncommon complication of labor and delivery. Common risk factors of PSD include precipitous labor, rapid second stage of labor, intense uterine contractions, prior pelvic pathology, multiparity and macrosomia. Diagnosis is made clinically and confirmed by imaging. Management of PSD depends on the severity of symptoms and degree of symphysis separation. Standard therapy is conservative, but surgery may be needed in severe cases. Case Report: A 25-year-old female at term pregnancy presented in active labor and had a rapid second stage of labor without intravenous oxytocin or an epidural. She was subsequently diagnosed with severe PSD with a 5.5 cm separation. Her management included a pelvic binder, pain management, physical therapy, and serial imaging to monitor improvement. Discussion: In severe cases, surgery can be avoided in favor of conservative measures for the management of PSD. Multidisciplinary involvement with orthopedic surgery, radiology, physical therapy, and anesthesiology can play a vital role in optimal management. PSD may recur in future deliveries, but this does not preclude vaginal birth.