I would like to do some very informal research on SPD/pelvic instability and the impact that birthing has on post-birth recovery.

I am scared s***less of having another baby because my SPD was pretty full-on for six months after the birth. I suspect this was because I was pushing for 2.5 hours flat on my back (no other choice as I had an epidural) with my legs raised to my chest.

So, I am curious as to whether having a caesarean would be a better option for me.

To that end, I have a few questions:

1. How far into your pregnancy did you get SPD?

2. Before the birth, how severe (1-10, one being the lowest, 10 being the highest) would you say your SPD was? eg. 1 being a bit niggly, 3 you needed a belt, 8, you needed crutches, 10 you were wheelchair-bound.

3. If you had a vaginal birth, how long was your pushing stage and in what position? Did you have forceps/vacuum?

Or

4. Did you have a caesarean? If so, how would you compare the pain recovering from a caesarean to the SPD?

5. How severe was your SPD after the birth (using the same scale as before) and how long was it before you could bend, walk or stand relatively painlessly?

6. How did you manage your SPD eg. wearing a belt, regular clinical pilates etc. etc.?