Impact of Delivery Mode on Coccydynia, Pelvic Girdle Pain and Rectus Diastasis in Postpartum Females

Impact of Delivery Mode on Coccydynia, Pelvic Girdle Pain and Rectus Diastasis in Postpartum Females: a Comparative Study

This comparative observational study investigates the impact of delivery mode vaginal delivery versus cesarean section on the prevalence and severity of three postpartum musculoskeletal complications: coccydynia, pelvic girdle pain (PGP), and rectus diastasis (RD). Conducted on postpartum females aged 20-40 years within 6 weeks to 6 months after childbirth, the study aims to highlight musculoskeletal outcomes often overlooked in standard postpartum care.

A total of 73 participants were selected through non-probability sampling from rehabilitation centers and home-based postpartum populations in Lahore. Pain intensity and musculoskeletal impairments were assessed using validated tools: the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for coccydynia, Pelvic Girdle Questionnaire (PGQ) for PGP, and finger-width palpation technique for RD. The data collection involved both self-reported questionnaires and clinical assessments by trained professionals. The goal is to identify how delivery mode influences musculoskeletal health and to support the development of more tailored physiotherapy interventions and postpartum care strategies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Postpartum females aged 20-40 years
• Females who delivered via vaginal delivery or cesarean section
• 6 weeks to 6 months postpartum period
• Willingness to participate and provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Females with a history of pelvic or spinal surgery prior to pregnancy
• Known cases of pre-existing musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., scoliosis, chronic back pain)
• Multiple pregnancies (twins or more) in the current or previous delivery
• Postpartum complications unrelated to delivery mode (e.g., sepsis, trauma)