To describe our experience concerning clinical features, methods of treatment and outcomes of separation of the symphysis pubis during childbirth.

We experienced 26 cases during a period of 6 years from March 1992 to January 1998. Retrospectively, we analysed 23 cases which could be followed up for more than a year, each with separation of the symphysis pubis associated with childbirth. Method of treatment was pelvic sling and absolute bed rest in 18 cases of 23 cases, the others were treated with bed rest and early mobilization.

Clinical symptoms and physical findings were similar in all cases. The duration of symptom was from 3 weeks to a year (mean=3.2 months), the size of the gap on simple X-ray ranged from 6 mm to 28 mm (mean=16 mm) initially and from 3 mm to 11 mm (mean=4.7 mm) finally. Outcomes were good in all cases with conservative treatment, although final radiologic fingings were normalized, widening, sclerosis, erosion or osteophytes.

Separation of the symphysis pubis during childbirth was treated well with conservative treatments, although variable radiologic findings were noted in final X-ray finding.