what is this swelling???

[LukesMum]

It seems like everytime I have an "issue" it's Sunday and if I call my CNM I'll end up with the Dr on call and they will tell me to go to the emergency room. Hopin g for a little reassurance/advice here. I have been sore around my pubic bone for a few days. Yesterday in the shower I noticed a large "swelling " mass in the area in fromt of my pubic bone (where my pubic hair is) No swelling of the labia or vaginal area. It's quite sore and I would say got to the point yesterday that it was the size of say 1/2 a tennis ball!! I iced it and got off my feet. This morning-it's better but still there. I will go into my CNM tommorow but should I be concerned today??

I'm 30 weeks and planning a homebirth with a CPM--I am still seeing a CNM in a very medically managed practice as I had some early issues (first trimester bleeding, and a genetic issue to test for which I came out neg. on. My CNM has kept me in her care and just says' DOn't tell me your plans") My CPM was here yesterday and said it felt like a "mass" and I should get it checked but with no fever she wasn't overly concerned. Any advice??? It is sore!

[birthinglau]

Well, it's good that you had a CPM check it out. Did she say anything to you about the possibility of it being your symphysis pubis (the fibrocartilage that holds your pubic bones together in the front) having seperated?

I loaned out my Spiritual Midwifery, which I think talks about this, so I can't give you anything concrete. but sometimes that space will seperate and it can cause discomfort and pain, particularly when standing and walking. I haven't heard of it causing a large amount of swelling, but it's something to consider.

Midwifery Today has a discussion about it on their web boards, if you want to check there.
-Lau

[LukesMum]

the OB at the practice I have gone to who was on call today--says she thinks it's either 1. varicosity or 2. hernia--leaning more towards hernia. It's strange though because it's right on the top 1/2 of my pubic bone on the left side.. I had a bad expereince at the office today--she didn't even introduce herself-rushed in and just said "why are you undressed?" (because I had overalls on and she needed to check that area!!) I really didn't care for her bedside manner at all and what she said just doesn't seem right to me. ?? I'll check out midwifery today!