Q:I'm six months pregnant and my hips and pubic bone have started to hurt when I walk.Why is this?

A:You may have a common pregnancy condition called pelvic girdle pain,previously known as symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD).Pregnancy hormones cause the ligaments to stretch,which loosens the pelvic joints so there's more flexibility during labour.But these changes can lead to pain.
   Your midwife might prefer you to a physiotherapist who can give you exercises or suggest you wear a properly fitted support belt around the pelvis.Try to keep your knees together,swinging both legs round when you get out of a car or bed.
   Good birthing positions are on all fours,or laying on your side.Also measure how far you can open your knees comfortably,then if you're numbed with an epidural,you won't cause any further damage.