THE PELVIC FLOOR & PREGNANCY
This week, we’re talking about pelvic floor physical therapy for pregnant individuals!
Why Should You See a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist?
There are a whole host of different reasons to see a pelvic floor PT during pregnancy, including:
New aches and pains (low back pain, sciatica, round ligament pain, hip pain)
Guidance on exercise modifications during pregnancy
Learning how to reduce the risk of perineal complication with perineal massage, specific delivery positions, and efficient pushing
Addressing new pelvic floor dysfunction like urinary incontinence or constipation
Improving your pelvic floor and core coordination for a faster delivery
Learning about pain relief techniques during labor such as TENS (electrical stimulation) and partner-assisted techniques
Figuring out a plan for postpartum, including returning to exercise
Having someone available to answer all your questions!
Could It Be Too Late for PT?
It’s never too late during your pregnancy to see a pelvic floor PT during pregnancy, even if it’s your third trimester! Depending on your individual needs, you may see your PT once a trimester, once a month, or sometimes more frequently. Typically, I plan for 2 visits close to a patient’s due date that focus on prepping for labor and delivery.
Reducing Tearing…
One of the main focuses of these visits is education on how to reduce the risk of perineal tearing. I teach patients how to perform perineal massage and take them through delivery positions that have been shown to reduce the severity of perineal tears. We also review how to push along with contractions (by the way, did you know that it’s the uterus that pushes the baby out, not your pelvic floor?) – core contraction while bearing down on a relaxed pelvic floor.
Pain Management & Recovery
We might discuss pain management strategies such as massage, TENS units, and where to rent/buy them, and partner-assisted techniques (partners are welcome at these sessions). The other main focus is helping you to create an exercise plan for the first few weeks postpartum. Depending on someone’s goals and fitness level at this stage, this can look different person to person; however, there are some similarities across the board – breathing exercises, core and pelvic floor exercises, and a walking program make up the basics. The rest is individualized to your preferences and needs.
Pelvic Floor PT is for Everyone!
Pelvic floor PT is for everyone, not just your first pregnancy. For example, during your first pregnancy, you might need a little more help figuring out how to relax your pelvic floor or improve your hip mobility to make more space for your baby. If it’s your second or third plus baby, you might need a little more help maintaining a strong core or want to address some urinary incontinence that started during one of your pregnancies. Please reach out at any time to get started or ask questions related to the pelvic floor or exercise during pregnancy.