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THE ROLE OF PELVIC HEALTH PHYSIOTHERAPY BEFORE AND AFTER BIRTH

HOW CAN A PHYSIOTHERAPIST HELP ME WITH DELIVERY?

Studies show pre-natal pelvic floor muscle training will lower the rate of prolonged second stage labor and reduce pregnancy related lower back and pelvic pain. Just a few sessions with a pelvic health physiotherapist can help you develop better awareness and control of your pelvic floor muscles to prepare yourself for delivery. Pregnancy significantly affects a woman’s pelvic health, making a pelvic health physiotherapist an integral part of any woman’s prenatal and postpartum care team.

LOWER BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA

Changing hormone levels affects the ligaments supporting your lower back causing weakness during pregnancy and up to 6 months after birth. A pelvic health physiotherapist can manage your pain and teach you proper techniques to help you protect your joints and keep fit during the pregnancy.

URINARY INCONTINENCE

About 40% of women experience urinary leakage during pregnancy. This increases their risk for long-term incontinence postnatal. Starting pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy and immediately during postpartum period has been shown to reduce the risk of future incontinence.

WILL HAVING A C-SECTION PROTECT ME FROM PELVIC FLOOR DYSFUNCTION?

Even if you elect for a c-section, the weight of the baby during pregnancy still puts pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. C-section scars will require postnatal attention since tension in the abdominal wall affects tissue mobility in the pelvic floor as well.