Navigating the fog of new motherhood can make adding another item to your to-do list feel overwhelming. However, one appointment every mother should prioritize after giving birth is a visit with a pelvic health physiotherapist (PHPT).
Many women are unaware that this specialized field of physical therapy exists until they face a pelvic floor issue like incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic health physical therapists are PTs who have undergone additional education and training to manage conditions related to the pelvis. They conduct both external and internal exams and treatments, offering critical insights into the function of the pelvic floor, which is essential for any woman recovering from pregnancy and childbirth.
PHPTs typically help women dealing with:
Incontinence (urinary, fecal, and/or gas)
Pelvic organ prolapse (loss of structural support for pelvic organs)
Pelvic pain
Painful sex
Diastasis recti
Back, hip, sacrum, or coccyx pain
Postpartum recovery even without current symptoms
Pregnancy and birth are intense physical experiences. During pregnancy, the weight of a growing baby puts pressure on the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue. Hormonal changes further soften pelvic support structures to prepare for birth. These changes alone can leave the pelvic floor more susceptible to dysfunction.
For those who have had a vaginal birth, the pelvic floor can experience muscle tearing and nerve damage. For those who had a C-section, the abdominal fascia, nerves, and skin are incised, leading to postpartum symptoms. In other areas of the body, if muscle tearing, nerve damage, and major surgery occur, physical therapy is typically recommended as part of the treatment plan. Recovery from pregnancy and childbirth deserves the same level of targeted care!
A PHPT assessment empowers women to understand their body’s function and equips them with the tools to recover efficiently. This facilitates a return to daily activities and fitness with confidence. Without this assessment, it’s challenging to determine why issues like leaking or painful sex occur, or if symptoms are “normal.”
Understanding the function of the pelvic floor is crucial. Without this knowledge, a new mother might engage in activities that increase her risk of developing dysfunction, even if she isn’t currently experiencing symptoms.
Scheduling an assessment with a PHPT can significantly impact a woman’s postpartum recovery and long-term health. It’s more than just another appointment; it’s an investment in your future well-being. By prioritizing this crucial visit, new mothers can ensure they are taking the necessary steps to heal properly and regain strength. Embrace the opportunity to learn about your body, address any issues early, and pave the way for a healthier, more vibrant life postpartum.
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