Preparing for Birth and Beyond: How Pelvic Floor Therapy Can Help

Photo Credit: Erin Heuser Photography

Pregnancy and childbirth are profound experiences that bring about significant changes in a woman’s body. While much of the focus tends to be on the visible aspects of pregnancy—like the growing belly—there’s an intricate network of muscles, ligaments, and tissues working behind the scenes to support both the baby and the mother. Among these, the pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role. However, they are often overlooked until issues arise. This is where pelvic floor therapy comes in, offering significant benefits during and after pregnancy.

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that span the base of the pelvis. These muscles support the bladder, uterus, and bowel, playing a vital role in urinary and bowel control, sexual function, and stability of the pelvic organs. During pregnancy, the weight of the growing baby, hormonal changes, and the physical strain of childbirth can weaken or strain these muscles, leading to various complications.

Common Pelvic Floor Issues During and After Pregnancy

Many women experience pelvic floor issues during and after pregnancy, but they are often dismissed as just “part of being a mom.” Some common issues include:

• Urinary Incontinence: Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or exercising is a common problem during and after pregnancy.

• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A condition where the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) descend into or outside the vaginal canal, often due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.

• Painful Intercourse: After childbirth, some women experience pain during intercourse, often due to trauma or weakness in the pelvic floor muscles.

• Diastasis Recti: Separation of the abdominal muscles during pregnancy, which can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction.

While these issues are common, they are not normal, and should not be something women have to live with. Pelvic floor therapy can help address and prevent these problems, improving quality of life during and after pregnancy.

The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy

Pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy can help you maintain and strengthen these vital muscles, reducing the risk of complications and preparing your body for childbirth. Here’s how:

1. Prevention of Urinary Incontinence:

By learning and practicing pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, during pregnancy, you can reduce the likelihood of urinary incontinence both during pregnancy and postpartum. A strong pelvic floor can better support the bladder and control the urethra, preventing leaks.

However, it’s important to note that not all pelvic floor issues stem from weakness. In some cases, women may have a pelvic floor that is too tight, known as pelvic floor hypertension. This can present with similar symptoms to a weak pelvic floor, such as urinary incontinence or pelvic pain. In these instances, performing Kegels without proper assessment can actually make the condition worse by further tightening the muscles.

This is where a personalized approach becomes crucial. The 1:1 Body Assessment offered through Beloved Birth & Beyond Collective is a valuable tool to help determine whether you have pelvic floor hypertension or hypotension (weakness).

2. Preparation for Labor and Delivery:

A well-conditioned pelvic floor can aid in the labor process. Pelvic floor therapy can help you learn how to relax and control these muscles, which is essential for an efficient labor and delivery. Being in tune with your pelvic floor can also help prevent or minimize tearing during childbirth.

3. Alleviation of Pregnancy-Related Discomfort:

Pelvic floor therapy can help relieve common discomforts like pelvic pain, lower back pain, and pressure, which are often exacerbated by the weight of the baby and changes in posture. Your therapist can guide you through exercises and stretches to alleviate these issues.

4. Improved Pelvic Stability:

The pelvic floor works in conjunction with the core muscles to stabilize the pelvis. Strengthening these muscles can improve your overall balance and posture during pregnancy, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy After Pregnancy

The postpartum period, often referred to as the “fourth trimester,” is a time of healing and adjustment. Pelvic floor therapy can play a significant role in your recovery and long-term health after childbirth.

1. Recovery from Childbirth:

Whether you had a vaginal delivery or a cesarean section, your pelvic floor muscles will need time and care to recover. Pelvic floor therapy can help restore strength and function to these muscles, speeding up recovery and reducing the risk of long-term issues.

2. Prevention and Treatment of Prolapse:

Pelvic organ prolapse can occur postpartum due to the strain placed on the pelvic floor during pregnancy and childbirth. Therapy can help lift and support the organs, reducing the severity of prolapse or preventing it altogether.

3. Management of Diastasis Recti:

Diastasis recti, or the separation of abdominal muscles, is common after pregnancy and can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction. A pelvic floor therapist can guide you through specific exercises to help close the gap and restore core strength.

4. Addressing Pain and Discomfort:

Many women experience pain during intercourse or persistent pelvic pain after childbirth. Pelvic floor therapy can help release tension, improve muscle tone, and alleviate pain, making it easier to return to sexual activity and normal daily functions.

5. Long-Term Pelvic Health:

Pelvic floor therapy doesn’t just benefit you in the short term; it can also protect your pelvic health as you age. Regular pelvic floor exercises and therapy can help prevent future issues, such as incontinence or prolapse, that often occur later in life.

When to Start Pelvic Floor Therapy

It’s never too early or too late to start pelvic floor therapy. Many women begin therapy during pregnancy to prepare for childbirth, while others may start postpartum to aid in recovery. If you’re experiencing symptoms like urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, or a feeling of heaviness in your pelvis, it’s a good idea to seek out a pelvic floor therapist for an evaluation.

Finding the Right Pelvic Floor Therapist

Finding a therapist who specializes in pelvic floor therapy is key to getting the most out of your treatment. Look for a therapist who has experience working with pregnant and postpartum women and who can provide personalized care tailored to your needs. Your therapist should take the time to assess your individual situation, teach you exercises, and provide guidance on lifestyle changes that can support your pelvic health. Check out the pelvic floor therapist listed on our resources page.

Pelvic floor therapy is an invaluable tool for maintaining and restoring pelvic health during and after pregnancy. It offers numerous benefits, from preventing incontinence and prolapse to easing discomfort and speeding up postpartum recovery. By taking the time to care for your pelvic floor, you’re investing in your long-term health and well-being, ensuring that you can enjoy motherhood to the fullest.