Pregnancy and Your Pelvic Floor: Soulshine Pelvic Health’s Ultimate Guide for Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth come with plenty of new things to learn and prioritize. However, one thing that typically gets neglected is mom’s pelvic health during pregnancy and after giving birth. To shed some light on this topic, we’ve created this easy guide. Here is everything you need to know about pelvic health during pregnancy and beyond.
What is Pelvic Health?
Pelvic health, especially in relation to pregnancy, involves a specialized area of physical therapy that centers on the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor physical therapists, such as myself, undergo training as general physical therapists, often with doctorates, before delving into additional coursework and training specific to pelvic health.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
So, what exactly is the pelvic floor? Think of it as a group of muscles that form a supportive base for organs like the uterus, bladder, and rectum in females, and the prostate, bladder, and rectum in males. Despite the anatomical differences, these muscles serve similar vital functions across genders, including supporting organs, controlling bowel and bladder movements, and contributing to sexual function. Moreover, they play a crucial role in stabilizing the hips and spine.
When Should I See A Pelvic Health Specialist During Pregnancy?
We typically recommend scheduling your first visit toward the end of the first trimester or early in the second trimester, especially if you’re experiencing no symptoms. However, if you’re facing issues like pelvic pain, bladder or bowel problems, sexual discomfort, or limitations in daily activities or exercise, it’s time to seek professional guidance. Even if you’re still trying to conceive!
Remember, pregnancy experiences vary, and it’s essential to listen to your body and seek support when needed. If any of these signs resonate with you, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a pelvic health specialist to ensure your comfort and well-being throughout pregnancy.
Learn more here: When Should I See A Pelvic Health Specialist During Pregnancy?
What Does a Pelvic Floor Specialist Do For New and Expecting Moms?
What does a pelvic floor physical therapist do, particularly in the context of pregnancy and postpartum care? We’re here to address a range of issues including pelvic pain, bowel and bladder concerns, pelvic organ prolapse, and musculoskeletal discomfort. By carefully assessing and treating any dysfunction in the pelvic floor muscles, our goal is to enhance overall pelvic health and function, ensuring the well-being of individuals during and after pregnancy.
What are the Best Pelvic Positions For Giving Birth?
Choice and informed consent are key during childbirth. While pushing on your back may increase some risks, alternative positions like squatting or lying on your side can offer relief. It’s crucial to find what feels right for you, and the best outcomes are typically found when the birthing person chooses their labor and pushing position as opposed to being directed. Epidurals can limit movement but may provide relief for significant discomfort. Ultimately, the decision depends on various factors, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Trust your intuition and collaborate with your healthcare team to create a birthing experience that suits you best.
Get more information here: What are the Best Pelvic Positions For Giving Birth?
What Does it Mean to “Relax Your Pelvic Floor” During Childbirth?
During childbirth, the advice to “relax your pelvic floor” is common, but what does it really mean?
Simply put, it’s about lengthening these muscles, which span from your pubic bone to your tailbone, creating a diamond-shaped base at the bottom of your body. Various methods, including sexual activity, hip mobility exercises, breath work, prenatal yoga, and mindfulness and meditation, can help achieve this relaxation. As each person’s journey is unique, discovering personalized pelvic floor care is essential. Learning how to lengthen and relax the pelvic floor before childbirth is key for a successful delivery, especially if there is an epidural involved as this will limit sensation and awareness during delivery.
Want more information? Check out our full blog: What Does it Mean to “Relax Your Pelvic Floor” During Childbirth
How Does Breathwork Play into Pelvic Health?
Breathwork is a valuable tool for improving pelvic health by helping the body relax and reduce stress. When we experience pelvic pain, stress can make it worse. Breathwork activates the body’s natural relaxation response, which helps alleviate tension and discomfort. By practicing breathwork regularly, such as through simple breathing exercises or guided meditation, we can better manage pelvic pain and promote overall well-being. Ideal breathing techniques involve the diaphragm, abdominals, back muscles, and pelvic floor, which allows for improved coordination of the muscles and deep canister.
Read more about breathwork and pelvic health here: The Benefits of Breathwork for Pelvic Health
When Should I See a Pelvic Specialist Postpartum?
Recovery after giving birth is crucial for your pelvic floor health. But when’s the right time to start the process? Similarly to most things in physical therapy, it’s not a one-size-fits-all approach. While some may wait until the standard six-week mark post-birth, the timing really depends on your unique experience. If you’re facing issues like hip or back pain, or urinary leakage, it’s worth considering starting sooner. There are exercises and strategies that can help alleviate discomfort and speed up your recovery. Remember, setting personalized goals for your recovery journey is key, whether it’s running a marathon or simply feeling stronger in your daily life.
Want more info on pelvic floor recovery? Check out our blog: Postpartum Pelvic Floor Recovery: What to Expect in Your First Visit
What Should I Expect During Postpartum Recovery?
During your pelvic floor appointments, expect a tailored experience focused on your specific needs. We’ll assess your core strength, posture, and functionality, guiding you through practical movements that mimic daily activities to improve muscle coordination. Props like a baby carrier may be used to make exercises relatable to everyday life. Additionally, we’ll educate you on proper lifting techniques and create a personalized treatment plan to optimize your recovery journey. Remember, every step you take brings you closer to a stronger and more functional life as a new parent.
Is Pelvic Floor Recovery Different After a C-Section?
Pelvic floor recovery after a C-section presents unique considerations compared to vaginal birth. While C-sections may lower the incidence of urinary leakage compared to vaginal births, they don’t necessarily make pelvic floor recovery simpler. You still need to prioritize pelvic floor health and seek appropriate support and guidance as needed. By focusing on proper care and attention, you can support your postpartum well-being regardless of the method of delivery. Additionally, scar work for cesarean is vital for improving core control after a major abdominal surgery.
Want more information? Check out our blog: Pelvic Health and C-Sections
What are Some Products to Make Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery Easier?
Ensuring a smoother pregnancy and postpartum recovery involves having the right tools at your disposal. Some of our favorite recommendations include a squatty potty, pelvic wand, Epsom salt, and plenty of electrolytes.
Investing in these tools can help you proactively support your well-being throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
Read more here: Pelvic Floor Must-Haves for New Moms
Still Have Questions?
Got questions about your pelvic health? Whether you are trying to conceive, already pregnant, or postpartum, we are here to help. Start your pelvic health journey by scheduling your first appointment with us here.
About Meghan Davidson:
Meghan Davidson is the Founder of Soulshine Pelvic Health, based in Columbia, South Carolina. A pelvic floor physical therapist with over five years of experience, Meghan’s journey began at the University of South Carolina. After graduation, she started her practice as a side hustle, eventually transitioning to full-time self-employment and expanding her team.
At Soulshine Pelvic Health, Meghan and her team focus solely on pelvic floor dysfunction, including bowel, bladder, and sexual issues across all genders. They also handle unique cases like pelvic pain management and post-operative care. Soulshine’s holistic approach and dedication to their patients have made them a respected clinic in the community, empowering individuals to reclaim their health and well-being.
