Bouncing Back: Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy After Childbirth

Giving birth to a baby is one of those monumental events in your life that changes everything. It also comes with some significant health challenges. One of those challenges is weakening of your pelvic floor muscles. These muscles work hard during pregnancy and childbirth, and need some help to recover afterwards.

That’s where pelvic floor physiotherapy can help. But first, let’s figure out that pelvic floor is.

What is pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a supportive sling across the base of the pelvis. These structures are important for keeping pelvic organs in place. They support the bladder, urethra, rectum, and, in women, the uterus and vagina.

Think of your pelvic floor as a hammock supporting your internal organs. Pregnancy and childbirth can stretch and weaken these muscles. This may cause problems like incontinence, pelvic pain, or prolapse. Prolapse happens when an organ or tissue slips or drops down from its normal position.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy helps to rehabilitate these muscles and restore their proper function.

How pelvic floor physiotherapy can benefit postpartum recovery?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy  has multiple ways to help your post-natal recovery, here are the most common ones:

• Bladder and bowel control. It is common to leak urine when you sneeze or laugh after childbirth. However, this does not have to be your new normal. Pelvic floor physiotherapy helps you regain control and confidence. Exercises help you strengthen the muscles, improve bladder control and reduce or eliminate the problem altogether.
• Pelvic pain: Childbirth puts a lot of stress on your pelvic region. Pain results from muscle tension, weakness, lack of blood circulation. Physiotherapy helps alleviate pain through targeted exercises and manual therapy techniques. They target the muscles, nerves, and connective tissues in the pelvic region. Hands-on methods such as soft tissue massage and joint mobilization release muscle tension and improve circulation within the pelvic area.
• Heals and strengthens the pelvic floor: Whether you had a vaginal or cesarean delivery, your pelvic floor needs attention. Physiotherapy aids in the healing process and strengthens the muscles to prevent future problems. Improved blood circulation to the pelvic region stimulates tissue healing and muscle growth.
• Healing diastasis recti and improves core stability: One of the most common problems postpartum is stretched abdominal muscles and diastasis recti. Healing diastasis recti by targeting the deep abdominal muscles, like the transverse abdominis, to close the gap between the separated muscles, through controlled exercises will promote tissue healing, rebuild strength, and reestablishe proper core function.
• Enhances intimacy: Changes in the pelvic floor can affect sexual function. Physiotherapy addresses these issues, helping you regain comfort and enjoyment in intimate moments.
• Provides personalized care: Every woman’s postpartum journey is unique. A pelvic floor physiotherapist tailors a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.

What to Expect from your physiotherapy appointment?

A pelvic floor physiotherapist will do a complete assessment. This includes discussing your symptoms, education and an internal exam, if you are comfortable. They’ll then create a personalized plan that includes exercises, education, and manual therapy techniques.

Finding a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in Your Area

You can find a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist through your doctor, midwife, or by searching online directories.  College of Physiotherapists of Ontario is a great resource to find a physiotherapist in your area. If you live in the Newmarket area, our Wellness Centre has qualified physiotherapists who are ready to assist.

Taking care of your pelvic floor is an investment in your long-term health and well-being. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a pelvic floor physiotherapist – they’re your partners in postpartum recovery.

Important note: This blog post provides general information. Consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment is essential.

Additional resources:

1.Canadian Physiotherapy Association. (2023). Pelvic Health. Retrieved from https://physiotherapy.ca/your-health/pelvic-health

2.Pelvic Health Solutions. (2022). Understanding Pelvic Pain. Retrieved from https://pelvichealthsolutions.ca/for-patients/understanding-pelvic-pain/

3.The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. (2021). Pelvic Floor Disorders. Retrieved from https://sogc.org/en/Patients/Pelvic-Floor-Disorders