Can You See a Pelvic Floor Therapist While Pregnant?

The arrival of a new life is a joyous occasion, but for many expectant mothers, it also comes with a slew of physical changes. The growing baby puts enormous pressure on your body, and some of those changes can bring discomfort or even pain. One area that often gets overlooked is the pelvic floor. As the baby grows, it can put stress on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to issues like incontinence, pain during intercourse, or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region. This is where a pelvic floor therapist can come in handy.

Image: thevagwhisperer.com

While many women associate pelvic floor therapy with postpartum recovery, it’s becoming increasingly clear that seeing a pelvic floor therapist during pregnancy can be incredibly beneficial. It’s not just about preventing problems; it’s about staying proactive and taking care of your body during this transformative time.

Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy: What to Expect

Pelvic floor therapy involves working with a specialized therapist who focuses on the muscles that support your bladder, bowels, and uterus. It’s a non-invasive and safe treatment option for pregnant women. The therapist will first assess your pelvic floor muscles through a thorough physical examination. Based on your individual needs, they will then create a personalized treatment plan that could include various techniques, such as:

• Exercises: These help strengthen and improve the coordination of your pelvic floor muscles. The therapist will teach you specific exercises that you can do at home.
• Biofeedback: Using specialized devices, biofeedback helps you become aware of your pelvic floor muscles and how to contract and relax them effectively.
• Manual Therapy: Involves the therapist gently manipulating your soft tissues, improving muscle tension and restoring proper pelvic floor function.
• Education: The therapist provides valuable information on the importance of pelvic floor health, proper posture, and lifestyle changes that can help alleviate your symptoms.

The goal of pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy is to:

• Prevent and manage pregnancy-related pelvic floor dysfunction: This includes issues like urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and pelvic pain.
• Prepare for labor and delivery: Stronger pelvic floor muscles can aid in vaginal delivery, reducing the risks of tearing and other complications.
• Promote postpartum recovery: Addressing any pelvic floor issues during pregnancy can make the postpartum recovery period smoother and faster.

Why See a Pelvic Floor Therapist While Pregnant?

Many women wonder if a pelvic floor therapist is essential during pregnancy. The truth is, the benefits are numerous and can vastly improve your overall well-being:

• Alleviate Urinary Incontinence: Pregnancy hormones and the growing baby put pressure on your bladder, making it harder to control your urine. Pelvic floor therapy can strengthen the muscles that support your bladder and reduce leakage.
• Manage Back Pain and Pelvic Pain: Pregnancy can cause aches and pains in the back and pelvic region. Strengthening your pelvic floor can help improve posture and reduce these painful symptoms.
• Improve Sexual Function: Pregnancy hormones can affect your sexual desire and function. A pelvic floor therapist can address any issues you may have and help you regain control of your pelvic floor muscles, contributing to better sexual satisfaction.
• Prepare for Labor and Delivery: Stronger pelvic floor muscles can help you push more effectively during labor and make delivery easier. They can also help reduce the risks of tearing and other complications.
• Promote Postpartum Recovery: Addressing pelvic floor issues during pregnancy will make the postpartum recovery process smoother and faster, allowing you to regain your strength and enjoy motherhood without unnecessary discomfort.

Seeking a Pelvic Floor Therapist: Tips for Finding the Right One

Finding a pelvic floor therapist who is knowledgeable and experienced in working with pregnant women is crucial. Here are some tips for finding the right therapist for you.

• Ask your OB-GYN for recommendations: Your doctor is a great starting point to get referrals to trusted and qualified pelvic floor therapists in your area.
• Check online directories: Various organizations and websites offer directories of pelvic floor therapists. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and the International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS) are excellent resources.
• Contact local hospitals and clinics: Many hospitals and clinics have pelvic floor therapy departments or a list of therapists associated with them.
>Read online reviews: Check online review sites like Yelp or Healthgrades to get insights from other patients who have seen the therapist.
• Schedule a consultation: Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, schedule a consultation with a few therapists. During the consultation, ask questions about their experience, treatment philosophy, and how they approach pregnancy-related pelvic floor issues.

Image: drsandybevacqua.com

Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy: FAQs

Q: When is the best time to start pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy?

Any stage of pregnancy is a good time to start, and it’s never too late to seek help. However, ideally, it’s best to begin early on, perhaps in the second trimester, to prevent or manage issues from developing.

Q: Is pelvic floor therapy safe during pregnancy?

Yes, pelvic floor therapy is considered safe and effective for pregnant women. When performed by a qualified and experienced therapist, it poses no risk to you or your baby.

Q: Will I need pelvic floor therapy after pregnancy?

It depends on your individual needs and the severity of any existing conditions. Many women find that pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy helps them recover more quickly and smoothly after delivery. However, if you experience any lingering issues, your therapist can help you with a postpartum treatment plan.

Q: How many sessions of pelvic floor therapy will I need?

The number of sessions required varies based on your specific needs and how your body responds to treatment. It’s a personalized approach. Some may need just a few sessions, while others may benefit from longer-term therapy.

Q: Are there any risks or side effects associated with pelvic floor therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy is generally safe for pregnant women. However, inform your therapist about any pre-existing conditions or concerns you may have. Rarely, some women may experience discomfort, but your therapist can adjust treatments accordingly.

Can You See A Pelvic Floor Therapist While Pregnant

Conclusion

Pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy is becoming increasingly recognized for its benefits. Investing in your pelvic floor health can not only alleviate discomfort during pregnancy but also help you prepare for labor and delivery and ensure a smoother postpartum recovery. If you’re experiencing pelvic floor issues or simply want preventative care, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor about seeing a pelvic floor therapist.

Are you interested in learning more about pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy or have you had any personal experiences with it? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!