Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Health

Becoming a new mom is an incredible journey, but it also brings significant changes to your body, especially your pelvic health. After giving birth, many women experience various pelvic floor issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and a feeling of heaviness or pressure. These symptoms can be frustrating and sometimes embarrassing, but it’s important to know that they are common and treatable.

Common Pelvic Floor Issues After Birth

1. Incontinence: Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise is a common issue postpartum. This is due to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy and childbirth.
2. Pelvic Pain: Pain in the pelvic region can occur due to muscle strain, tearing, or nerve damage during delivery.
3. Prolapse: Some women may experience a prolapse, where the pelvic organs drop lower than usual, causing a feeling of pressure or bulging in the vagina.

The Role of Physical Therapy in Pelvic Health

Physical therapy can be a game-changer for new moms experiencing pelvic floor issues. Specialized pelvic floor physical therapists are trained to help you restore function and feel better. Here’s how they can assist:

1. Personalized Assessment: A physical therapist will evaluate your pelvic floor muscles to identify specific issues and create a customized treatment plan.
2. Strengthening Exercises: Learning and performing targeted exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, reducing incontinence and supporting pelvic organs.
3. Pain Management: Techniques such as manual therapy, stretches, and relaxation exercises can alleviate pelvic pain and improve muscle function.
4. Education and Empowerment: Physical therapists provide valuable education on how to manage symptoms and prevent future issues, empowering you to take control of your pelvic health.

Meet Our Certified Pelvic Health Specialists

At Integrated Physical Therapy, we are proud to have three highly skilled and certified pelvic health specialists dedicated to helping new moms regain their pelvic health:

1. Dr. Nicole Ramos, PT, DPT: With extensive training in pelvic floor rehabilitation, Dr.  Ramos is passionate about helping new moms prepare for birth and recover postpartum and regain their confidence.

2. Dr. Luan Menda, PT, DPT: Dr. Menda specializes in using Myofascial Release to treat pelvic pain and using a holistic approach to ensure comprehensive care for her patients.

3. Dr. Megan Stancill, PT, DPT: Focusing on pre and postpartum recovery, Dr. Stancill integrates advanced techniques in manual therapy and exercises to support new moms in their healing journey.

Tips for New Moms

1. Seek Help Early: Don’t wait to seek help if you’re experiencing pelvic floor issues. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes.
2. Be Consistent: Regularly performing pelvic floor exercises as prescribed by your therapist can make a significant difference in your recovery.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well: Proper hydration and nutrition support overall health and can aid in the healing process.
4. Be Patient: Recovery takes time, so be patient with yourself and celebrate small progress along the way.

Your body has done something amazing by bringing a new life into the world. Taking care of your pelvic health is an essential part of your postpartum journey. Physical therapy offers a safe, effective, and supportive way to address pelvic floor issues, helping you return to function and feel good again. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a pelvic floor physical therapist to start your journey to recovery and well-being. You deserve it, mom!