The Role Of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy After Pregnancy

Posted on: 3 January 2023

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Pregnancy has a major impact on the body. Even after labor and delivery, you may feel the impact on your pelvic floor.

If you're concerned with your pelvic floor, you may turn to physiotherapy to treat the common issues that develop with pregnancy. Here's what you should know about pelvic floor physiotherapy.

Strengthens Muscles

The pelvic floor muscles are located at the base of your pelvis and help to support the bladder, uterus, clitoris, and rectum. During pregnancy, these muscles can become weak or overstressed due to the extra weight placed on them.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy strengthens these muscles through exercises such as Kegels and pelvic tilts.

Improves Posture

Poor posture is a common issue after pregnancy as a result of weak muscles, extra weight, and changes in hormone levels. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help improve your posture by strengthening the core and back muscles. This will also help relieve any lower back pain.

Improves Sexual Dysfunction

As a result of weakened pelvic floor muscles, you may experience issues with sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help treat the root causes of these issues and improve your sexual health.

Helps with Incontinence

Incontinence is a common issue after pregnancy due to weakened pelvic floor muscles and changes in hormone levels. Physiotherapy can help build strength in the pelvic floor muscles and reduce incontinence symptoms.

Helps You Regain Control

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is not only beneficial for treating issues related to pregnancy, but it can also help you regain control of your body.

The exercises can help strengthen the muscles and give you more control over them. This will make it easier to do everyday activities that require physical strength, such as lifting a baby or carrying groceries.

You Can Do Pelvic Floor Therapy at Home

Although pelvic floor physiotherapy is best when completed with a professional, there are exercises that you can do at home to improve your pelvic floor strength.

Kegels, for example, can be done anywhere and require no equipment. Additionally, many women find it helpful to use weights or resistance bands to add more intensity to their workouts.

Talk to a Physiotherapist for Postpartum Recovery

If you're concerned about the role of pelvic floor physiotherapy after pregnancy, it's best to talk to a doctor or physiotherapist. They can assess your individual needs and provide personalized exercises that will help with postpartum recovery. 

For more information about pelvic floor physiotherapy treatments, contact a local doctor.