Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy During Pregnancy

Too often, women who are pregnant are bombarded with conflicting information of what they should and should not do for a healthy pregnancy, added stress and uncertainty to an already challenging time. Having a pelvic floor physical therapist across your pregnancy can allow you to:

• get answers from a credible source
• stay active which has direct benefits for both mom and baby
• reduce pain or discomfort
• prepare for labor and delivery
• optimize postpartum recovery.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized practice that focuses on the health of the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles can be adversely affected during pregnancy, often leading to conditions like incontinence and pelvic pain. The therapy involves exercises and techniques aimed at coordination of the pelvic floor, which can alleviate some of the discomforts associated with pregnancy.

At Resolve Physical Therapy in Orange County, NY, specialists in pelvic floor physical therapy provide personalized care tailored to the needs of pregnant women. These professionals are trained to ensure that exercises are performed correctly and safely, optimizing the health benefits without risking injury to the mother or the baby.

Why Consider Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the body undergoes significant changes that put pressure on the pelvic floor. This can result in weakened muscles before the baby even arrives. By engaging in pelvic floor physical therapy, you can preemptively address these issues. Therapy sessions often include exercises that not only strengthen the muscles but also improve flexibility and circulation in the pelvic area which can improve labor and delivery outcomes.

Moreover, pelvic floor therapy can help pregnant women gain control over their bladder and bowel movements. It can also contribute significantly to sexual function, making it an all-encompassing treatment that addresses multiple aspects of a woman’s health during pregnancy.

How Pelvic Floor Therapy Aids Childbirth Preparation

One of the primary benefits of pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy is its role in preparing the body for childbirth. An improved awareness of your pelvic muscles can facilitate a smoother delivery process. Pelvic PT teaches breathing and relaxation techniques that are invaluable during labor. We also review how to complete perineal massage which is shown to reduce incidence and degree of tearing during a vaginal delivery.

Postpartum Recovery and Pelvic Floor Therapy

The advantages of pelvic floor therapy extend beyond pregnancy and childbirth. After delivery, many women experience pelvic floor issues such as incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. Starting pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy and continuing it postpartum can significantly speed up recovery and improve the quality of postpartum life.

By continuing with pelvic floor physical therapy after giving birth, new mothers can enhance their recovery process. The therapy helps to restore muscle tone and strength, which can be significantly altered after childbirth. Moreover, it can provide emotional support as women adapt to the changes in their bodies.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physical therapy during pregnancy isn’t just a good idea; it’s a proactive measure that supports the mother’s and baby’s overall health and wellness. From easing pregnancy-related discomfort to preparing for a smoother childbirth and quicker postpartum recovery, the benefits of engaging in this therapy are profound.

For expectant mothers in Orange County, NY, pelvic floor physical therapy is a valuable resource that can significantly enhance the pregnancy experience. By choosing a qualified therapist and committing to regular sessions, pregnant women can ensure they are providing both their body and their baby with the best care possible.