Why See a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist When Pregnant?

Congratulations on your pregnancy journey! As your body undergoes incredible changes, it's important to prioritize your health and set yourself up for the best pregnancy and recovery. A pelvic floor physical therapist (PT) can be a valuable ally in ensuring a comfortable and healthy pregnancy experience.

The Role of a Pelvic Floor PT:

Pelvic floor physical therapists (PFPTs) are specialized healthcare professionals trained to address the musculoskeletal and neuromuscular aspects of pelvic health. They (often) have a clinical doctorate in physical therapy and then take more specific training to treat the pelvic floor and related diagnoses. During pregnancy, they play a crucial role in helping you maintain pelvic wellness and ease common pain and discomforts as well as preparing you for labor and birth.

Benefits of Seeing a Pelvic Floor PT:

Pelvic Floor Education:

A Pelvic Floor PT can provide comprehensive information about the changes your body is experiencing, helping you understand and manage pelvic-related issues during pregnancy. They can teach you how to relax the pelvic floor to ease pain and discomfort as well as teach techniques to help relax the pelvic floor while in labor and pushing for optimal length in order to decrease your risk of tearing.

Pain Relief:

Pregnancy can bring discomfort in areas like the lower back, hips, and pelvis (hello lightning crotch!). A pelvic floor PT can offer techniques to alleviate pain and improve your mobility and mechanics which may include stretches, exercises, and behavior modifications as well as massage.

Bladder and Bowel Health:

Hormonal and pressure  changes on the pelvic region can impact bladder & bowel function. A pelvic floor PT can help you maintain control & reduce the risk of incontinence or constipation.

Preparation for Labor:

Pelvic floor PTs can guide you through stretches and exercises that prepare your pelvic floor for labor and childbirth, focusing on appropriate strength and flexibility. We can teach you typical labor and birth positions, breathing techniques for labor, as well as the different types of pushing techniques. We can also educate you on (and perform) perineal massage. Kegels are not always needed, or even good, while pregnant- so having a PT formally assess your pelvic floor can be very enlightening.

Postpartum Recovery:

A pelvic floor PT can work with you to prevent or address postpartum issues, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, returning to activity safely, diastasis recti, pain with intercourse, C-section scar pain or stiffness, among other things. We can work with you while you’re pregnant, to set you up for success.

When to See a Pelvic Floor PT:

Consider consulting with a pelvic floor PT about half way through the first trimester or as soon as you experience any discomfort. Early intervention can prevent issues from escalating. Typically the first trimester is a time of fatigue and nausea, so reach out when you’re ready. Investing in your pelvic health now can lead to a more enjoyable pregnancy and a smoother postpartum recovery.