Pre-natal & post-partum pelvic health physiotherapy

In a short span of time, a pregnant woman’s body goes through numerous changes: stretching of the abdominal wall, greater pressure on the bladder, urethra and pelvic floor, exaggerated lumbar lordosis and hormonal changes. 

These changes are necessary for fetal development and to prepare the body for labour, but often lead to back pain, pelvic pain and urinary incontinence.  

In the past, women who experienced pelvic floor dysfunction often kept their issues private. In many cases women believed what they were experiencing was normal and learned to “grin and bear it”. But no woman should suffer in silence. Pelvic health physiotherapy is a growing practice in Canada and is recognized for successfully treating a variety of pelvic health concerns.  

 
Pelvic health challenges include: 

• Incontinence 
• Urge 
• Pelvic pain 
• Low back pain 
• Tailbone pain 
• Painful sex 
• Transitional pain (taking the stairs, rolling over in bed, sit to stand, etc.) 
• Rectus diastasis  

How can physiotherapy help? 

Pre and post-natal pelvic floor muscle training is effective in decreasing pain and urinary incontinence. A physiotherapist will assess, treat and educate patients on how to perform exercises safely and effectively, employing an individualized approach. Pre-natal perineal massage is a technique pelvic health physiotherapists use to help women prepare for delivery; by stretching the perineal tissues and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. This technique, along with improved pre-natal fitness, will contribute to an easier pregnancy and delivery.   

Rectus diastasis is the separation of your rectus abdominis muscles and a cause for a weak abdominal wall. It is very common for women post-partum and can be the reason for low back pain, constipation and incontinence. It’s important to let your belly heal and a physiotherapist can help with gradually bringing the belly muscles back together.  

Do you think urinary incontinence is a sign of “normal” aging? Or that pain in your pelvic region is to be expected after childbirth? It is common, but it is NOT normal. Pelvic health rehabilitation can help you get back to life. 

Please visit https://www.lifemark.ca/services/pelvic-health for more information or to find a pelvic health physiotherapist in your region.