Among the many changes new mothers grapple with both during and after pregnancy, sudden changes to their pelvic floor strength or function are among the most common conditions that can benefit from treatment.
By seeking care from a medical professional early and being consistent with your treatment plan, you might be able to mitigate any dysfunction you’re experiencing and get back to your normal lifestyle without the issues caused by pelvic floor problems.
What is pelvic floor rehab?
The pelvic floor is often an overlooked part of our anatomy, yet it plays a crucial role in our overall health and well-being, especially for new mothers. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that support organs like the bladder, bowels, and, in women, the uterus. These muscles form a hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis, ensuring that everything is physically supported and can function smoothly.
However, if these muscles weaken or are damaged, it can lead to issues like incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. New mothers might experience challenges after giving birth, as childbirth can strain these muscles.
Pelvic floor therapy is a targeted and personalized plan to strengthen these muscles, ligaments, and tendons not only to relieve negative symptoms, but also to empower individuals, allowing them to regain normalcy within their bodies.
Symptoms pelvic floor therapy can treat
Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various ways, often impacting daily life. Common symptoms include incontinence and pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. Other reasons you may consider seeking pelvic floor therapy include:
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Urinary incontinence
- Pelvic discomfort
- Difficult bowel movements
One of the reasons pelvic floor therapy remains a lesser-known area of treatment is due to the perception that many people have toward its symptoms, which can seem embarrassing or unusual. In reality, many people experience these symptoms every year, whether during or after childbirth or for any number of other reasons. They are not your fault, and you’re not alone in wanting to experience effective treatment with a natural, evidence-based treatment like physical therapy.
Pelvic floor rehabilitation therapy techniques
Pelvic floor therapy encompasses a range of therapeutic approaches aimed at strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. The treatment plan is typically multi-faceted, focusing on holistic improvement.
A common component of this plan is pelvic floor physical therapy, where trained therapists guide individuals through exercises designed to target specific muscle groups. A few fundamental pelvic floor exercises we utilize include:
- Postural exercises
- Diaphragmatic breathing
- Relaxation techniques
Beyond pelvic floor exercises, pelvic rehabilitation may also include manual therapy techniques to help release tension and improve muscle function. We can also employ additional treatments that have provided benefits to pelvic floor patients, including biofeedback or electrical stimulation to help coordinate both nerves and muscles in the pelvis.
What to expect from your pelvic floor strengthening plan
Beginning pelvic floor therapy always involves an initial assessment by a qualified pelvic physical therapist, who will listen to your concerns and determine the most effective strategy for your unique condition and experience. Based on this assessment, our physical therapists will craft a comprehensive plan to guide improvement over the coming weeks and months.
For individuals who are pregnant, pelvic floor therapy can offer priceless benefits. Therapists work closely with expectant mothers to design a plan that aligns with their birth preferences, potentially preventing complications and even reducing the likelihood of requiring a C-section. This proactive approach empowers women to approach childbirth with confidence and preparedness.
Take the next steps for a better quality of life
Whether you’re starting this therapeutic journey or seeking to refine your current approach, reaching out to a qualified pelvic health professional is an excellent first step. Explore your options and discover how a personalized treatment plan can pave the way for lasting change. Start a conversation with our physical therapists about your concerns and our treatment options by calling a nearby clinic location or requesting an appointment online today.
