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You have recently finished the equivalent of a daily marathon for the past 9 months. You're exhausted, elated, sore and probably quite overwhelmed. Making another appointment might be the last thing you feel like doing! Here's a few good reasons why you should:
The Strain of Pregnancy and Childbirth on Your Body
Pregnancy and childbirth, no matter which type of delivery, both put enormous strain on your body. Your joints had to take more weight with less ligament stability. Ligaments are normally fibrous and inelastic, but the hormones of pregnancy make them much softer and more elastic. Your muscles had to work harder to keep you moving, as that ever-growing belly kept shifting your centre of mass further forward. Yes, it is a natural phenomenon for anyone with a uterus. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Most musculoskeletal pains that start with pregnancy, will thankfully resolve after delivery. But if they don’t, it’s time to get it checked.
Pelvic Floor Health After Vaginal Delivery
If you had a vaginal delivery, it's a very good idea to check for any injury to the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments. They might be absolutely fine, which is awesome. Then we can advise you on safe return to exercise and sport, to limit stress on the area in the postpartum period. BUT…..if your pelvic floor is not all that happy, we can help with strategies to improve problems like stress urinary incontinence, bladder retention, pelvic floor muscle weakness, pelvic organ prolapse, and pain issues.
Recovery and Core Stability Post-Caesarean Section
Even if you delivered your baby by Caesarean Section, you still experienced a significant and sustained increase in pressure over your pelvic floor just from the pregnancy. And if you did have a Caesarian Section, it means you’ve had your abdomen cut open to get the baby out. This is no small recovery process! Any surgery to the abdomen can disrupt the function of your abdominal wall muscles (your 6 pack and its surrounds). It’s not only a cosmetic problem, those muscles are important for core stability too.
Understanding and Treating Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA)
Did you ever notice the midline of your belly starting to dome upwards whenever you lifted your head or strained in any way? It’s called Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA), and whilst it's generally quite normal from 35 weeks of any pregnancy, it should rectify itself in the weeks after the delivery. This can occur regardless of the type of delivery. Some of us unfortunately experience a significant distortion in the midline fascia (connective tissue) that the abdominal muscles attach to. It can be visually bothersome, but it also has implications for stability in the lumbar spine. Having a pelvic floor physio assess for, and measure any DRA is the first step in treating the problem. Up to 5cm of DRA can definitely be improved with targeted exercises. A larger DRA will likely require surgery (Abdominoplasty) to correct. But those same targeted exercises are also incredibly helpful in rehab, once your surgeon gives the OK to start.
Managing Mastitis: Tips and Treatments
Mastitis. The thing that no breastfeeding mum ever wants to deal with. It can range from an uncomfortable blockage in the milk ducts, to a frank infection with fever and flu-like symptoms. Being unwell is the last thing we need with a brand new baby. The good news is there is growing evidence to support the use of Therapeutic Ultrasound to alleviate blocked milk ducts. Other strategies that can help include lymphatic drainage massage over the breast and axillary region, and specialised taping to encourage healthy milk flow and limit lymphatic congestion. So if you’re starting to feel blocked up, are getting that telltale red patch on the breast or have already seen your doctor for medication, make an appointment with a Pelvic Floor Physio who is able to provide Therapeutic Ultrasound.
The Physiotherapists who treat pelvic floor disorders are extensively trained in some intimate assessment and treatment techniques. This means we are extremely mindful of the vulnerable position our patients agree to be in. So it's a service we provide with compassion, empathy and a deep respect for our patients’ dignity, and we strive to ensure they feel safe, comfortable and respected at all times.
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