Why You Should Start Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy—Not Just Postpartum
When most people think of pelvic floor therapy, they often associate it with postpartum recovery. While pelvic floor therapy is crucial after childbirth, waiting until after delivery to address pelvic health concerns means missing out on the benefits it can offer during pregnancy. Starting pelvic floor therapy while you’re still expecting can help you prepare for labor, reduce discomfort, and set the foundation for a smoother recovery.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor’s Role in Pregnancy
Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports your bladder, uterus, and bowels. During pregnancy, these muscles undergo increased strain as they support the growing baby, which can lead to discomfort, incontinence, and even pain. Many assume these symptoms are just a normal part of pregnancy, but with the right approach, they can often be managed or even prevented.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy During Pregnancy
1. Prepares Your Body for Labor and Delivery
A strong yet flexible pelvic floor can make a significant difference during childbirth. Learning how to coordinate your pelvic floor muscles can aid in pushing effectively and potentially reduce the risk of perineal tearing.
2. Reduces Common Pregnancy Discomforts
Pelvic floor therapy can address issues like lower back pain, pelvic pain, and sciatica by ensuring proper muscle engagement and balance. Many of these discomforts stem from compensatory movement patterns, which therapy can help correct.
3. Helps Prevent Urinary Incontinence
Leakage during pregnancy isn’t inevitable. Strengthening and learning to relax your pelvic floor muscles properly can help control bladder function and reduce incontinence both during and after pregnancy.
4. Promotes Postpartum Recovery
The work you put into your pelvic health during pregnancy can set you up for an easier recovery after birth. Engaging in therapy before delivery can make it easier to reconnect with and rehab these muscles postpartum.
When to Start Pelvic Floor Therapy
You can begin pelvic floor therapy at any stage of pregnancy, but the earlier, the better. A pelvic floor specialist can assess your specific needs and tailor a plan that evolves as your pregnancy progresses.
What to Expect in a Session
A pelvic floor therapist will typically assess your posture, core strength, and pelvic muscle function. Sessions may include guided exercises, breathwork, and manual therapy techniques to improve mobility and coordination. You’ll also learn how to properly engage and relax your pelvic floor—a key component of a smoother labor and delivery.
Take Charge of Your Pelvic Health
Pregnancy places unique demands on your body, but that doesn’t mean you have to endure unnecessary discomfort. Investing in pelvic floor therapy before giving birth can empower you with the tools to support your body through pregnancy, labor, and recovery. Instead of waiting until after delivery to seek help, consider prioritizing your pelvic health now—you’ll thank yourself later.
Evolv Physical Therapy & Performance is here to support you at every stage of your pregnancy journey.
