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Optimizing Pelvic Health Postpartum


Black woman lounges on the couch holding black baby who is staring at camera

Welcoming a new life into the world is a remarkable experience, but it also marks the beginning of a transformative postpartum journey. After childbirth, your body undergoes significant changes, particularly in the pelvic area. Nurturing and optimizing your pelvic health during this period is crucial for a smooth recovery and overall well-being. Pelvic floor therapy plays a pivotal role in supporting postpartum women, helping them heal, strengthen, and regain confidence in their bodies.


Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Health: Postpartum pelvic health encompasses the physical, emotional, and physiological changes that occur in the pelvic area after childbirth. Common postpartum pelvic issues may include pelvic pain, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and diastasis recti. Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on addressing these concerns, offering tailored treatments to help women recover and regain pelvic strength.


The Role of Pelvic Floor Therapy in Postpartum Care:

  1. Assessment and Evaluation: A skilled pelvic floor therapist conducts a comprehensive assessment to identify any pelvic floor dysfunctions or imbalances. This evaluation helps create a personalized treatment plan based on individual needs.

  2. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Pelvic floor therapy includes targeted exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder control and core stability. These exercises aid in restoring pelvic strength, especially crucial after the strain of childbirth.

  3. Diastasis Recti Management: Pelvic floor therapy addresses diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles, through specific exercises and techniques to promote proper healing and alignment.

  4. Pelvic Organ Prolapse Support: For women experiencing pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic floor therapy offers strategies to manage symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and improve pelvic organ support.

  5. Scar Tissue Management: For those who underwent cesarean sections or episiotomies, pelvic floor therapy can address scar tissue management and promote tissue healing.

  6. Core Strengthening: Pelvic floor therapy incorporates safe and effective core strengthening exercises, essential for postpartum recovery and overall well-being.

Practical Tips to Enhance Postpartum Pelvic Health:

  1. Begin Pelvic Floor Exercises Early: Initiate pelvic floor exercises soon after childbirth to promote healing and restore pelvic strength gradually.

  2. Practice Mindful Movement: Be conscious of your body mechanics and posture during daily activities to reduce strain on the pelvic area.

  3. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Adequate hydration and a balanced diet promote tissue healing and overall well-being.

  4. Seek Professional Guidance: Consult a pelvic floor therapist for personalized care and guidance based on your postpartum needs and concerns.

Optimizing pelvic health postpartum is essential for a smoother recovery and improved well-being. Pelvic floor therapy plays a vital role in supporting postpartum women, offering personalized treatments to address pelvic floor dysfunctions and enhance overall pelvic health.


(Note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and care during the postpartum period.)

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About Michelle

Michelle is a Doctor of Physical Therapy at Webb Physical Therapy, located in Lawrence, Kansas.  She's worked in PT for close to 10 years, and believes each patient should be treated with a holistic, whole person approach to healing.

She is devoted to helping her patients develop individualized treatment plans to help them achieve their specific goals.

Call (785) 813-1338 for a free 15 minute phone consultation, or email WebbPelvicHealth@gmail.com

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