Research has shown that prenatal physiotherapy sessions can reduce the risk of urinary incontinence and other pelvic floor disorders. It is also well documented that education in pregnancy can reduce trauma associated with birth and postnatal recovery.
Women’s Health physiotherapists have additional training to assess, diagnose and treat conditions that are unique to pregnancy. They are trained in internal and external vaginal exams to check the function of the muscles and organs within the pelvic area as well as bladder, bowel and sexual function screening. Vaginal exams are completely optional, your physiotherapist can tell a lot about your pelvic floor from asking you questions. Conditions that can be managed by women’s health physiotherapy in pregnancy are:
- Back and pelvic pain
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Carpal tunnel and tenosynovitis (aka mummy’s thumb)
- Diastasis Recti (abdominal separation)
- Participation in exercise during pregnancy
What does a prenatal physiotherapy appointment look like?
Our physiotherapists are community based meaning we come to you, alternatively we have a clinic at Tweed Super Clinic if you’d prefer. Your physiotherapist will start by taking a history of your pregnancy and any relevant medical conditions. They will discuss your goals for pregnancy (e.g. continuing exercise or occupations, managing concerns), your goals for delivery and postnatal recovery and complete a physical assessment of your full body and pelvic floor. If there is anything that comes up in the history taking or physical exam your physiotherapist will work with you to create a treatment plan based on your individual needs. This treatment may be with regular physiotherapy or a home program you can complete independently. Each mum to be will receive a “mum pack” with nappies, wipes, nappy cream and more!
We’d love to assist you in your Prenatal journey, contact the Bump Fitness Team today!