Pregnancy is a beautiful and amazing experience, but it also brings about numerous physical changes to the body. This does not mean that all of the changes are bad, but you have to adapt your lifestyle to all the changes that do come.
One of the most significant adaptations that must be made is to the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles are responsible for supporting your bladder and uterus. They undergo stress as your baby grows, so it is important not to forget about them. Keep reading this blog to learn more about how pelvic floor physical therapy can keep your body healthy in pregnancy.
What is Pelvic Floor PT?
Pelvic floor PT is a specialized type of physical therapy that focuses solely on the muscles and tissues that support the pelvic floor organs. The pelvic floor consists of the bladder, uterus, rectum, and other organs.
When these muscles are weak or not functioning properly, it can cause issues within the pelvic floor that can heavily disrupt everyday life. This is where pelvic floor PT can assist and restore proper function to the pelvic floor.
Its Benefits During Pregnancy
- Keeps You Strong But Safe
During pelvic floor PT, physical therapists will give you insights on ways you can stay healthy while being safe. This can include sleeping positions, lifting techniques, and exercises to maintain a strong core.
It’s important to engage your pelvic floor and core muscles correctly, especially during pregnancy. Pelvic floor physical therapists can guide you through specific exercises and frequency to ensure you are doing them safely while still being effective.
- Reduced Pain and Other Common Pregnancy Symptoms
Pregnancy can come with a lot of body pain, especially back and hip pain. Exercises targeted toward the pelvic floor are a natural way to relieve this pain without medication. Another common symptom of pregnancy is urinary leaks. Staying consistent with pelvic floor PT can strengthen the muscles that usually cause this problem when they are too weak.
- Smoother Labor and Delivery
Pelvic floor PT is a great way to prepare your body for birth. During it, you can prepare your body through proper breathing techniques that will help you relax and push more effectively. Keeping your pelvic floor and hips mobile can also help the baby move into an optimal position, making delivery easier and potentially with fewer complications.
When to Start
You can start pelvic floor PT at any point in your pregnancy, but it’s better to start as early on as possible. This can help your body through the transition from starting to grow a baby until delivery. Find a physical therapist Idaho Falls who is qualified and knowledgeable about this type of therapy.
Conclusion
In many ways, pelvic floor physical therapy can be beneficial during pregnancy. By reducing unwanted pain, helping you stay strong, and providing support during birth, you can continue to stay safe and healthy for you and your baby.
