What is a pelvic floor physical therapist? What is a women’s health physical therapist? More importantly how can you benefit from seeing one?
Pregnancy
A women’s health physical therapist is a specially trained doctor of physical therapy that cares for women during and after pregnancy. Women go through such an amazing transformation during pregnancy! However, many of these transformations can also cause women to have some challenging symptoms such as back pain, pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, and difficulty exercising. These are all things that can be treated safely for mom and baby.
Women should get 150 minutes per week of exercise throughout pregnancy. This helps keep mom and baby healthy while also preparing for the marathon of labor and delivery. If you are struggling with pelvic pain or back pain this can be a challenge to do, that’s where we come in.
Personally, I saw too many of my friends be told by providers that their symptoms were normal or there was nothing that could be done to help them. Nothing could be further from the truth! I have a passion for helping moms stay healthy and happy during pregnancy. After having two unmedicated births, I see the value in having a great birthing support team and love to offer that support to other women.
Postpartum
Welcoming a new baby into the world is such a special time for families. Postpartum can also be a challenging time for new moms and recovery is different for every woman. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that women be seen by a pelvic floor physical therapist 6-12 weeks postpartum. We can screen for diastasis recti, pelvic floor dysfunction, and prolapse. We help guide women when to safely return to exercise and when to have sexual intercourse (without pain!). Many moms also struggle with having neck and back pain related to nursing and caring for their new babies. It’s important to address these symptoms and know that while they can be common they are not normal and there is help!
Next Steps
Consider how you will have the safest and healthiest pregnancy possible. Even if you are not pregnant yet but are considering another pregnancy, it is important to address pelvic floor dysfunction and core strength issues prior to another pregnancy.
Visit us at taylorptandwellness.com or call at (336) 310-5038 to chat about how we can help you.
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