Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: The Key to a Smooth Pregnancy & Labour

Understanding Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy designed to assess and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis, supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the increased weight of the growing baby can put additional strain on these muscles, leading to various issues like incontinence, pelvic pain, and even prolapse.

Prenatal Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

1. Alleviates Discomfort: As the baby grows, the increased pressure on the pelvic floor can lead to pain and discomfort. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help release tension and provide techniques to ease discomfort, ensuring a more enjoyable pregnancy.
2. Prevents Incontinence: Pregnancy can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, potentially leading to bladder or bowel incontinence. Pelvic floor exercises and physiotherapy can significantly reduce the risk of these issues by strengthening the muscles responsible for controlling urinary and fecal function.
3. Promotes Optimal Baby Positioning: Proper alignment of the pelvis is crucial for the baby's positioning in the womb. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help ensure the pelvis is balanced and provide exercises that encourage the baby to adopt the optimal position for labour and delivery.
4. Prepares for Labour: As the due date approaches, preparing the pelvic floor for labour becomes vital. A trained physiotherapist can teach relaxation and breathing techniques, helping you become more attuned to your body during contractions and easing the birthing process.
5. Reduces Risk of Tears and Episiotomies: By strengthening and stretching the pelvic floor muscles, the risk of tears during delivery can be reduced. Additionally, improved muscle tone may lower the likelihood of an episiotomy, a surgical cut made during childbirth.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy During Labour

• Enhanced Pelvic Floor Control: One of the most crucial aspects of pelvic floor physiotherapy during labour is learning how to engage and relax the pelvic floor muscles effectively. This control aids in managing contractions and prevents unnecessary tension in the pelvic region.
• Reduced Labour Pain: Through deep breathing and relaxation techniques taught during physiotherapy, labour pain can be managed more effectively. Women can feel more in control and empowered during this intense process.
• Facilitates Progression of Labour: An unrestricted and well-conditioned pelvic floor can facilitate the progression of labour. The ability to relax and open up during contractions allows for smoother and more efficient labour.
• Minimizes Risk of Injury: By encouraging proper positioning and pelvic alignment during labour, pelvic floor physiotherapy reduces the risk of injury to both the mother and the baby.
• Speeds Up Postpartum Recovery: After childbirth, the pelvic floor physiotherapy continues to be beneficial. Strengthening exercises can expedite postpartum recovery, promoting healing and restoring pelvic floor function.