Are you experiencing postnatal discomfort? Your body is very different after childbirth. You may notice a pressure in your pelvic region, an uneasy sensation during sex or urinary dysfunction.
If any of these symptoms resonate with you, it’s time to approach a trusted clinic in Richmond Hill for pelvic floor physiotherapy.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Reclaim Your Body and Your Health
Women’s healthcare has seen some dramatic turns in the last decade or so, with pelvic floor therapy being just one of the many treatments that make your life easier after you give birth. Let’s explore exactly what it is and how you benefit even after a single session!
When you carry a baby for nine months and deliver that baby, your anatomy goes through some inevitable changes. You may notice that your muscles are weaker, and a painful throbbing that registers through your entire body.
Great news! You don’t have to live with this. When you get your pelvic floor back in peak condition, your muscles will coordinate better and the heaviness you’re currently witnessing in your pelvic region will be a thing of the past!
What does a pelvic floor physiotherapist do? A trained physiotherapist will first assess your medical profile, after which they devise a personalized treatment plan for your unique symptoms. As time goes by, your progress will be evaluated and changes made to the treatment plan so that you can enjoy a better therapeutic outcome.
Is Now the Right Time to Approach a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist?
You may be waiting for the “right” time to begin your physiotherapy sessions. If you’re wondering whether or not your current symptoms warrant a pelvic floor physiotherapist, we can help make your decision easier!
The question we get asked more often than not is; What are the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction? If you’re experiencing:
- Reduced control over your urinary and fecal functions
- Leaking when you laugh, cough or sneeze
- A frequent and urgent need to urinate
- Bowel discomfort that involves pain, constipation or strains
- Lower back aches
- A pressure in the pelvis, genitalia or rectal region
- Discomfort during sex
- Orgasm or stimulation issues
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Inflammatory or saggy breasts, mastitis or blocked ducts
- Pediatric incontinence
- Endometriosis, interstitial cystitis or prostatitis
- Bulging or scarring from a C-section
- then you can greatly benefit from a personalized pelvic floor treatment plan!
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor rehabilitation is popular for a good reason – it reaps so many amazing benefits for the patient and can be undertaken before and after childbirth. In fact, prevention is better than cure, so you need not wait until the above symptoms manifest. You can approach your physiotherapist at any time and ask that they devise a regime to keep your muscles in check.
So you’re no doubt questioning, “What exercises can I do to strengthen my pelvic floor?”
Kegels
This is when you contract and relax the muscles alternatively in your pelvic region. Especially if you’re experiencing leakage when you cough, sneeze, jump or laugh, Kegels are the ideal exercise. This is not only for women but for men as well. It strengthens the muscles and enables you to enhance your bladder performance and urine flow.
Squats
These will provide one of the largest payoffs as compared to any other exercise. Squats put the largest muscles into motion to solidify your form. Being one of the most fundamental exercises, they also elevate your resistance abilities.
Bridge
The pausing and pulsing motion of a bridge is what keeps your glutes in tip-top shape. When done right, this exercise strengthens the core of the pelvic floor area. Thus, any sexual discomfort that you experience will eventually be vetted from your system.
Split Tabletop
This move is rudimentary and acts as a foundation for several other exercises in Pilates. Being primarily a leg move, it activates your hips and pelvic floor muscles. This does a great deal to improve your stability and balance.
Bird Dog
This is a full-body exercise that engages several muscles all at once. Think of it as you re-training your muscles to communicate with your brain better and coordinate with each other. The moves help the pelvic floor muscles to respond more rapidly to stimuli.
IMPORTANT: It’s advisable to first consult with a trained and licensed physiotherapist before attempting any of these exercises. At least initially, you need a professional to supervise your moves and make sure you’re performing them properly.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy and Insurance
Perhaps one of the most important questions is; Is pelvic floor therapy covered by insurance?
Yes, it is! Although, depending on the terms of your insurance policy, the coverage may vary. Inquire as to whether or not you will need a referral from your doctor.
No More Pelvic Pain – It’s Time to Improve Your Quality of Life!
