Written for Doulas of Utah by Dr. Kristina Hanson, DPT, Pelvic Health Physical Therapist at Uplift Pelvic Health and Wellness.
When I was pregnant with my first child, I did everything to prepare to give birth. I exercised, took birthing classes, and eagerly awaited my baby’s arrival. However, like so many new parents, I wasn’t prepared for the intense recovery that followed—especially when it came to my dire need for pelvic floor therapy after childbirth. Despite being a physical therapist, I was shocked at the toll childbirth took on my body. After hours of labor and leaving the hospital with a severe tear and pubic bone separation, all I had was a simple handout on Kegels. This minimal guidance was far from what I needed. Walking was painful, I dreaded every movement, and I felt disconnected from my core and body. The postpartum care I received simply didn’t offer the path to recovery I needed.
It wasn’t until after the birth of my second child that I heard about pelvic floor therapy—a service that was rare to find even as a therapist. Finally connecting with a pelvic floor therapist changed everything! For the first time, I had guidance, tools, and a real plan to heal and feel like myself again. Pelvic floor therapy after childbirth didn’t just help me heal physically; it gave me back my strength, confidence, and a sense of normalcy. No new parent should be left to navigate recovery alone, which is why pelvic floor therapy is vital for every postpartum journey. Here’s how it can help:
1. Prevent Long-Term Pelvic Issues through Pelvic Floor Therapy after Childbirth
Pelvic floor therapy after childbirth addresses common postpartum problems like incontinence, pelvic pain, and prolapse, preventing them from becoming chronic issues. By rebuilding strength and control, this therapy helps you regain stability and comfort in your body.
2. Strengthen Core and Stability
Therapy targets the pelvic floor, lower back, and abdominal muscles to rebuild core strength and improve stability, essential for safely returning to daily activities and caring for your baby.
3. Reduce Pain and Discomfort
While discomfort is often expected postpartum, constant pain doesn’t have to be the norm. Pelvic floor therapy alleviates pelvic pain, hip pain, and back discomfort, restoring ease to daily movements like walking, lifting, and sitting.
4. Enhance Sexual Health
Issues like painful intercourse are common but often untreated. Pelvic floor therapy restores muscle flexibility and function, making intimacy comfortable again.
5. Support Faster, Healthier Recovery
By offering a structured plan, pelvic floor therapy can speed up postpartum recovery, helping new parents reclaim their health and confidence.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, consider pelvic floor therapy after childbirth. This essential support can help you feel confident and empowered in your recovery journey. Don’t wait—many people wait years to address pelvic floor issues, but you can reclaim control and comfort now.
Curious if pelvic floor therapy could be the right step for you? Visit the website for Uplift Pelvic Health and Wellness to book a free discovery call and start your journey toward healing and strength.
Seeking additional postpartum support as you heal from childbirth and navigate your new life with your baby? Reach out to the postpartum doulas at Doulas of Utah for a free consultation.
