What Every Mom-to-Be Should Know About Pelvic Floor Health

Becoming a mom is an incredible journey, especially for active women used to pushing their physical limits. While you're busy planning for your new arrival, there's one crucial aspect of your body that deserves dedicated attention: your pelvic floor. A healthy and strong pelvic floor is vital for a smoother pregnancy, an empowered birth, and a quicker, more complete return to the activities you love postpartum.

Why Pelvic Floor Health is Crucial During Pregnancy

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues that form a supportive hammock at the base of your pelvis. It supports your bladder, uterus, and bowels, playing a key role in continence, core stability, and sexual function.

During pregnancy, these muscles face immense changes from the increased weight of your growing baby, hormonal shifts that loosen ligaments, and an altered center of gravity. Understanding how these factors impact your pelvic floor is the first step in maintaining your strength, preventing common issues, and preparing your body for the incredible task of birth.

Common (But Not Normal) Pelvic Floor Symptoms in Pregnancy

Many women are told that certain symptoms are "just part of pregnancy," but that doesn't mean you have to accept them. While common, issues like these signal that your pelvic floor needs attention from a professional:

• Urinary Leakage: Leaking when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or jump is a sign of stress incontinence, and it's treatable.
• Pelvic Pain: Aching or sharp pain in your pubic bone, tailbone, or SI joints can be managed with proper care.
• Heaviness or Pressure: A persistent feeling of pressure or "falling out" in your vagina or rectum.
• Painful Intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity is not something you should have to endure.
• Constipation: Difficulty with bowel movements that requires excessive straining.

These symptoms indicate a dysfunction that pelvic floor physical therapy can effectively address. Proactive care can make a significant difference in your comfort and confidence.

How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Prepares You for Labor and Delivery

Think of pelvic floor physical therapy as training for the biggest athletic event of your life: childbirth. Our expert therapists can help you:

• Master Pushing Mechanics: Learn effective pushing strategies that work with your body to reduce the risk of tearing and optimize your baby's descent.
• Practice Relaxation Techniques: Discover how to consciously relax and lengthen your pelvic floor muscles, which is just as important as strengthening them for a smoother birth.
• Learn Optimal Birth Positions: Explore various positions that can facilitate a more comfortable and efficient labor.
• Coordinate Your Core and Pelvic Floor: Ensure these muscle groups work together to support you through the intense demands of labor, empowering you for an informed and confident birth experience.

Staying Active: How to Safely Exercise During Pregnancy

As an active woman, maintaining your fitness during pregnancy is important for both your physical and mental well-being. A pelvic floor physical therapist is key to guiding you through safe modifications and ensuring your exercise routine supports, rather than strains, your changing body.

We'll help you modify high impact movements, maintain core strength safely, and focus on proper breathing techniques to manage pressure, allowing you to stay strong and active throughout your pregnancy.

Setting Yourself Up for a Stronger Postpartum Recovery

The benefits of prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy extend long after your baby arrives. By preparing your body before birth, you are setting yourself up for:

• Faster Healing: A well prepared pelvic floor often experiences less trauma and recovers more efficiently.
• Reduced Postpartum Issues: Significantly lower your risk of incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and lingering pain.
• A Smoother Return to Exercise: Knowing your body's baseline and having expert guidance allows for a safe, progressive return to your pre-pregnancy fitness level, whether that's running, lifting, or CrossFit.

Prenatal physical therapy isn't just about the birth; it's an investment in your long term health and athletic performance as a new mom.

Your Pelvic Health Experts in Fort Worth

At Elevation Athletics in Fort Worth, we understand the unique needs of active and athletic women during pregnancy. Our specialized pelvic floor physical therapy services are designed to empower you through pregnancy, prepare you for birth, and guide you to a strong postpartum recovery.

We offer personalized, one-on-one care that is tailored to your specific goals. Don't let common myths dictate your experience. Take control of your pelvic health and ensure you are ready for the marathon of motherhood.

Ready to experience a more confident pregnancy and a stronger postpartum journey? Contact Elevation Athletics today to schedule your consultation for pelvic floor physical therapy in Fort Worth. We are here to support you every step of the way.