is normal in pregnancy. It occurs in almost all women.
● You have two ‘six pack’ or ‘rectus abdominus’ muscles that sit at the front of the abdominal wall that are joined by strong connective tissue. During pregnancy, it is this connective tissue or ‘linea alba’ that stretches and thins as the baby grows.
● The degree of separation and thinning of the linea alba varies between women and from pregnancy to pregnancy.
● Time is the biggest factor in return of your abdominal muscle function postpartum, however, individualised assessment, exercise and advice regarding supportwear can assist you to build strength and return to the activities you love.
Postpartum-related musculoskeletal conditions may include the following:
● Neck and thoracic pain.
● Back pain especially in the thoracic and rib region.
● Carpal tunnel syndrome (nerve entrapment in the wrist).
● De Quervain’s tenosynovitis – commonly known as mother’s thumb.
● Coccyx (tailbone) pain.
Pelvic floor dysfunction:
● The pelvic floor is a sling of muscles that connect the front of the pelvis to the back of the pelvis as well as between the sitting bones.
● This sling has the very important role of supporting the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus and bowel).
● Muscle function can change due to a number of reasons. These may include increased pressure from carrying a growing baby, hormonal changes and the type of birth you had.
● It can be common to experience a reduction in strength, endurance and coordination in your pelvic floor muscles. Some women notice changes in the sensation of their pelvic floor.
● There is strong evidence to support the input of Pelvic Health Physiotherapy in this space.
Bladder/bowel concerns:
● Women may also experience altered bladder and bowel habits.
● Some of these concerns may be reduced bladder sensation and voiding symptoms, increased urinary frequency or urgency, urinary incontinence, constipation, bowel incontinence or fecal urgency.
● These can be assessed by a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist and an appropriate, tailored management plan can be implemented.
● Your Physiotherapist will work alongside your primary healthcare provider to ensure you receive holistic care during your postpartum period.
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP):
● POP refers to the change in the position of the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus and bowel). This is due to laxity in the support structures such as the ligaments and muscles.
● Women will most commonly describe this as a vaginal bulge or pelvic pressure.
● In the first 6 weeks of postpartum, we recommend lots of horizontal rest to reduce the likelihood of a prolapse.
● Pelvic Health Physiotherapists can assess for prolapse and provide exercise, advice and lifestyle modifications to manage a prolapse.
Exercise:
● Exercise is encouraged during postpartum for physical recovery and mental health benefits.
● There are many things to consider when getting back into exercise. These may include exercise history, relevant pregnancy history, delivery details, method of feeding, abdominal and pelvic floor muscle function, general muscular strength, sleep patterns, nutrition and hydration.
● Your Physiotherapist takes all of these factors into account when creating a postpartum exercise program.
● Having an experienced Physiotherapist to help guide you and progress your program as suitable can help to prevent injuries, instil confidence and help you to function optimally each day.
Pre/ post natal exercise classes:
● Specifically designed pregnancy and postnatal pilates classes are an offering at Form & Practice. Instructed by Physiotherapists with qualifications in pelvic health and pregnancy exercise. Join our group Pilates classes where you can connect with like-minded women in a similar phase of life.
● Maintaining movement in the form of Pilates is a fantastic way to reduce aches and pains, reduce risk of pregnancy related complications such as gestational diabetes, prepare your body for birth, recover from birth and assist in returning to some of your postpartum goals.
● After your initial appointment with one of our Pelvic Health Physiotherapists, you can join our combined pre/post natal classes at either Mount Evelyn or Chirnside Park. Bubs are welcome!
Please be advised that at our Mount Evelyn clinic there are stairs to get to the studio so prams are not suitable, however there is plenty of room for capsules or mats on the floors next to the reformers.
Contact reception on 97362565 to enquire about our welcome packages and book in your first class.
Returning to running/ sport:
● Physiotherapists with a special interest in women’s health are well placed to take you through the return to running guidelines.
● Our guidelines are based on a well-documented research paper to ensure optimal efficacy and prevention of pelvic health concerns.