Your Healthy Pelvic Floor

Why is it important to support my pelvic floor health through pregnancy and postpartum recovery?

This Month We are Focusing on Pelvic Health Support for Motherhood’s Transitions.

In December, I am teaming up with Jeanice from “My Pelvic Floor Muscles” and 30 other creators on Instagram for a huge holiday giveaway with over $5000 in pelvic floor health-related prizes. To enter the contest, follow this link to submit the contact form, here.

At the bottom of this article, you will find 2, FREE pelvic floor practices and a BIG discount code to redeem my online course, “YOUR Empowered Pregnancy & Birth” with pelvic health support for pregnancy, birth, and postpartum recovery.

Pelvic floor support during pregnancy is crucial for several reasons, as the pelvic floor muscles play a significant role in providing stability, maintaining organ function, and supporting the body's changing dynamics during this period. Here are key reasons highlighting the importance of pelvic floor support through pregnancy:

1. Support for your Growing Uterus:

   The pelvic floor provides essential support for the growing uterus during pregnancy. As the uterus expands to accommodate your developing baby, the pelvic floor muscles help bear the weight and maintain proper organ positioning.

2. Prevention of Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

   Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition where pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, may descend into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. Strengthening and supporting the pelvic floor can help reduce the risk of prolapse.

3. Prevention of Urinary Incontinence:

   Pregnancy can place increased pressure on the bladder, leading to stress urinary incontinence. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can help prevent or alleviate bladder leaking and urinary incontinence during and after pregnancy.

4. Preparation for Labor and Delivery:

   Awareness of your pelvic floor landscape is helpful during childbirth. Pelvic floor muscles and tissues need to separate and MOVE out of the way as your baby descends into the birth canal. Maintaining flexibility, mobility, and awareness of the pelvic floor can be beneficial during labor and delivery.

5. Reduction of Back and Body Pain:

   The pelvic floor is interconnected with the muscles of the lower back and abdomen. Adequate support of the pelvic floor can contribute to better postural alignment, potentially reducing back, hip, and pelvic pains associated with the changes in the body during pregnancy.

6. Improved Circulation:

   Proper pelvic floor function supports healthy blood circulation in the pelvic region. Improved circulation of the pelvic tissues can potentially reduce tearing and postpartum hemorrhage.

7. Prevention of Hemorrhoids:

   Hemorrhoids are common during pregnancy due to increased pressure on blood vessels in the pelvic area. Pelvic floor exercises and stretches can help alleviate this pressure and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.

8. Postpartum Recovery:

   Strengthening the pelvic floor during pregnancy can facilitate a smoother postpartum recovery. Strong pelvic floor muscles can aid in healing and reduce the risk of issues like incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse after childbirth.

9. Enhanced Sexual Function:

   Maintaining pelvic floor health can contribute to improved sexual function and satisfaction. Strong and flexible pelvic floor muscles are important for sexual responsiveness and comfort.

10. Psychological Well-being:

    Pelvic floor exercises, including relaxation techniques (guided meditation, breathing exercises), can promote overall well-being and reduce stress and anxiety associated with the physical changes of pregnancy.

It's important to note that while strengthening the pelvic floor is beneficial, maintaining a balance is key. We also want to include mobility practices that help our pelvic girdle function, stretches, breath work, and mindful awareness techniques. It is also important to note the mental health aspect of our pelvic floor. Sometimes, when we experience abuse or trauma of any kind (physical or emotional) it can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction. If you have experienced trauma, working with a Licensed Mental Health Therapist who specializes in prenatal and postpartum care can be beneficial. Some pregnant individuals may experience pelvic pain or tension, and in such cases, healthcare providers, such as a pelvic health therapist or Webster Chiropractor, can help you feel better.

Before starting any exercise program during pregnancy, including pelvic floor exercises, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the activities are safe and suitable for individual circumstances.

Meditation for Pelvic Floor Connection

Postpartum Yoga for Pelvic Floor

Thank you for being a part of the MamaShakti Prenatal Community. MamaShakti means Mama POWER!

Together, we are strong in motherhood.

Xoxo, Jessica