You’ve had your baby, and things are going well and you are keen to get back into exercise…?
There is a lot of information out there about when you can resume exercise and what type of exercise you should do. It can get a little confusing!
The first 6 weeks are a great time to start working on your pelvic floor exercises. You can read more about this in my blog “Exercise After Baby“.
Then once you are feeling like yourself again, and would like to do a bit more or start shifting any extra weight gained during the pregnancy, it is highly recommended you have a one-off Post-Natal check up with a Women’s Health Physiotherapist.
This visit could be one of the most important preventative and helpful thing you ever do for your vagina and pelvic organs! Potentially preventing irreversible consequences of exercise in the early stages post-birth.
A Women’s Health Physio can help educate you on what the pelvic floor is, why it is so important and what to look for if things are going wrong!
What is a Post-Natal Women’s Health Check?
The Post-Natal Women’s Health Check starts with a comprehensive history about your pelvic floor function, bladder and bowel habits, sexual and obstetric background and any areas of pain (such as lower back pain, pubic symphysis pain or sacroiliac joint pain). In most cases, an internal vaginal examination is recommended. Although not always required, this can help us properly assess your pelvic floor function, areas of weakness and any degree of organ prolapse. In addition, we will assess if you have an abdominal separation.
Following the initial assessment we will then come up with the best management plan for you. This may involve a pelvic floor strengthening program, retraining of your bladder habits, relaxation and breathing techniques, and possible lifestyle changes. In some cases the use of specific pelvic floor equipment may be indicated (e.g. electrical stimulation unit or weighted pelvic floor training tools). We will also determine if any further input from other health professionals or onward referral is needed.
Is It Really Necessary?
Absolutely! We recommend all post-natal women to get a Post-Natal Women’s Health Check about 6 weeks post-natal or before you return to exercise. This ensures safe return to exercise and gives you the best possible recovery postpartum. If in doubt then please call us and we can chat about any concerns you may have.
Our Physio, Bonnie, specialises in Women’s Health issues. Book in today for your Post-Natal Women’s Health Check at Bend + Mend in Sydney’s CBD to help you avoid any long term continence or prolapse issues. We are located in Martin Place and Barangaroo – King Street Wharf.
