Physio Advice – Enhancing Your Postpartum Recovery
Welcoming a new life into the world is an extraordinary experience, but it can take a toll on your body, particularly your pelvic floor and perineum. Many new mothers are eager to bounce back after childbirth, but it’s very much worthwhile focussing on recovery and healing first. In this podcast episode, we will discuss proactive measures to heal your pelvic floor after giving birth, promoting a smooth recovery and helping to prevent post-birth issues.
Tips for Healing Your Pelvic Floor Post-Birth
Recovering from childbirth necessitates careful attention and a proactive approach. Here are the key tips to help you heal your pelvic floor and perineum after giving birth:
Pain Relief
Childbirth can be painful, and adequate pain relief is essential for a smoother recovery. Consult your healthcare team to ensure you are receiving the right pain management options.
Protect
Your pelvic floor undergoes significant stretching during vaginal birth. To aid its natural recoil and healing, protect it by avoiding straining, especially during bowel movements. Consider stool softeners if necessary. If you have a cough, chat with your healthcare team, as coughing also adds a lot of strain to the pelvic floor area.
Rest
Rest, or more specifically, horizontal rest, is supportive for the early days and weeks after childbirth. Lying down for short bursts can relieve pressure on your pelvic floor. Resting while breastfeeding or during the day can be helpful for pain relief and healing.
Ice
Perineal discomfort is common after childbirth. Using ice packs, (like our sponsor’s BodyIce perineal ice packs, can provide much-needed relief). Change ice packs with every pad change for maximum comfort.
Compression
Using pads or postpartum recovery shorts can provide some gentle compression to the perineal area, helping with comfort and support. Alongside this, perform gentle pelvic floor lifts to improve circulation and promote healing. Chat with your healthcare team to see if compression is suitable for your situation.
Elevation
Elevation may not be needed for everyone, but some find relief by placing pillows under their pelvis while resting, or at the very least, lying horizontally. It’s a personal preference, but it can be helpful in relieving pressure.
Pelvic Floor Exercises (The Knack)
The “knack” is a brief pelvic floor lift you perform before coughing, sneezing, or lifting. It can help support your pelvic floor from sudden strain and is a valuable part of your post-birth recovery routine.
Postnatal Rehab
One of the most effective ways to ensure your pelvic floor and body recover properly after childbirth is through a postnatal rehab program, and FitNest Postpartum Pilates Online can help with this. These programs offer convenient online workouts and physio support to help you regain your strength and overall well-being.
Taking proactive steps to heal your pelvic floor after giving birth is crucial for a smoother recovery. Utilising the PRICE principle (Pain relief, Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and incorporating pelvic floor exercises like “the knack” can significantly contribute to your post-birth well-being.
Additionally, postnatal rehab programs can be a game-changer in helping you regain your strength and fitness. Remember, your health and recovery should be a top priority as you embark on this incredible journey of motherhood.
** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition.
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Episode Links
Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist
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