what to expect from a postpartum consultation
/In my opinion, all women should have at least one consultation with a pelvic health physical therapist after having a baby. No matter what the birth story, all women can benefit from physical support during this transitional time. After carrying a baby for 9 months and going through the delivery (vaginal or cesarean), women need help reconnecting with their bodies, healing from possible muscle strains or tears, returning to sex without pain and starting a movement practice safely. If you’re wondering what a session might address, it is usually all or a combination of the following:
Physical Assessment (alignment/strength/impairments)
Manual Therapy (to relieve any pain/dysfunction including cesarean scar mobility)
Diastasis Recti Assessment
Internal Pelvic Floor Assessment and Treatment (>6 weeks postpartum)
Body Mechanics with baby
Sexual Health/Guidance
Education & Answer Questions
Treatment Plan (education, manual support, home exercises and movement practices)
Most importantly, remember that feeling better is always an option. Having a baby is never a reason to accept not feeling good in your body. Reach out for support at any time….even years postpartum is still postpartum.
xo,
Allison