Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists & Doulas: A Dynamic Duo!
What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
We work with anything you can pretty much think of “down there”! As Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists, we specialize in rehabilitation for the pelvic floor. A group of muscles that are important for bladder, bowel, sexual function, and overall support! However, it is SO much more than that! Pelvic Floor Therapy should always consist of a full-body approach with a head-to-toe assessment. No matter if you are having symptoms, coming in for labor and delivery prep, or postpartum care! We will always look at your posture, how you move and function, how you breathe, how your core is functioning, what your hip, ankle, low back, and mid-back mobility look like, and then may likely dive into your feet and jaw! We want to see the BIG picture to optimize your prenatal and postpartum journey because as you may know it is not JUST your pelvic floor that changes with pregnancy.
What might you see a pelvic floor therapist for?
Urinary leakage of any kind
Fecal Leakage, Constipation, or Recurring Hemorrhoids
Pain with the intimacy of any kind
Diastasis Recti Prenatally or Postpartum
Pelvic Pain of any kind prenatal or postpartum
Recurring Low Back or Hip Pain
Labor and Delivery Prep
Any form of postpartum care for vaginal and cesarean deliveries!
We truly believe that Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (PFPT) SHOULD be a standard of care for ALL postpartum mamas!
So, A question that I hear a ton from the birth community and our clients is….
If I am seeing you, do I still need a doula? And the answer is ABSOFREAKINLUTELY!!
Your PFPT will be able to support you from a musculoskeletal standpoint to optimize your prenatal journey, labor, and delivery with a focus on breathing techniques, positioning, and perineal care to decrease your risk for tearing, and of course, postpartum recovery!
We will NOT be with you during your birth process which is the MOST important part of your journey! That is where your doula will come in to continue to support you and your family and advocate for YOU to meet your birth intentions!
PFPT and doulas work together as part of your birth team. Your doula will likely be the first person you confide in both prenatally or postpartum if any issues arise since you have built that trust together!
That is why it is important for PFPT’s and doulas to work together to provide you with the utmost care and support for your body, baby and your family!
By: Dr. Kate Smith, Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist
The HOPE Doctors
