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Pelvic Health Physiotherapy In Pregnancy And Beyond

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy in Pregnancy and Beyond

Posted by on 17-09-2018

By: Jennifer Hunter BKin, BScPT

Did you know that over 70% of women experience pelvic floor complications as a result of childbirth, and about 10% of Canadians experience some form of incontinence? While this remains a taboo subject for many Canadians, pelvic floor physiotherapy is an effective, evidence-based treatment for pelvic pain and incontinence.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that attach to the front, back, and sides of the pelvic bone and sacrum; and assist with bladder, bowel and sexual function. They also have a very significant contribution in keeping our core strong and our backs healthy. However, many of us are unaware that these muscles exist and in turn, do very little to keep them healthy and use them appropriately.

Problems in your pelvic floor can happen when these muscles are either too tight or too weak. This can lead to issues including pelvic pain, incontinence, constipation, and difficulties with sexual intercourse. These symptoms are most commonly seen in women before and/or after pregnancy, and as we age. Many women feel that it is normal to experience these issues, and often just “grin and bear it.”

It is not normal to leak when you sneeze, laugh, or cough

It is not normal to have pain with intercourse

It is not normal to feel pressure, heaviness, or pain in your pelvic region

Physiotherapists with specialized training in pelvic floor rehabilitation are the first line of defence to help prevent and treat these issues. They are highly trained, sensitive professionals who will discuss all aspects of assessment and treatment with you thoroughly before proceeding.

During your initial examination, your therapist will take a full medical history and discuss your current issues. They will perform an assessment of the joints and muscles in the area. This may also include an internal exam to identify the affected tissues that may be contributing to the issue. After this, they will develop a plan of action to specifically address and treat your condition. This may include:

Manual (hands-on) therapy not only to the pelvic muscles but to nearby joints and muscles including the abdomen, trunk, back and hips

Connective tissue manipulation

Scar tissue mobilization

Myofascial release

Ongoing and inclusive education, including self-care tips

Relaxation and breathing training

Are you thinking about having a baby, or are currently pregnant? A consultation with a pelvic floor therapist can help lead you in the right direction to keep healthy and pain free during and after your pregnancy. If you're seeking expert care and personalized treatment options, consider visiting our clinic specializing in Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy in Toronto.

About the author: Jennifer Hunter is a physiotherapist who specializes in pelvic health. She has extensive post-graduate training from Pelvic Health Solutions for incontinence, prolapse, and pelvic pain, with a particular interest in pre- and postnatal care. After becoming a mom herself, she realized the importance of pelvic physiotherapy and is passionate about helping other women return to optimal health in a safe way. She is currently accepting patients at Trilogy Physiotherapy at 324 Prince Edward Dr. South, in the Kingsway. Our brand new clinic has quiet, private treatment rooms to put patients at ease when discussing sensitive issues. To find out more about Jennifer and our services, call Trilogy Physiotherapy at 416-232-2343 or email [email protected].

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Bryce Lee
Bryce Lee
13 September 2023
Adam was super. Always positive and very encouraging thru my rehab.
Marcello Sapienza
Marcello Sapienza
10 August 2023
Excellent service . I highly recommend this clinic. Teresa the receptionist is very helpful and nice . Adam is a knowledgeable physiotherapist. And Fatima is a very good acupuncturist .
Samantha Duncan
Samantha Duncan
25 July 2023
Excellent experience with Adam - thorough and very personable.
Kristin Patterson
Kristin Patterson
26 June 2023
Marshall was very helpful and professional and worked with me on a very painful knee injury. i began a few months ago barely able to bend it or walk up and down stairs and have improved greatly with his program. i am now able to run up and downstairs with no problems and am almost back to 100%. the receptionists are also accommodating and professional and were easily able to process insurance claims, answer questions, and reschedule appts when i was sick or something came up. i was very impressed by my experience here and would recommend it wholeheartedly to anyone looking for a new physio!
Adriano Trapani
Adriano Trapani
13 June 2023
Great experience. I had foot pain that wouldn’t go away so I came here and found so much assistance in regaining my mobility.
Kartik Uppal
Kartik Uppal
8 June 2023
Went to the Pape and Danforth clinic for a massage with Robert. Customer service from initial onset was with Therese. Was very patient with me when it came to form filling and billing. Robert was also extremely good at working on my pain points and being thorough with his explanations. Overall great massage, experience and education!
AD
AD
26 March 2023
Everyone at this clinic is very kind and professional- Would recommend!
Efficient Sense
Efficient Sense
7 January 2023
Trevor is great! He has guided me on my road to recovery. Staff is also friendly and knowledgeable. Nachi is also great!
Lucy Barron
Lucy Barron
5 December 2022
I would highly recommend the services of Trevor - he provided excellent care. I received a thorough assessment and a clear treatment plan. Trevor is knowledgeable, friendly and is a good communicator. The office is well-equipped and Mina at the front desk was always very welcoming.
Sabrina Oliver
Sabrina Oliver
15 November 2022
I have seen Trevor for several different problems over the years and he has always done an amazing job helping me with my recovery. He is knowledgeable in many areas and always happy to answer questions and explain what he is doing. He is thorough with assessment and treatment so you always feel like you are in good hands. He is also very honest and won't push you to keep coming if he doesn't feel you need it. Mina at the front desk is really welcoming and the clinic is very clean and comfortable. Overall a great physio experience and would highly recommend to anyone!