Bringing a new life into the world is a beautiful experience, but it comes with its own set of physical challenges. Most new moms are diligent about their six-week postpartum visit to their OB-GYN, but did you know that this visit alone may not be enough for a full recovery? While your OB can be essential for monitoring your general health and ensuring your body is healing as expected, they typically don’t have the time or expertise to address many of the specific physical and functional issues that arise after childbirth. This is where a pelvic floor physical therapist (PT) comes in.
Here’s why seeing a pelvic floor PT postpartum is just as crucial as your OB-GYN checkup:
1. C-Section and Perineal Scar Management
After childbirth, whether via C-section or vaginal delivery, scar tissue can form, leading to discomfort, restricted movement, or even chronic pain. OB-GYNs may check your scars for infection, but they often don’t offer guidance on how to properly manage them. A pelvic floor PT can help you:
- Learn gentle scar massage techniques to promote healing.
- Improve tissue flexibility and mobility.
- Reduce pain and discomfort associated with scar tissue.
2. Nutrition Guidance for Healing
Your body undergoes significant changes during pregnancy and childbirth, and proper nutrition is key to recovery. Unfortunately, OB-GYNs may not delve into how your diet can impact your healing process. A pelvic floor PT can work with you to:
- Understand the nutrients that are crucial for tissue repair and energy.
- Tailor a diet that supports postpartum recovery and lactation (if applicable).
- Provide tips on maintaining hydration and managing digestive health, which can be affected postpartum.
3. Safe and Effective Exercise
Returning to exercise postpartum is not a one-size-fits-all process, and it can be tricky to navigate without proper guidance. OB-GYNs might give you a general green light to start exercising again, but they often don’t provide specific recommendations. A pelvic floor PT will:
- Assess your pelvic floor and core strength to create a personalized exercise plan.
- Teach you how to engage your core correctly to prevent injury and promote healing.
- Help you gradually rebuild strength and endurance in a safe and effective way.
4. Resuming Penetrative Intercourse
The thought of resuming sexual activity can be daunting for many new moms, especially if you’ve experienced significant tearing, episiotomy, or a C-section. Your OB-GYN might clear you for intercourse at your six-week checkup, but this is also not a one-size-fits-all recommendation. A pelvic floor PT can:
- Help you understand your body’s readiness for intercourse.
- Provide techniques to reduce pain and discomfort during sex.
- Address any anxiety or emotional concerns related to intimacy postpartum.
- Determine the best lubrication for you and your body: Having a healthy lubrication choice is important for reducing friction and improving comfort during intercourse. Choose something that is paraben-free, sulfate-free, glycerine-free. I like Coconu, Good Clean Love, and AloeCadabra.
5. Comprehensive Postpartum Care
Pelvic floor PTs specialize in the rehabilitation of the entire pelvic region. They consider the interconnectedness of your body, providing holistic care that goes beyond what an OB-GYN typically offers. This includes:
Tailored strategies for managing incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.
Education on posture and body mechanics to reduce strain on your healing body.
Support in addressing diastasis recti (ab separation) and restoring core function.
Your Body Deserves Comprehensive Care
Seeing your OB-GYN postpartum is an important step, but it shouldn’t be the only one you take. Pelvic floor physical therapy is an essential, yet often overlooked, component of postpartum recovery. By working with a pelvic floor PT, you can ensure that your body heals fully and that you regain your strength, confidence, and comfort. Don’t settle for just being “cleared” — give your body the comprehensive care it deserves.