PT PRAXIS® dedicates a significant portion of its services to women’s health. The M.A.M.A. and Pelvic Floor Act programs offer a range of preventive care services for women before pregnancy, during pregnancy, and postpartum. The Pelvic Floor Act program also address potential Pelvic Floor dysfunctions related to pregnancy and provides solutions if prevention has not been successful.
Many pregnant women come to us with questions and concerns about the changes they observe in their bodies. If left unaddressed, these changes could potentially pose problems for their health in the future.
Why should I visit you during pregnancy?
To address three key musculoskeletal changes caused by pregnancy:
- Postural changes
- Diastasis rectus abdominis
- Potential Pelvic Floor dysfunction
Additionally, the specialists at PT PRAXIS® can educate you about the changes your body may experience after pregnancy, the dos and don’ts of exercising during and after pregnancy, and suggest ways to prevent or address any dysfunctions you might encounter.
When should I visit you?
After completing the 12th to 14th week of pregnancy. This ensures the pregnancy is progressing well, and the mother-to-be can safely incorporate new health services like those offered by PT PRAXIS®. We recommend waiting until after the first trimester, even if some women insist on scheduling earlier.
When can I visit you postpartum?
You can visit us 6 weeks after delivery (vaginal or cesarean). Pelvic Floor dysfunctions can occur regardless of the type of delivery.
When and how can I return to my pre-pregnancy exercise routine or start exercising for the first time?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Each woman has unique needs and requires a personalized evaluation to determine the timing, type, and approach to safely reintroduce or begin an exercise program.
During pregnancy, will I need an internal vaginal or rectal examination? I wasn’t aware that physiotherapists perform this.
Yes, Pelvic Floor physiotherapists are qualified to perform internal vaginal or rectal examinations to assess the Pelvic Floor and identify possible dysfunctions, such as urinary or fecal incontinence. This process is completely safe for the fetus and does not negatively impact the pregnancy.
Additionally, Pelvic Floor physiotherapists use techniques like perineal palpation to guide women effectively during their pregnancy in performing Pelvic Floor exercises (e.g., Kegel exercises).
