Nurturing Your Pregnancy Journey: The Benefits of Prenatal Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Welcoming new life into the world is a magical experience, but let's be real – pregnancy can bring its fair share of discomforts and challenges. From pelvic pain to urinary issues, the changes in your body during pregnancy can leave you feeling less than comfortable. That's where prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy is your trusted ally, offering support and relief throughout your pregnancy journey.
Why Consider Prenatal Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on strengthening or releasing the pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy. These sessions are designed to address common issues like pelvic pain, back pain, discomfort with intercourse, urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse, providing much-needed relief and comfort. It is also a great way to learn more about your body. But why should you consider prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy during pregnancy? Here are a few reasons:
Preparation for Childbirth: Connecting with these muscles during pregnancy can help you use them effectively during birth. You may think it's helpful to have super strong pelvic floor muscles, but as any pelvic floor PT will tell you, being able to relax those muscles is just as, if not more, important.
Reduced Discomfort: Many individuals experience pelvic pain and back pain during pregnancy, and pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate these symptoms
Postpartum Recovery: Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles during pregnancy can also aid in postpartum recovery, helping you get back to doing the things you want to do safely after childbirth.
Improved Quality of Life: Pelvic floor therapy can help reduce urinary incontinence, hemorrhoids, feelings of heaviness, pelvic organ prolapse, pain during intercourse, and more during pregnancy and after childbirth, improving your quality of life.
What to Expect During a Session
Are you curious about what happens during a prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy session? Here's a sneak peek:
Assessment: Your therapist will start by assessing your pelvic floor muscles to understand their strength and any areas of weakness. Your therapist may use an internal exam where, with your consent, they inset gloved fingers to feel for spots of tension or pressure within the body. Some care providers only use external exams and look at body biomechanics to diagnose problem areas. Be sure to ask how they will assess and be sure to communicate your needs.
Treatment: Based on the assessment, your therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan that may include exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques.
Education: You'll also receive education on proper pelvic floor function and techniques to maintain pelvic health during pregnancy and beyond.
Follow-Up: Prenatal pelvic floor therapy is typically delivered over a series of sessions, allowing your therapist to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
How to Find a Prenatal Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Provider in Vermont
Finding a prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy provider near you is easier. You start by searching Vermont Birth Network's pelvic floor physical therapist providers to find providers who specialize in working with pregnant (and postpartum) folks. You can also ask your healthcare providers for recommendations and invite friends who have used a pelvic floor physical therapist. You can also search the Pelvic Rehab directory, though it is not specific to prenatal services, it will help you find a provider outside of Vermont. Finally, once you've identified potential providers, please schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and ensure you feel comfortable with the therapist and their approach.
Insurance Coverage and Cost
You might be wondering about the cost of prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy and whether it's covered by insurance. While coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and plan, many insurance plans cover some or all of the cost of pelvic floor therapy. It's always a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket expenses.
Conclusion
Prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy offers a host of benefits for individuals during pregnancy, from reducing discomfort to preparing for childbirth and postpartum recovery. By addressing common issues like pelvic pain and urinary incontinence, pelvic floor therapy can help you feel more comfortable and confident throughout your pregnancy journey.
If you're considering prenatal pelvic floor physical therapy, don't hesitate to contact a qualified provider near you. With personalized treatment plans and expert guidance, pelvic floor therapy can be valuable in supporting your overall health and well-being during pregnancy and beyond.
