Episode 12: Preparing your Pelvic Floor for Birth
In this episode, you’ll hear Whitney and I discuss:
What is the pelvic floor? Why is it so important?
Group of muscles at the bottom of the pelvis that is like hammock
They close all of our openings so we aren’t leaking
They support organs (and a baby.)
They have sexual functions, and they help with climax.
They attach to the pelvis and provide stability and prevent pain
What can we do during pregnancy to prepare our pelvic floor?
You can see a pelvic health therapist during pregnancy.
You can check on the tone and strength of your pelvic muscles.
You should see a pelvic therapist if you have pain, instability, or leaking.
How can a pelvic floor physical therapist use biofeedback?
A pelvic floor PT can see how much nerve activity occurs in different positions.
This can help you choose positions in which your nerves are more relaxed.
This means you have a lower chance of tearing.
What positions might be best?
What position is best is very individualized.
In general, sitting and side-lying are good positions.
Most people have about two positions that work the best for them.
You can try kneeling, squatting, hands-and-knees, and other positions.
Other than biofeedback, how can we know what positions might feel right?
In earlier labor, you’ll need positions to get baby down, which might be the best for preventing tearing. This might be squatting or doing lunges.
We can also train our pelvic floor to relax in every position by practicing cues such as “imagine a flower blooming.”
We can also tune into our body with breathing exercises.
What do you wish people knew about the pelvic floor?
You don't have to live with symptoms. Our society has normalized things like painful sex or incontinence, but a pelvic floor PT can heal your pelvic floor.
Also, the pelvic floor is a part of your core and its stability.
When are ideal times to visit a pelvic floor PT?
Once or twice during pregnancy for internal work and biofeedback / labor preparation
For postpartum, a visit around the six week mark is best.
How can we prevent tearing during birth?
Find positions that are best for our body
Consciously relaxing pelvic floor
Giving flexibility to muscles through perineal massage
How can we access pelvic floor physical therapy?
Some states, like California, are direct access, so a birthing person could go directly to a pelvic floor PT.
HMOs might have a hard time getting a visit covered, so it might be out of pocket.
You can check here.
What is your biggest tip for pregnancy and birth?
Take time to prepare for your dream birth. Learn about your options and make plans and back-up plans.
Learn about all of the choices that could be offered to you, not just the ones you want.
Where can people find you?
You can find Whitney on her Instagram or website
Enjoy the episode!
Whitney Sippl is board certified as a women’s clinical specialist. Whitney is passionate about pre/postnatal care and believes physical therapy services during pregnancy and after delivery should be standard of care in the US, like it is in other countries. She is devoted to promoting awareness, well being, and healing of her patients with a goal of empowering women during the prenatal and postnatal periods to address any of their discomforts or concerns.
