Myth: I only need to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist AFTER I’ve had my baby
Fact: Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy (PFPT) is useful before, during, and after pregnancy. During your pregnancy, PFPT can really help with relieving pelvic pain (such as groin pain, low back pain, hip pain, etc), and can address any issues with incontinence or “dribbling” that you may be experiencing. In addition, starting pelvic floor physio during pregnancy can assist with relaxing your pelvic floor, and preparing you for birth, including getting personalized tips on pushing during labour.
Myth: I had a C-Section, so I don’t need pelvic floor physio
Fact: The very act of being pregnant compromises the pelvic floor. The extra weight of a baby, placenta, uterus, and all that fluid will put any pelvic floor under strain. In fact, some studies have shown that mamas who have had c-sections have more prolonged pelvic pain than those that had vaginal births. PFPT is beneficial postpartum, no matter how you birth your baby.
Myth: I’m leaking a little, so I just need to do more kegels
Fact: Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Kegels, when done properly, *may* be appropriate for some women after baby is born. During labour and delivery, the goal is to relax the pelvic floor, not to tighten it up. Properly done Kegels may strengthen the pelvic floor, however, the fact is that during pregnancy many women have a pelvic floor that is too tight, which is exactly the opposite of what we want during birth.
Myth: I heard that pelvic floor physio is an internal treatment. Will it hurt?
Fact: The assessment and treatment will usually involve an internal component. The pelvic floor are internal muscles, and thus require an internal exam to properly assess and treat. Much like any other manual therapy, there might be parts of the treatment that are a bit uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful and should leave you feeling better afterward. In addition to the internal treatment, you will likely be assigned some at-home exercises and stretching homework.
Myth: Pelvic physio must be expensive! Is it covered?
Fact: Pelvic physio is covered by most insurance plans, as it is billed as regular physiotherapy. We work with insurers to direct bill on behalf of our patients whenever possible.
To find out more or meet our pelvic floor physio, simply give us a call or book an appointment today.
Let us help you feel better.
So you can be at your best.
