Pelvic Health and Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Need to Know

Pelvic Health and Pregnancy: What Expecting Mothers Need to Know

Pregnancy is an exciting time for many women, but it can also come with its fair share of aches, pains, and discomforts. One area that can be particularly affected during pregnancy is the pelvic region. As the baby grows and the body adapts to accommodate it, the muscles, ligaments, and joints in the pelvic area can become strained, leading to a variety of symptoms.

One of the most common issues that pregnant women may experience is pelvic girdle pain (PGP). PGP is a condition that affects the joints in the pelvic area, causing pain and discomfort in the lower back, hips, and pelvis. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be debilitating for some women. Other common symptoms of PGP include difficulty walking, difficulty standing for long periods, and difficulty sleeping.

Another issue that can arise during pregnancy is diastasis recti, which is a separation of the abdominal muscles. This can occur as the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate the growing baby, and it can lead to a feeling of weakness or instability in the abdominal area.

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is another common condition that can occur during pregnancy. POP is a condition where the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, drop down into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic muscles. This can lead to symptoms such as a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the vaginal area, difficulty urinating or having bowel movements, and a feeling of fullness in the vaginal area.

These are just a few of the many pelvic health issues that can arise during pregnancy, but the good news is that there are ways to manage and improve these symptoms.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy courtesy of Human Integrated Performance (Read the caption)

The benefits of pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy

One of the most effective ways to improve pelvic health during pregnancy is through physiotherapy. Physiotherapy can help to alleviate pain and discomfort, improve posture and alignment, and strengthen the muscles and ligaments in the pelvic area.

One of the key components of physiotherapy for pregnant women is pelvic floor muscle exercises. These exercises, also known as Kegel exercises, are designed to strengthen the muscles that support the pelvic organs and help to prevent POP. Kegel exercises can be done anytime, anywhere, and are easy to do, making them a convenient way to improve pelvic health during pregnancy.

Physiotherapy can also help to alleviate PGP by addressing any muscle imbalances or postural issues that may be contributing to the pain. Physiotherapists can teach exercises and stretches to help ease the pain and improve mobility in the pelvic area.

Similarly, physiotherapy can also help to alleviate diastasis recti by teaching exercises that focus on strengthening the abdominal muscles without putting pressure on the abdominal area.

In addition to exercises and stretches, physiotherapy can also include manual therapy techniques such as massage, mobilization, and manipulation to help improve the function and mobility of the pelvic joints and muscles.

In summary, pregnancy can come with its fair share of aches, pains, and discomforts, particularly in the pelvic region. Common issues that pregnant women may experience include pelvic girdle pain, diastasis recti, and pelvic organ prolapse. Physiotherapy can play a crucial role in managing and improving these symptoms by addressing muscle imbalances, postural issues, and providing exercises and stretches to alleviate pain and improve function. It’s always best to consult a physiotherapist to be guided on the best way to improve your pelvic health during pregnancy.

Book Your BACK NECK SHOULDER KNEE ELBOW HIP WRIST FOOT Pain Consult

This appointment is your opportunity to tell us what hurts and discover whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care is a good fit for you! During this session, you will talk with a physiotherapist or chiropractor on a phone call (or online) and create the right care plan specifically for your pain. There is no obligation on this session is to find out whether physiotherapy or chiropractic care can help you getting back to doing the things you love in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pelvic pain can be a symptom of an underlying condition that may increase the risk for miscarriage. However, it is important to note that not all pelvic pain indicates a risk for miscarriage and that professional medical advice should be sought if you are experiencing pelvic pain during pregnancy.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can cause pelvic pain in pregnant women. The symptoms of a UTI are similar to the discomfort and pressure that can occur during pregnancy, so it’s important to talk to your doctor if you think you may have a UTI. Your professional healthcare provider can help you determine if a UTI is the cause of your pelvic pain, and provide appropriate treatment. 

Yes, pelvic pain can affect the baby during pregnancy. Pelvic pain is a common occurrence that can be caused by various factors, such as hormonal changes and physical strain on the body. If left untreated, pelvic pain can increase discomfort during pregnancy and in some cases even lead to preterm labor. It’s important for expecting mothers to speak with their professional healthcare provider about any pelvic pain they may be experiencing to ensure the best outcome for both mother and baby. 

About Sarah Penner

Hi there! I’m a physiotherapist that is interested in treating all musculoskeletal injuries. Whether you were hurt at work, in a new activity, or in an elite sport, physiotherapy can help you get where you want to be!

Medical Disclaimer:

The information presented in this blog post is for educational purposes and should not be interpreted as medical advice. If you are seeking medical advice, treatment or a diagnosis, consult with a medical professional such as one suggested on this website. The Clinic Accelerator Inc. and the author of this page are not liable for the associated risks of using or acting upon the information contained in this article.

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