Prenatal & Postpartum Therapy
Prenatal Care and Physical Therapy
Physical therapy during pregnancy can address a wide variety of issues. The therapists at Woman’s Center for Wellness are trained to treat the following pregnancy-related conditions:
- Incontinence
- Constipation
- Endometriosis
- Obstetrical back pain
- Sciatica
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Prenatal physical therapy visits include an orthopedic assessment of the spine and pelvis, diastasis recti (abdominal separation) screening, core stability exercise, postural education, pelvic floor education and exercise and pain-management techniques.
Birth Prep Therapy: During the second trimester, women can work with a physical therapist to prepare for labor and birth.
Muscle/Joint Discomfort: Therapy can help address back and neck pain, sciatica, SI joint dysfunction and other muscle/joint conditions.
Pelvic Pain Therapy: Therapy can be done during pregnancy and postpartum to decrease pain by using exercise, stretching and more.
Kegel Exercises
Start doing Kegels now and keep doing them for the rest of your pregnancy, especially after childbirth. Kegel exercises tone your pelvic floor muscles, which become stretched from the weight of the baby during pregnancy and vaginal delivery.
The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, uterus and rectum. Strengthening these muscles helps:
- Prevents the leakage of urine or bowel contents.
- Heals the perineum (area between the anus and the vulva).
- Tightens the vagina.
To perform a Kegel
- Squeeze the muscles that you use to stop the flow of urine.
- Hold the squeeze for up to 10 seconds, then release.
- Do this 10 to 20 times in a row at least three times a day.
Postpartum Care and Physical Therapy
Physical therapy after you deliver can address a wide variety of issues. The therapists at Woman’s Center for Wellness are also trained to treat the following conditions that may appear after delivery:
- Incontinence
- Painful episiotomy
- Back pain
- Pelvic pain or weakness
- Abdominal weakness
Postpartum physical therapy visits include an orthopedic assessment of the spine and pelvis, diastasis recti (abdominal separation) screening, pelvic floor assessment, C-section and episiotomy scar management, body mechanic education for breastfeeding and baby care, postural education and guidance for your return to exercise after clearance from your doctor.
Diastasis Recti Correction: During pregnancy, your abdominal muscles stretch. Therapy can help you strengthen and tighten your core after baby.
Urinary Incontinence: Pelvic floor muscles can weaken during pregnancy because of your growing belly. Therapy can help you strengthen these muscles to reduce urine leakage.
Pelvic Pain Therapy: Therapy can be done during pregnancy and postpartum to decrease pain by using exercise, stretching and more.
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Benefits for You and Your Baby
Join fitness classes during your pregnancy and after baby. Enjoy the camaraderie of a group going through stages, achieving accomplishments, and getting stronger together.
The Importance of Kegel Exercises
The extra weight of pregnancy puts stress on the pelvic floor. Kegels are gentle exercises to strengthen the area.
Additional Interests
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Safe Practice Guidelines
Massage therapy during or after pregnancy has been shown to provide many benefits, including a sense of wellness, improved relaxation, less back pain and better sleep.
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One-on-one
Our registered dietitians offer strategies for pregnancy concerns, including hyperemesis, gestational hypertension, weight management, gallbladder and kidney issues.
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With help, you will be well.
Significant indications of depression and anxiety that can appear anytime during pregnancy and up to one year after childbirth. You can prevent worsening of symptoms and recover.