A study by Pierce (2012) investigated back and pelvic pain experienced by women during pregnancy. The study suggests that although 71% of pregnant women reported pain to their healthcare professionals, only 25% received any treatment.

Unfortunately, many women are told by their healthcare professionals (including physiotherapists) that back and pelvic pain is a normal part of pregnancy, or that there is nothing much that can be done. Often women believe the misconception that pregnancy related pain is normal and that they just have to live with it.  The truth is, you don’t have to suffer through it.

 

” Often women believe the misconception that pregnancy related pain is normal and that they just have to live with it.  The truth is, you don’t have to suffer through it.”

 

It is important during pregnancy that women feel validated about their pain and have their concerns addressed with evidence-based treatment by a healthcare professional with prenatal training. Our bodies were magnificently designed to grow, conform, and adapt to bring a baby into the world. That is not a job for the meek!  Often women are told during their pregnancy that they should “be careful”, and that their pelvis is “unstable.” You’ve heard it all before. This, much like the rest of the unsolicited advice you get from the stranger at the supermarket, your in-laws, your co-workers, (I could go on) is not helpful or true. Much of the “advice” we get during our pregnancies only perpetuates fear and pain.

I am not denying that pregnancy impacts our bodies. It can make our bodies feel heavy, achy, stiff and swollen. But during pregnancy women’s bodies can be mobile, healthy, and strong. Pregnancy can be enjoyed. Now there is something you may not have heard before.

 

“…during pregnancy women’s bodies can be mobile, healthy, and strong. Pregnancy can be enjoyed.Now there is something you may not have heard before.”

 

The reality is that with the help of a physiotherapist trained in pelvic floor physiotherapy and pre/postpartum care, pain can be greatly reduced during pregnancy and often in a very short period of time. Most women only require 3 or 4 sessions, although women with more severe pain often require more. Waiting until your pain is debilitating is unnecessary and early intervention allows for the best outcomes with the least number of visits. Within a few weeks women can often return to a better sleep, normal daily routines, work, and exercise.

 

” The reality is that with the help of a physiotherapist trained in pelvic floor physiotherapy and pre/postpartum care, pain can be greatly reduced during pregnancy and often in a very short period of time.”

 

 

IT’S ABOUT POSTURE, POSITIONING, AND HOW YOU MOVE

It is often our postures (the way we stand, sit, and lie down) that are one of the leading contributors to our pain. This is why pain is often felt after being in a certain position for a period of time. For example, after 10 minutes of standing, 30 minutes of sitting, or after an hour lying down. It has less to do with lack of movement and more to do with poor positioning.  Pain is often also felt when changing positions, such as going from sit to stand, or rolling over in bed. How you move matters.

 

HERE IS WHAT YOU CAN DO:

1. A home exercise program prescribed by a pelvic floor physiotherapist is an excellent way to minimize discomfort and maximize function, however the best place to start is with posture.
2. Remember, your pelvis is NOT unstable, you are not fragile, so there are no dangerous or forbidden postures. However, there are less helpful postures and movement patterns that promote decreased muscular support and control of the joints in the pelvis.
3. When it comes to both pre and postpartum sleeping the following tips will be of great value

 

HELPFUL SLEEPING POSTURE:

Lying on your side, stack your knees in line with each other, with your top foot in front of or behind your bottom foot. This position is suitable with or without a pillow between your knees.

LESS HELPFUL SLEEPING POSTURE:

Lying on your side with the top leg forward; placing the pelvis in a less supported and rotated position

At Pelvic Health & Physiotherapy my goal is to give women an effective way to self manage their symptoms during pregnancy using postural advice and an individualized home exercise program. By learning how to independently manage your symptoms, it will help deter pain both now and during future pregnancies.

Lynn Sweeney

For an assessment and more postural tips to improve mobility and reduce pain, contact me!

PHONE: 457-2113 | EMAIL | FACEBOOK

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MEET LYNN

I knew that having kids would change my world, but I had no idea it would also change my career path.

In 2014 after giving birth to my son Scott, I experienced pelvic floor dysfunction. My Obstetrician recommended I seek treatment in a rather new and emerging field; pelvic floor physiotherapy. During my recovery, I sought specialized training in Toronto as this area of physiotherapy is not part of the academic practical curriculum in the Master of Physical Therapy programs.

In 2015 following completion of my training in female and male urinary incontinence, prolapse, and pelvic pain, I opened my own practice in Fredericton; Pelvic Health & Physiotherapy, in an Obstetrics & Gynaecology clinic. I divide my time between clinical work, teaching at UNB, and most importantly, spending quality time with my husband and two children.

I love my new world as a mom!

Lynn

 

 

Disclaimer– The content provided in the Mom Talk Blog’s “Advice From a Pro” series is for information purposes only and is neither intended to be relied upon nor to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Website. The information is intended for residents of Canada.