After experiencing discomfort following childbirth, my doctor recommended I consult a specialist to help restore the health of my pelvic floor muscles. At first, the appointments felt a bit uncomfortable, but pelvic floor therapy not only healed my body but also boosted my confidence.
Pelvic Floor Therapy: A Path to Recovery
Pelvic floor therapy can be beneficial even if you had an “uneventful” delivery. Initially, the process may seem awkward, but you’ll soon find your comfort level. The techniques employed in therapy can lead to significant improvements in your overall well-being. If you plan to have more children, starting pelvic floor PT early can be advantageous. While it might come with a cost, there are options available that can make it more affordable.
During a casual gathering with fellow new moms, someone jokingly suggested, “Just drink a glass of wine, grab some lube, and go have fun.” We all laughed, sitting in a circle on the gym floor with our little ones crawling around. After my OB cleared me for intimacy at my six-week postpartum checkup, I had a glass of Cabernet, prepared the organic lube, and called my husband into the bedroom. It seemed promising; we were both still attracted to each other—until it wasn’t. The reality hit hard when I could not handle anything; every attempt brought sharp pain. I had never encountered such discomfort before, and it left me stunned.
Returning to my OB, I learned that everything appeared “normal.” However, what I really needed was pelvic floor physical therapy. This therapy is intended to strengthen the muscles that support your uterus during pregnancy, which are also crucial for functions like continence, sexual arousal, and orgasm. I thought I had a good grasp on postpartum care—breastfeeding basics, managing bleeding, dealing with hormonal fluctuations—but pelvic floor therapy never came up in conversations. I wish I had known about it earlier.
Once I began sessions with a therapist, I started to see progress. The therapy was tailored to my needs, addressing my specific issues while also making me feel at ease. It was a revelation to learn how essential these muscles are for my overall health.
If you’re considering starting a family, you might want to explore resources like Make a Mom for at-home insemination options, which offer a reusable method. You can also check out how at-home insemination works. Additionally, for those looking to enhance their little one’s development, these activities for 15-month-olds can make a fun and educational difference. For insights on IVF, the Mayo Clinic is an excellent authority on the subject. Meanwhile, if you’re interested in pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is a must-read.
In summary, pelvic floor therapy can be a transformative experience for postpartum recovery, enhancing both physical health and emotional well-being. It’s a resource that every new parent should consider.