"I wish somebody had talked more about the postpartum stage, what to expect, what's normal..."

A recent study by The Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy concluded that prenatal pelvic floor education is a key aspect not just in reducing the risk of pelvic floor trauma during birth but mitigating distress if it does occur.

Participants shared what information they wish they had received. Here are few examples: "I wish I would have heard/ known about prolapse before giving birth" "I wish I had not worked out early at 7 week postpartum" "I wish I would have seen a physical therapist while pregnant to prepare my body better for labor and delivery" "I wish I would have advocated to try different pushing positions during labor" "I wish somebody had talked more about the postpartum stage, what to expect, what's normal, what is not.... postpartum recovery... what it actually looks like"

This should tell us that women need to be better prepared for labor, birth and beyond. Education around stages of labor, variety of birthing positions, breathing through different stages of labor, postpartum, and (the biggest) the connection between pelvic floor and breathing should be an integral part of pelvic health rehab. In my work with my in-person and online client,I see huge success and symptom relief when my words become their experience. I really appreciate this study. It brings forward a clear picture of the importance of education and creates awareness that a pelvic floor therapist is not just there to assess your pelvic floor strength. They are there to make you aware of the mechanics of pressure management and guide you through your beautiful journey of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. Given the prevalent rates of pelvic floor trauma during birth, these findings have the potential to improve the postpartum experience of a large number of women. You can write to me if you have any questions about this or you can join me for my next AMA (Ask Me Anything) session coming up on July 8th. Thanks In health ~Jagisha Sekhri Join the Facebook tribe: https://www.facebook.com/integritybyJagisha/ #womensupportingwomen #womeninbusiness #womenempowerment #womenhelpingwomen #health