Pregnancy and childbirth definitely require some recovery time, and many women experience pelvic pain as part of their postnatal recovery. While some discomfort is normal, persistent or intense pain can have a significant impact on your daily life. However, postnatal recovery and pelvic pain don’t have to go hand in hand. Beyond Therapy and Wellness is here to help!
Today, we want to explore everything you need to know about postnatal recovery and pelvic pain, including some of the common causes and the various approaches our Bedford, TX physical therapists might suggest to help you find relief. Keep reading to learn more!
What Causes Pelvic Pain After Giving Birth?
Your body undergoes significant physical changes during pregnancy and labor. These changes can cause various issues that might lead to pelvic pain. Here are some of the most common ones we see:
Muscle Strain and Trauma
- The pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, uterus, and bowels, undergo immense strain during pregnancy and childbirth. Vaginal delivery can overstretch or even tear these muscles, leading to pain during the postnatal recovery period.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- After birth, some women experience pelvic organ prolapse, where one or more of the pelvic organs drop lower due to weakened muscles. This can cause pressure, discomfort, and pain in the pelvic region.
Episiotomy or Perineal Tears
- If you had an episiotomy (a surgical cut to the vaginal opening) or experienced a natural tear during delivery, you might experience pain during the healing process. You also want to watch out for scar tissue, which can contribute to long-term discomfort.
Hormonal Changes
- After birth, hormone levels shift dramatically, and the drop in estrogen can lead to joint and tissue sensitivity. This change may increase discomfort and prolong the postnatal recovery process.
How Physical Therapy Can Help with Postnatal Recovery and Pelvic Pain
The team at Beyond Therapy and Wellness will work with you to create a personalized treatment program to assist with postnatal recovery and pelvic pain. Depending on your needs, we might suggest the following:
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
- Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the pelvic organs. Our therapists can guide you through exercises and other techniques to help restore muscle strength, reduce pain, and improve daily function.
Scar Tissue Mobilization
- If scar tissue is causing pelvic pain, we can apply various manual therapy techniques to help break down adhesions and restore mobility. This treatment can reduce discomfort from perineal tears or even C-section scars.
Posture and Alignment Correction
- Pregnancy can affect your posture and cause various alignment issues, even after you’ve given birth. We’ll teach you how to adjust your posture to relieve pressure on the pelvic area, helping to reduce pain and prevent future strain.
Core Strengthening
- Strengthening the core muscles is crucial for postnatal recovery. We’ll show you exercises to rebuild core stability and reduce strain on the pelvic floor.
Say Goodbye to Pelvic Pain During Your Postnatal Recovery!
Are you struggling with your postpartum recovery? Never fear! Beyond Therapy and Wellness can help you regain strength and feel your best. Our team of Bedford, TX-based physical therapists will guide you through a personalized recovery plan that addresses your specific needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and get started.
