Did you recently deliver a baby? If so, you may have undergone an episiotomy.
An episiotomy is a surgical cut made between the vagina and the anus to allow the infant to exit the birth canal more easily. The region tears naturally as the baby is born if an episiotomy is not performed in many circumstances. This can lengthen the healing process and cause pain and suffering for many women.
Episiotomies were once a standard component of childbirth, but they are no longer done unless there are exceptional conditions. If your baby’s heart rate slows dramatically during birth, for example, your obstetrician may decide to conduct one to speed up the process. Episiotomies are also recommended for a condition known as shoulder dystocia, which occurs when the baby’s shoulder gets stuck in the birth canal.
No matter the reason for having an episiotomy, physical therapy can help you quickly return to a healthy and active lifestyle. Call Beyond Therapy and Wellness in Bedford, TX today to schedule an appointment with one of our physical therapists.
What is the healing process like after an episiotomy?
The recovery time after an episiotomy is typically seven to ten days. Your doctor may examine the area for infection, and you may be prescribed oral antibiotics or topical treatment to help prevent infection.
Whether you’ve had an episiotomy or vaginal tearing has occurred naturally during birth, there is always a significant risk of scar tissue developing in the area, and this can develop into issues such as pain during sexual intercourse and incontinence.
Fortunately, physical therapy at Beyond Therapy and Wellness in Bedford, TX is an effective treatment for perineal tearing.
How pelvic floor rehabilitation in Bedford, TX can help you recover after childbirth
Pelvic floor therapy helps women with any type of episiotomy and can be done either before or after birth, depending on what the doctor recommends. It is essential that this type of physical therapy is done by an expert in pelvic floor therapy. At Beyond Therapy and Wellness, you can count on our skilled team of pelvic floor experts to take great care of you, no matter what stage of your pregnancy you are in.
Your obstetrician may recommend you to a physical therapy clinic for pelvic floor rehabilitation, which is the most typical method of regaining muscle strength after perineal injuries. The pelvic floor muscles cover the lower section of the pelvis, as their name suggests.
Pelvic floor therapy is a treatment that focuses on strengthening muscles in the pelvis and improving bladder control to prevent tears during childbirth or help you to recover from tearing after childbirth. It can be done with or without surgery and doesn’t involve pulling on sutures or reconstructing vaginal walls.
Kegal exercises
One of the most simple and popular ways to rebuild your pelvic muscles is the Kegal exercise. The Kegal exercises are named after American physical therapist Arnold Kegel who discovered that women with urinary incontinence could be helped by strengthening their pelvic floor muscles.
A Kegal exercise is a type of pelvic floor muscle exercise that strengthens the muscles of the pelvic floor. This exercise is performed by contracting the anal sphincter and then relaxing it. Doing this repeatedly can strengthen the muscles in your pelvic region.
Your pelvic floor specialist at Beyond Therapy and Wellness can talk you through how to perform this exercise if it is something that will benefit you.
What should I expect with pelvic floor therapy in Bedford, TX?
Rest assured that when you walk through the doors of Beyond Therapy and Wellness for treatment, you’re in great and capable hands. Our pelvic floor therapy specialists are highly trained and knowledgable individuals who will take all aspects of your condition, including your pain symptoms, into consideration during your evaluation.
Because each woman is unique, Beyond Therapy and Wellness works with you individually to devise a customized strategy to suit your personal needs and preferences. Your therapy treatment could consist of:
- Ultrasound therapy
- Biofeedback
- Trigger point
- Electrical stimulation
- Hands-on manual therapy
- Pelvic floor strengthening exercises
Although most of your treatment will take place in-office, your therapist may also elect to send you home with some pelvic floor exercises. These are very beneficial to you, because they allow you to continue making progress on your treatment even when you’re not in the office!
Request an appointment in Bedford, TX today to find relief
If you are recovering from an episiotomy, look no further than Beyond Therapy and Wellness for care. Our pelvic floor therapists are trained to pinpoint your pain and utilize methods that will help you heal and regain mobility and comfortability once again.
