One of my favorite groups of patients to work with are new moms. If I am lucky enough to work with them throughout their pregnancy, I look forward to seeing them six weeks after delivery. Not only am I excited to hear about (and maybe even hold!) the baby, but

I am jazzed about helping them find their center again.

Pregnancy is physiologically complicated

Pregnancy is a physiologically complicated event for both the fetus and mother. Even early on, there are significant changes in the mother. In addition to the complex hormonal changes, by week eight:

  • Cardiac output increases by 20%
  • Metabolism increases by 15%
  • Oxygen consumption increases by 20%

After numerous systemic changes, including a lot of musculoskeletal adaptations, pressures in pelvic cavity change instantly with delivery the dynamics of the pelvic floor muscles are altered.

If you have had a C-section, your abdominal wall is cut, which means your muscles have to relearn how to fire. Vaginal births might also result in tears and avulsions of the muscle from the bone.

Common postpartum symptoms

Common complaints after pregnancy and delivery include:

Is this common? Yes.

Is it normal? No.

Is there something you can do about it? Yes!

Woman’s health physical therapy

A woman’s health physical therapist can evaluate and offer treatment to address the range of issues women experience postpartum. You can learn more during the Fourth Trimester Summit, organized by Lisa Chin.

Along with professionals from different disciplines, Lisa has brought the world of pelvic health to a new level. Sometimes the most important part about getting help postpartum is understanding that there is help available and where to go for it.

Though the summit is officially over, Lisa is offering the Fourth Trimester Summit again for just 24 hours on Sunday, November 20th from 12:00 am–11:59 pm EST. Be sure to watch it while you can!

Fourth Trimester Summit

Find a women’s health physical therapist

Not in Boston? You can find a women’s health physical therapist near you through the Section on Women’s Health or Herman and Wallace Pelvic Rehabilitation Institute.