Benefits
Pelvic floor muscle exercises are recommended during pregnancy and after birth (or phase of life) as they can help to:
- Improve bladder and bowel control (eg; preventing leakage, getting to the toilet on time)
- Reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse (when one or more of the vaginal walls or top of the vagina move downwards and cause a bulging or heavy feeling at the vaginal entrance. The bulge may stay within the vagina or beyond the vaginal entrance)
- Improve the support of the bump and the rest of the pelvic organs as your baby grows
- Improve recovery from childbirth
- Preserve and/or increase sexual sensation
- Maintain spine and pelvis support along with deep tummy and back muscles and help to continue with or return to normal day to day activities and exercise.
The exercises can be carried out safely in pregnancy, straight after delivery to help recovery, improve swelling, healing and circulation but………. it’s never too late to start exercising these muscles even in later life.
Your midwife, health visitor, GP or other healthcare professional will also be able to provide further information and provide a referral to a Specialist Pelvic Health Physiotherapist if you need any help with these exercises.
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