Expecting parents share their experiences with pelvic floor therapy and its impact on childbirth outcomes
Category: Health
As more expecting parents seek ways to prepare for childbirth, pelvic floor therapy has emerged as a popular option. A recent discussion on r/beyondthebump received over 100 upvotes and numerous comments, highlighting a range of experiences from those who have tried pelvic floor therapy (PFT) during pregnancy.
Many parents report positive outcomes from pelvic floor therapy, noting its potential benefits for both pregnancy and delivery. For example, one user, mariekeap, shared that she participated in pelvic floor therapy before and after childbirth. She noted, "I did end up with a third degree tear anyway, but no prolapse. I really feel like PFPT before birth helped me with getting through the earlier stages of labour (breathing exercises, positions) and it was definitely helpful to already have the groundwork laid for healing afterwards." This sentiment echoes the experiences of others who found that preparation can ease the birthing process.
Several commenters highlighted how pelvic floor therapy contributed to a smoother pregnancy experience. User wingedeverlasting mentioned, "I did pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy plus prenatal yoga and I didn't have a ton of pain in pregnancy so I was able to be pretty active." This user also had an induction due to preeclampsia but described her delivery as relatively easy, with minimal tearing.
Another participant, Bobbo424, emphasized the importance of physical therapy, saying, "I started PT at 15 weeks pregnant, mostly to learn how to lift properly. Had a super easy delivery with 0 tearing. My OB requires all patients to see a PT post-birth, and I was able to graduate pretty quick because of my birth. I credit most of it to PT." This highlights how early intervention can lead to positive outcomes during labor.
Not all experiences were uniformly positive. Some participants reported limited benefits from pelvic floor therapy. User RemarkableAd9140 commented, "I did some pelvic floor PT during pregnancy with my second. I didn’t find it wildly helpful for the issues I was having (pelvic girdle pain and SI joint pain), and I couldn’t keep up with the exercises, so I quit." This reflects the reality that what works for one person may not work for another.
Similarly, another user, SocialStigma29, shared contrasting experiences from two pregnancies. For her first baby, she did not undergo pelvic floor therapy and suffered a third-degree tear. In her second pregnancy, she began therapy in her third trimester, illustrating how different approaches can yield varied results.
The conversation also touched on postpartum recovery and the role of pelvic floor therapy. User scandijord noted, "I didn’t do any PT during pregnancy, went into labor at 37+5, had a tiny tear that wasn’t even first degree, no prolapses or anything but did need pelvic floor PT as sex was still very painful until 7 months pp and I also would get reoccurring fissures." This highlights that even without prior therapy, postpartum pelvic floor therapy can be beneficial.
For many parents, the decision to pursue pelvic floor therapy seems to hinge on individual circumstances and preferences. Some find it invaluable in preparing for childbirth, whereas others may not experience the same level of benefit.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), pelvic floor therapy can be a valuable resource for pregnant individuals. It can help manage common discomforts associated with pregnancy, such as pelvic girdle pain and urinary incontinence. ACOG recommends discussing any concerns with a healthcare provider, who can guide whether pelvic floor therapy is appropriate.
In addition to physical therapy, ACOG emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical activity during pregnancy, as it can lead to improved outcomes during labor. Engaging in safe exercises, such as prenatal yoga, can complement the benefits of pelvic floor therapy.
If you’re considering pelvic floor therapy during your pregnancy, here are some steps to help guide your decision:
By taking proactive steps, you can make informed decisions about your pregnancy and delivery, potentially leading to a smoother experience.
In the end, every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one individual may not resonate with another. Pelvic floor therapy offers a range of benefits, but it's important to weigh your options and consult with professionals to find the best path for you. As one user aptly put it, "You really have to find what works for you." With the right support and resources, you can navigate your pregnancy with confidence.
This article is grounded in a discussion trending on Reddit. Claims from the original post and comments may not reflect independently verified reporting.