Pelvic Floor Survival Guide for Moms

Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Matters: Meet Dr. Meagan Motherhood is a beautiful journey that comes with significant changes to your body. Between carrying your baby for nine months and the act of giving birth, your pelvic floor has done some heavy lifting. 

We know how tough it can be to focus on your recovery with kids, chores, and endless to-do lists. That’s why we asked our friend Dr. Meagan, a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist and founder of Pelvic Confidence, to share practical advice for postpartum moms.

Let’s talk about what happens to your body, why pelvic floor therapy is essential, and how you can prioritize your health and recovery.

What Happens to Your Body During and After Childbirth?

During pregnancy, your pelvic floor muscles support the weight of your growing baby. If you had a vaginal delivery, these muscles stretched significantly—up to three times their normal length. This stretching can lead to:

• Bladder control issues

• Pelvic heaviness or discomfort

• Perineal tears

For moms who had a Cesarean delivery, your core muscles were impacted by major abdominal surgery. The pregnancy itself also challenged your pelvic floor muscles. No matter how you delivered, the postpartum phase is a crucial time for recovery.

Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Matters

Many moms experience bladder leaks, pressure, or even pain during intimacy, and these issues can persist if left untreated. Pelvic floor therapy can:

• Strengthen your pelvic floor and core

• Address bladder leaks, pelvic heaviness, and discomfort

• Help you safely return to activities like running or lifting

Ignoring pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to chronic issues, such as worsening incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. Early intervention can prevent these problems and improve your overall quality of life.

The Importance of Prioritizing Yourself

As moms, it’s easy to put everyone else first. However, self-care is non-negotiable. Remember the old saying, “You can’t pour from an empty cup”? Prioritizing your recovery is not selfish—it’s necessary for you to be at your best for your family.

Pelvic floor therapy can help you regain confidence, build strength, and prevent long-term health issues.

What to Expect in Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy begins with an assessment tailored to your unique needs. This might include:

• A gentle evaluation of your pelvic floor muscles

• A movement assessment to see how your body works as a whole

The therapist will create a personalized recovery plan tailored to your goals. Whether it’s feeling comfortable during daily activities, safely returning to exercise, or just gaining confidence in your body, this plan can help you get there.

Tips for a Stronger Recovery

• Start Small: Even a few minutes of focused exercises can make a difference.

• Hydration and Nutrition: Proper hydration and a balanced diet support tissue healing and energy levels.

• Rest and Sleep: Easier said than done, but rest is essential for recovery.

• Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from loved ones or professionals.

A Reminder for Moms Everywhere

Motherhood is an incredible journey, but it doesn’t mean you have to accept discomfort or put your health on the back burner. Pelvic floor therapy is a powerful way to take care of yourself and set the foundation for a thriving life with your little one.

Investing in your recovery ensures you can show up as your strongest, most confident self.

Using Insurance for Pelvic Floor Therapy

If you prefer to use insurance for pelvic floor therapy, you can find in-network pelvic floor physical therapists through APTA’s Find a PT tool or by asking your OB/GYN for a referral.

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Care That Fits Your Life

Dr. Meagan knows how busy postpartum life can be, so she has designed flexible care options:

• Hybrid care combines in-person sessions with digital support for a balanced approach.

• Fully online care lets you access pelvic floor therapy from home, so you don’t have to juggle extra appointments.

Her goal is to help you rebuild strength and confidence while seamlessly fitting recovery into your busy life.

Take the First Step

Motherhood is a journey, and you deserve to feel supported every step of the way. If you’re ready to learn more, click here to book a free consultation. Let’s create a plan that helps you feel strong, capable, and ready for all the joys of life with your little one.

Dr. Meagan Schwarzrock

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