We are physiotherapists with a specialist interest in Pelvic Health. We are a small team of two but we also link in with musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy therefore you could see some of our colleagues from MSK physiotherapy.
Our experienced physiotherapists use specific exercise, education and manual therapies to help pelvic function and alleviate discomfort promoting overall well-being and long term quality of life.
How do we support women during pregnancy?
Pelvic health physiotherapy plays a crucial role in pregnancy – pre, ante and postnatal recovery.
Pre-pregnancy
Advise on exercises, it is important to be active prior to being pregnant and keeping up with this level or similar levels of activity during your pregnancy to support a healthy pregnancy for both the baby and yourself.
Antenatal
Advise on pregnancy related pain and incontinence, preventative advice of optimising pelvic floor and the importance of maintaining good strength throughout your pregnancy.
Postnatal
Pelvic floor/core, lower back, hip rehabilitation including addressing issues such as prolapse, incontinence, painful sex and scar management.
Overall pelvic health physiotherapy will support the health and well-being throughout your pregnancy.
Your appointment
Antenatal
We offer a group and/or a one to one appointments for pregnancy related musculoskeletal pain. You referral will be from either your midwife, consultant or GP. During your appointment we will ask you questions around you symptoms and signs and together we will discuss the best treatment for you.
Postnatal
If you experience an instrumental delivery, 3rd or 4th degree tear during delivery we offer a telephone consultation approx.12 weeks postnatal. During this appointment we will discuss symptoms and signs of pelvic floor issues with you and from this assessment we will offer you a face to face appointment if needed. This referral is sent automatically from the delivery suite.
One-to-one
During a one to one appointment with pelvic health physiotherapy, we will offer a therapeutic assessment discussing your symptoms and signs as well as your medical and obstetric history. We will offer an physical assessment where we will look at areas of concerns which may include a vaginal examination but this is not vital and your physiotherapist will discuss this in-depth with you during your appointment.
Following assessment we will discuss the finding and discuss treatment options with you and support your treatment plan. Which may include, exercise, education, breathing exercises, diet and hydration advice and even a referral onto other services if needed. We will also signpost you to other networks that would be able to offer you further advice around your concerns.
Referrals
You will need to ask your midwife, consultant and/or GP for a referral into this service.
Useful resources
Pelvic obstetric and gynaecological physiotherapy (POGP) booklets
- Pelvic Girdle Pain
- Exercise and advice after pregnancy
- The Pelvic Floor Muscles – a guide for women
- Fit for pregnancy – exercises and advice to stay fit and healthy during pregnancy
Websites
MASIC
The MASIC Foundation supports women who have suffered severe injuries during childbirth know as OASI (Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injuries).
