Is incontinence and pelvic or abdominal pain normal?
Many moms experience incontinence both during and after their pregnancy. Incontinence following the birth of a child is normal and should only occur temporarily. Urine leakage should be resolved or significantly improved two weeks after giving birth. Some discomfort while you are healing may also be normal. However, pelvic or abdominal pain or pain with intercourse is not normal once healing has occurred. Incontinence and/or pain that continues longer than two weeks post-partum should be treated with a referral to physical therapy. The earlier your symptoms are evaluated, the sooner your symptoms can be addressed.
When should I consider physical therapy?
Post-partum physical therapy can play an important role in the recovery of all post-partum moms. Whether that be for urinary symptoms, pelvic and abdominal pain or returning to the desired physical activities that you did prior to pregnancy and delivery, all moms should consider physical therapy.
During a stay in the Birth Center at Glencoe Regional Health, all moms receive a session with a physical therapist, along with a referral to follow-up two weeks post-partum with our physical therapists in our outpatient rehab clinic.
How can physical therapy help?
Physical therapists can provide instruction on ways to strengthen weakened pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. They can employ various therapy techniques, including strengthening of weak muscles, improving muscle coordination, and strategies for calming tense muscles if needed. They also provide education about habits that may be affecting your bladder control, urge to urinate, and pain, as well as other tips to help you care for your body after baby.
What can I do to help with recovery?
Being active and returning to exercise within the guidelines of your health care provider can assist with recovery, especially incontinence. It can also increase your energy level and post-partum mood. Walking is a great way to stimulate the muscles of the pelvic floor. It improves tone, support, and stability of your pelvis, bladder, bowel, uterus, and low back.
What if I’ve had a cesarean section (C-section)?
Incontinence and pelvic pain can occur regardless of the type of delivery you had. However, women who experience a C-section may find their recovery more challenging, as they have undergone a major surgery. If you’ve had a C-section, your health care provider will recommend that you use caution with lifting. You may also need to be cleared by your health care provider before you begin vigorous exercise or impact activities. It’s important to speak with your provider before resuming normal activity. If you have attempted exercise and have a return of pelvic or abdominal pain or incontinence, you should be evaluated by a physical therapist.
