The female pelvic floor during pregnancy and after childbirth

During pregnancy, many changes occur in a woman’s body.

Physiological changes – as the pregnancy progresses and the uterus grows, a higher than usual load is applied to the pelvic floor muscles.

Hormonal changes – cause the relaxation of connective tissues and weaken the pelvic floor.

Due to changes in body weight, posture, and joint stability, pregnant women tend to suffer from pain and sensitivity in the musculoskeletal system, especially in the pelvic area.

During childbirth itself the muscles undergo harsh stretching and sometimes tears occur upon delivery of the baby, and as a result, the pelvic floor weakens.

Benefits of physical exercise during pregnancy:

Helps to maintain physical fitness.
Assists digestion and reduces constipation.
Balances blood sugar level and may reduce the risk of gestational diabetes.
Helps maintain proper blood pressure.
Reduces the frequency and severity of back pain.
Improves one’s general sense of well-being and increases personal satisfaction and self-respect.
Contributes to a quick return to optimal function after childbirth.
Reduces levels of tension, anxiety and depression that sometimes occur during pregnancy and after childbirth.

Pelvic floor training during pregnancy:

The performance of focused exercises several times a day, to strengthen the pelvic floor and the muscles around the pelvis, is recommended during pregnancy.

Stability during pregnancy:

The pelvis is the center of the body, and training combined with the appropriate strengthening will facilitate carrying the added weight of pregnancy.

Physical activity during pregnancy:

Physical exercise is recommended during pregnancy in so far as permitted by one’s medical/obstetric status. It is advisable to engage in physical activity at least three times a week, for about half an hour each time. Walking, swimming, and moderate aerobic activity are recommended at all stages of pregnancy.

Even those unaccustomed to regular physical exercise in the past are advised to start engaging in physical activity, within the limits of their personal state of health and after consultation with their medical practitioner.

Rules for performing physical activity during pregnancy:

It is important to listen to one’s body – physical activity should be reduced according to one’s senses. Any activity should be stopped in case of fatigue, increased heart rate or difficulty in breathing.
It is important to maintain heat dissipation by means of appropriate clothing and copious drinking.
Avoid sauna bathing, hot jacuzzies and hot baths. Exposure to high temperatures can harm the fetus, especially in the first trimester of pregnancy.
From the second trimester of pregnancy, when performing physical exercise while supine, lean on pillows to prevent a decrease in heart output.
Avoid activity and consult a medical professional in the following situations: hemorrhage (bleeding), abdominal pain, shortness of breath or dizziness.
Avoid any activity entailing risk of injury or falling, such as ball games, gymnastics (particularly with apparatus), horse riding, and similar activities. Diving is strictly forbidden.

After childbirth, it is advisable to consult a physiotherapist specializing in the pelvic floor to check the state of the pelvic floor and to construct a plan for its rehabilitation and return to proper and optimal function.