The pelvic floor is a collection of muscles, ligaments and connective tissues located in the lower pelvis.
These muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus and rectum. They keep these organs in proper position and help control urinary and faecal functions.
During pregnancy, the pelvic floor undergoes significant changes due to the growing uterus and weight gain in the abdominal area.
These changes can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor muscles, which can weaken them and cause problems such as urinary incontinence, prolapse (drooping of the pelvic organs) and sexual dysfunction.
TAKING CARE OF THE PELVIC FLOOR
It is important to take care of the pelvic floor during pregnancy to prevent these problems and promote faster recovery after childbirth. Some recommendations include:
- Kegel exercises: Kegel exercises strengthen the pelvic floor muscles. They involve contracting and relaxing the muscles used to stop the flow of urine. These exercises can be done anytime, anywhere.
- Maintain proper posture: Adopting correct posture helps maintain good pelvic alignment and reduces pressure on the pelvic floor. Avoiding standing or sitting for long periods of time and using supportive cushions can be helpful.
- Avoiding constipation: Straining during bowel movements can put additional pressure on the pelvic floor. To prevent constipation, it is recommended to eat a diet rich in fibre, drink enough water and exercise regularly.
- Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight gain during pregnancy can help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor. Consult with your doctor or health care professional to determine what is an appropriate weight gain range for you.
Consult a pelvic floor physiotherapist: A specialist physiotherapist can assess the health of your pelvic floor, provide specific exercises and give you guidance on how to care for your pelvic floor during pregnancy.
Remember that every pregnancy is unique, so it is important to consult a pelvic floor specialist to get the best results.
