5 minutes with … women’s health physiotherapist Heba Shaheed

Why are pre- and post-natal checks with a pelvic health physiotherapist important?

“You might not have pelvic symptoms straight after birth, but it is important that every new mother sees a pelvic health physio,” Heba tells Bridge.

“Issues can be disguised and present later in life. Women need to have an internal exam and check for any damage caused by birth or pregnancy. For example, if you have a prolapse but a hypertonic (tight or overactive) pelvic floor, it will hold it up and you won't get symptoms such as bulging or protruding tissue right away. If you find out about it early, you can use a pessary and after a year the prolapse can often resolve.

“Even if you don’t have a vaginal birth, post c-section you can develop a hypertonic pelvic floor from guarding and protecting yourself while you heal from the surgery. This causes symptoms such as overactive bladder, hip pain or back pain.”

Heba’s advice on preparing and recovering from birth

1 See a pelvic health physio for a pre-conception check to identify any pre-existing pelvic floor dysfunction.

2 Getting pelvic health treatment prenatally can help prevent pelvic floor trauma during birth and help you have a quicker recovery. Book a check at 20 weeks and 32 weeks to do some birth prep and ensure you can release your pelvic floor efficiently to let the baby come out. The physiotherapist can also provide you with breathing techniques and exercises to use after the birth.

3 All new mothers should have a post-natal internal pelvic floor check 6 to 8 weeks after all types of birth – even if you have no symptoms.

Help and further information

Pregnancy, Birth and Baby: Call 1800 882 436 to speak to a maternal child health nurse. This service is available seven days a week, from 7.00 am to midnight AEST.

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