Congratulations if you’re on the amazing journey that is pregnancy! It’s a rollercoaster experience filled with excitement, anticipation, and physical changes. If it feels overwhelming at times, please know that you’re not alone.
It’s important that you receive the right care during and after your pregnancy. As well as benefitting your baby, it will help you to feel comfortable, empowered, and well.
One aspect of prenatal care that is gaining recognition for its significant benefits is pregnancy physiotherapy, as well as postnatal physio.
Here, we’ll explore why incorporating physiotherapy into your prenatal routine can be a gamechanger, offering both physical and emotional support throughout your pregnancy journey.
What is pregnancy physiotherapy?
Pregnancy physiotherapy, also known as antenatal or prenatal physiotherapy, is a specialised field of physio focusing on the unique needs of expectant mothers.
This form of physiotherapy addresses the musculoskeletal challenges and changes that occur during pregnancy. Trained physiotherapists use a combination of exercises, manual therapy, and education to help manage pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
The benefits of pregnancy physiotherapy
Some of the core benefits of pregnancy physio include:
1. Pain Relief
Pregnancy physiotherapy can offer relief from various aches and pains.
As your body adjusts to accommodate your growing baby, you may experience discomfort in your back, hips, pelvis, and legs. This is often due to the increased weight and shifting centre of gravity, as well as changes to your ligaments, for example.
A physiotherapist can provide targeted exercises and treatments to alleviate pain and improve your posture, making daily activities more comfortable.
2. Improved posture and balance
Pregnancy can significantly impact your posture and balance. The weight of your baby can pull your body forward, leading to a swayback posture and increased risk of falls.
By having prenatal physiotherapy, you can learn exercises to strengthen your core muscles, improve your posture, and maintain your balance, which will help to keep you and your baby safe from injury.
3. Enhanced pelvic floor health
Your pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role during pregnancy and childbirth. Strengthening these muscles can help support your uterus, bladder, and bowels, and can also aid in a smoother delivery.
Pregnancy physiotherapy includes exercises specifically designed to enhance pelvic floor strength, which can prevent common issues such as incontinence and pelvic pain. These exercises can also protect your long-term pelvic floor health – a bonus for later in life!
4. Preparation for labour and delivery
Labour and delivery are physically demanding processes. Physiotherapists can guide you through exercises that prepare your body for the challenges of childbirth. You can practice techniques such as controlled breathing, relaxation methods, and labour positions, making you feel more confident and prepared for the big day.
5. Faster postnatal recovery
By maintaining your strength and flexibility during pregnancy, you’ll find it easier to return to your pre-pregnancy activities. Additionally, physiotherapists can offer guidance on safe postnatal exercises to help you regain strength and function more quickly once your baby is here.
6. Emotional support and stress relief
Being pregnant is a big life event and it’s natural to feel a wide range of emotions throughout your pregnancy, from joy and excitement to stress, depression, or anxiety. Indeed, according to the charity Tommy’s, one in five people experience anxiety during pregnancy.
Regular physiotherapy sessions provide a dedicated time and space to focus on your wellbeing, offering both physical and emotional support. The relaxation techniques and gentle exercises can help reduce stress levels, promoting a sense of calm.
Common techniques used in prenatal physiotherapy
Prenatal physiotherapy encompasses a range of techniques that can be tailored to meet your specific needs. Here are some of the most common methods used:
· Manual therapy
Manual therapy involves hands-on techniques to mobilise joints and soft tissues. This can include gentle massage and manipulation to relieve tension, reduce pain, and help you to feel more flexible.
· Exercise therapy
Customised exercise programmes are a cornerstone of pregnancy physiotherapy. These exercises are designed to strengthen your muscles, improve your flexibility, and enhance your overall fitness. Core stability exercises, pelvic floor exercises, and gentle aerobic activities are commonly included.
· Postural education
A physiotherapist can give you targeted guidance on proper posture and body mechanics, helping you to move more efficiently and reduce strain on your body. This education is crucial in managing daily activities and staying as comfortable as possible, even in the later stages of your pregnancy.
· Breathing and relaxation techniques
Controlled breathing and relaxation techniques are taught to help manage pain and stress. These methods are particularly useful during labour and can promote a more positive childbirth experience.
· Education and advice
Education is a vital component of pregnancy physiotherapy. It can help you access valuable advice on various aspects of pregnancy, including safe exercise practices, nutrition, and ways to manage common pregnancy-related issues.
Integrating physiotherapy into your prenatal routine
Making pregnancy physiotherapy a part of your prenatal routine is easier than you might think.
Before starting any new exercise or physiotherapy programme, it’s a good idea to speak to your midwife or GP to determine if pregnancy physiotherapy is appropriate for you. At Physio Box, we have physiotherapists who specialise in pregnancy care, so we can answer any questions you may have or explore if and why prenatal physio is right for you.
Consistency is key when it comes to physiotherapy. Regular sessions will help you to track and maintain your progress, adjust your treatment plan as needed, and ensure that you’re getting the most benefit from your therapy.
Your physiotherapist will provide exercises and techniques to practice at home. Follow their advice and incorporate these activities into your daily routine, and you should feel stronger and fitter throughout your pregnancy and as you get to know your new baby after their arrival.
Conclusion
Pregnancy physiotherapy is a valuable addition to your prenatal care routine, offering numerous benefits that can enhance your comfort, health, and wellbeing during this special time.
By addressing physical challenges, providing pain relief, and preparing you for labour and postnatal recovery, physiotherapy empowers you to embrace your pregnancy with confidence and joy. Contact us today to book your first appointment
