Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Essential Support for Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery

As a doula, I understand the importance of holistic care during the postpartum period, and I’m always looking to share resources that help new parents thrive. That’s why I’m excited to introduce Melanie Brizard, a skilled physiotherapist with a Master’s degree in Physical Therapy and a background in Athletic Therapy. With expertise in pelvic floor rehabilitation, women's health, and osteopathy, Melanie has been helping individuals recover and strengthen their pelvic health, especially for new parents navigating the postpartum period. Her passion for perinatal care makes her an incredible resource for families.

We asked Melanie three key questions to help you understand pelvic floor health and how physiotherapy can support postpartum recovery. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort after childbirth or simply want to take proactive steps in caring for your body, Melanie’s insights will guide you.

1. What is the Pelvic Floor, and Why Is It Important for Overall Health?

The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that provide support to your bladder, uterus and rectum. These muscles play a critical role in controlling bladder and bowel function, supporting sexual health, and contributing to core stability. Maintaining pelvic floor health is essential for overall well-being, as it helps prevent incontinence, prolapse, and discomfort during everyday activities or intimacy. For new parents, especially, pelvic floor health is essential during pregnancy and postpartum recovery, as the postural changes that occur during pregnancy as well as childbirth can often lead to pelvic floor dysfunction that can impact day-to-day comfort.

2. What Are Common Pelvic Floor Issues New Parents Should Be Aware Of?

After childbirth, many new parents experience pelvic floor issues like urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or discomfort during sex. These issues can arise due to the strain of pregnancy and delivery, which may weaken or over-tighten the pelvic floor muscles. While these symptoms are common, they certainly aren’t normal and shouldn’t be accepted as part of postpartum recovery. For example, urinary incontinence may occur when you cough, sneeze, or laugh, and pelvic organ prolapse happens when the pelvic organs shift downward, causing a sensation of heaviness or pressure. Pain during sex, which can be related to pelvic floor muscle tension or weakness, is also common but should be addressed. Addressing these issues early with pelvic floor physiotherapy can lead to significant improvements and prevent long-term discomfort.

3. How Can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Help During Pregnancy and Postpartum?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a safe and effective way to address the physical changes that occur during pregnancy and after childbirth. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can provide targeted exercises to strengthen weak muscles or relax tight muscles, depending on your needs. For example, strengthening exercises like Kegels can help manage urinary incontinence, while techniques to release tight pelvic muscles can reduce pain during sex or discomfort from muscle tension. Additionally, pelvic floor physiotherapy isn’t just for postpartum recovery; prenatal visits can help train your body to push safely during labour, ensuring the pelvic floor muscles are prepared and functioning well. In addition to specific exercises, physiotherapists can educate on posture, breathing techniques, and body mechanics to improve pelvic health and promote recovery. By addressing pelvic floor issues early, you can enhance postpartum recovery and prevent further complications.

A huge thank you to Melanie Brizard for sharing her expertise with us today. Your knowledge and passion for pelvic floor health are invaluable, and we’re so grateful for your insights into how physiotherapy can support new parents on their recovery journey.

You can book an appointment with Melanie at Axxeleration Physio Vaudreuil or at ARC Physio in Pointe-Claire.

Check out Tender.ly a local doula company supporting growing families through the fertility, birth and postpartum journey. 

Until next time,

Alix