This is a service for pregnant women and birthing people, both during pregnancy and for up to one year following birth, experiencing pelvic health problems such as incontinence or prolapse. We work as part of a wider team with pelvic health midwives, obstetricians and health visitors and we have a role in the perineal clinic.
Being pregnant puts extra strain on the pelvic floor complex, a group of muscles and ligaments in the base of the pelvis which support the bladder, bowel and uterus, and that these same structures are stretched during birth. As a result, it is common for pregnant women to experience leakage (incontinence) of urine (wee) or faeces (poo) or to feel as though their pelvic organs are sitting lower in the vagina, known as prolapse. Sometimes after having a baby it is possible to experience pain during sex.
Often, practising regular pelvic floor muscle exercises during pregnancy and after birth will resolve these problems. You can find information about the exercises within the resources tabs below.
Another common problem during pregnancy is pelvic girdle pain. One in five women experience significant symptoms of pain in and around the joints of the pelvis.
The tissues in this area become more sensitive during pregnancy which can mean that they are more easily irritated by normal activities or positions. Often following simple advice and trying to improve your general health and stress levels will reduce symptoms. Information and exercises are contained within the ante natal resource tab below.
If your symptoms do not settle after following the advice contained within the resources in the ante natal tab you can self-refer to the team of perinatal pelvic health physiotherapists by calling our admin support team on 01282 803587.
Please note, new referrals for pelvic girdle pain can only be made during pregnancy.
