Your pelvic floor
You may have heard the term “pelvic floor,” but you may not know much about it. Now that you’re pregnant, it’s important to understand how pregnancy and childbirth impacts your pelvic floor and the physical and emotional effects of childbirth.
Your pelvic floor is made up of a group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus, vagina and bowel, and these muscles work extra hard during pregnancy. Weakened pelvic floor muscles can lead to such conditions as bowel and bladder control issues, prolapse and pain during sex.
What is S.M.A.R.T. Start to Motherhood?
The S.M.A.R.T Start to Motherhood program is a video series and group physical therapy program designed to teach you about your pelvic floor, how to manage conditions that may arise during and after pregnancy, and exercises to re-strengthen the pelvic floor muscles after childbirth. S.M.A.R.T stands for Supplying Medical knowledge And Rehabilitative Therapy.
The short videos in the series will cover common topics including:
- Your pelvic floor: An introduction (view video)
- Diastasis rectus abdominis, also known as the “mom pooch”
- Bladder issues during pregnancy and postpartum
- Bowel issues during pregnancy and postpartum
- Obstetric tears and episiotomy
- Recovery and what to expect postpartum
- Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders
- Postpartum sex and desire
- Postpartum sexual pain
Physical therapy classes
The program also offers a group physical therapy class 4-6 weeks after delivery. The class is led by a specialized physical therapist who is a pelvic floor expert, and includes educational handouts and supplies to use as you continue with your recovery at home.
How can I join this program?
You can participate in the S.M.A.R.T Start to Motherhood program by clicking on "Let's go!" when prompted to receive updates on your pregnancy through your MyChart account. Your obstetric provider can help you enroll or answer questions about the program.
You can participate in the S.M.A.R.T Start to Motherhood program by clicking on "Let's go!" when prompted to receive updates on your pregnancy through your MyChart account. Your obstetric provider can help you enroll or answer questions about the program.