Pregnancy and Postpartum Care

Pregnancy and Postpartum Care

From the time a woman conceives, to a year or 2 after delivery, her body experiences a wide variety of physiological and physical changes to help manage her pregnancy.

The prenatal term ranges between 38–40 weeks, divided into three trimesters of 12 weeks each.

The period of time right after childbirth until 12 weeks postpartum is commonly referred to as the 4TH TRIMESTER. Hormonal changes occur as the body starts moving from pregnancy hormone levels to re-balance, resulting in emotional, physiological, and physical changes, which can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Physical Therapy during and after pregnancy can help to address/treat the following:

  • Labour positions and delivery
  • Perineal massage 
  • Pregnancy related back and hip pain
  • Pelvic girdle pain
  • Pubic symphysis pain
  • Sacroiliac pain
  • Exercise modifications during pregnancy
  • Diastasis recti management
  • Scar management
  • Perineal tears
  • C-section scar
  • Mastitis and clogged duct
  • Return to exercise or running
  • Urinary Symptoms (urgency, frequency, incontinence) 
  • Bowel Symptoms (constipation, incontinence)
  • Pain with sex
  • Pelvic organ prolapse
  • Sciatica
  • Tailbone pain 
  • Pelvic girdle pain

Using Body Harmony’s services was one of the best things I did for myself after giving birth. My program was customized very specifically and thoughtfully for my postpartum goals and abilities. It was a gentle–but challenging–almost total-body rehabilitation. The office atmosphere was welcoming and friendly, and I was encouraged to bring along my baby which was not only life-savingly convenient, but fun for her, too; the staff was so sweet to her and either entertained her or set up a safe space for her to play. Having profession guidance as I healed really took a load off my mind so I could focus on my new role: mom!

CN

I am extremely happy with the care and advice I received at Body Harmony Physical Therapy. I came to them on a referral from my ob/gyn. I was pregnant with my twin girls, and suffered from sharp pain in my lower back. I could hardly walk when I first arrived at the practice.

Roseanne was available right away, and after 1 hour in her hands, I was able to walk out back home without crying from pain! She also taught me several exercises I could do on my own to help strengthening and relax my pregnant body. We met once or twice a week for a few weeks until I delivered my babies, and thanks to her, I was able to enjoy the last months of my pregnancy. I am also grateful because I am feeling great now that my babies are born, and I am sure it is thanks the care I received before.

Roseanne is punctual, pays attention to how you feel and what you are going through. She is friendly and very professional, and makes you feel at ease right from the start.

EF, 35