By Sonya Worthy Okolo, PT
During the pandemic, I was in conversation with a local midwife about recent home births. “Ugh, these COVID births are tough!” What was different? Birthers were housebound with less movement and living with fear, elevated stress and anxiety. The perfect combination for a tight pelvic floor!
Did you know a tight pelvic floor can be a “stoplight” in labor stalling birth?
Were you told you have to live with pain and just expect it while expecting?
Are you afraid of tearing and never being the same “down there”?
These are common concerns I’ve heard over the years in practice. After treating thousands of patients with postpartum complications, pelvic organ prolapse, bladder leaks, and back pain “since childbirth”, an intentional shift was made to expand birth support services to prenatal wellness. As a trained Birth Doula, Spinning Baby enthusiast, and Physical Therapist specializing in Pelvic Floor Therapy, I understand that birthers need preparation and prevention in addition to highly skilled, compassionate pelvic floor rehabilitation therapy.
Even with the best plans and providers, birth is often filled with the unexpected. But, there are things that can be done to help the outcome: Pelvic Floor Therapy, Prenatal Yoga, Webster-trained Chiro Care, Acupuncture, & Massage. Research supports the benefits of:
- Doula Support & Childbirth Education
- Pelvic Mobility & Pelvic Floor Muscle Relaxation
- Pelvic Balance with Management of Pregnancy-related Pain
Prenatal Yoga classes are now offered at Oasis PT & Pelvic Health!
Why choose YouTube when you can join the community at a pelvic health center receiving personalized pregnancy yoga from a seasoned Yoga Instructor? In the collaborative care of a Prenatal Yoga Instructor and the Oasis Pelvic PT & Pelvic Health team, you will receive a pelvic health screen and individualized prenatal yoga support. By working with trained Birth Doulas, you will also be educated and empowered to optimize chances of having the birth you desire.
Yoga is transformative and extends beyond the physical as it nourishes your mind and body.
- Enhancing Physical Wellbeing:
Prenatal yoga can help you build strength, flexibility, and stamina in preparation for labor and childbirth. During the yoga sessions, each pose is modified based on your symptoms, needs, and body type. According to the research review, evidence suggests that yoga during pregnancy is safe for pregnant women and may be more beneficial than walking and standard prenatal exercises for both physical and mental health (1).
- Reducing Stress and Anxiety:
Pregnancy brings many hormonal changes, along with life stressors, that can become overwhelming. Meditation interventions are incorporated in the class to foster a sense of calm & relaxation. Regular practice can reduce stress hormones, promote better sleep, and improve overall emotional wellbeing.
- Supporting you the entire journey even through to labor:
A recent meta-analysis also found that yoga was an effective complementary and alternative therapy in promoting vaginal births and shortening the first and second stages of labor (2). You are able to take advantage of the supportive care offered by Prenatal Yoga Instructors and Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists. Sessions can be adjusted per pregnancy stage and individualized needs, targeting stability for a growing baby and pliability needed for birth.
- Connecting with a Supportive Community:
Joining a prenatal yoga class provides you with a nurturing community of like-minded individuals who share your journey. Connect with other expectant birthers and navigate the joys and challenges of pregnancy.
Limited slots available, so don’t delay! Call 301-381-4551 for more information. Or, click link below to reserve your space:
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Corrigan, L., Moran, P., McGrath, N. et al. The characteristics and effectiveness of pregnancy yoga interventions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 22, 250 (2022).
Ng QX, Venkatanarayanan N, Loke W, Yeo W-S, Lim DY, Chan HW, et al. A meta-analysis of the effectiveness of yoga-based interventions for maternal depression during pregnancy. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2019;34:8–12.