During and after pregnancy it is very important to maintain the
strength and health of your pelvic floor to prevent urinary incontinence.
If early damage to the pelvic floor is left untreated, subsequent
pregnancy may cause additional damage thereby increasing the risk of developing urinary incontinence.
Neglect of the pelvic floor muscles can result in poor support of the bladder, uterus and rectum resulting in prolapse of these organs.
Correct pelvic floor muscle exercises (also called Kegels)
* Help to heal the vaginal region and hemorrhoids by decreasing bruising and swelling and increasing circulation
* Tighten the muscles that were stretched during childbirth
* Increase the strength of the pelvic floor to support the organs
* Enhance sexual sensation for both partners
Many women perform the exercises incorrectly. Be sure you know the
correct technique. For Physiotherapy treatment of the pelvic floor for the
prevention or treatment of urinary incontinence contact:
Victoria Dawes Registered Physiotherapist.
416 421-2360
vickidawes@hotmail.com
Are you pregnant or a new mom? I need your help!
Being active during pregnancy and the postnatal period is an important lifestyle decision that has positive health implications for most women. However, there is much we still don’t know about the initiation and maintenance of activity during this lifestyle transition.
I am looking for expectant or new moms (within 1 year postnatal) who are either active, inactive, or who would like to become active to participate in an online research study. Participation in the study is very easy and involves answering a few questionnaires, online at www.preandpostnatalhealth.com.
As an incentive to participate, there is a draw for $250 cash at the end of the study. Increase your chances of winning with every questionnaire you complete! In addition, there are monthly draws for $50 gift certificates, including retailers such as Toys ’R Us, Bonnie Togs, Winners and Wal-Mart.
For more information about the study contact Anita at gardna@mcmaster.ca.
