What Does It Look Like to Rehabilitate One's Postpartum Body?

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What Does It Look Like to Rehabilitate One's Postpartum Body?

It dawned on me recently that I should view my pelvic floor injury from giving birth in a similar way: rehab the heck out of it, and do maintenance when it acts up!

Coming to this revelation took self-reflection. I resented the idea of perpetual maintenance of my pelvic floor. Why can't it just work? I also resisted viewing my experience giving birth as "traumatic" or that it injured me. Those words "injury" and "trauma" are so loaded, especially when it comes to the act of giving birth.

But, then I realized, I don't have to view giving birth as "either/or." Birthing my son was an intense, emotional, difficult, easy, magical, real, out-of-body, in-the-body experience. Regardless of what emotion I attach to the experience, the reality is that I did sustain a pelvic floor injury.

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5 Reasons Why I'm Still Rehabbing My Postpartum Injuries Years Later

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5 Reasons Why I'm Still Rehabbing My Postpartum Injuries Years Later

I had my son about three and a half years ago and I STILL have linger issues from that perinatal time in my life. The seven hours of pushing, vacuum assisted delivery, and third degree tearing no doubt have a lot to do with where I am now. As you might imagine, I had persistent vaginal pain, for months. The intensity of it lessened over time, but I was never really comfortable until I sought professional help.

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Don't Forget to Create a Post Birth Plan

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Don't Forget to Create a Post Birth Plan

You’ve heard of writing a birth plan, but have you thought about your preferences after delivery?

I know. I know. You’re sick of planning and writing things down in anticipation of something, for which no amount of preparation will fully prepare you.

Here’s the thing. A lot happens in the first 24-72 hours of giving birth, and while you think the hard part is done, it’s just the beginning.

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