On this episode of the Mindful Womb Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Brandie Freeman the number one pelvic floor therapist in the Metro Atlanta Area. With Dr. Brandie, we explore the importance of pelvic floor health and how it impacts how we birth, our recovery, and our daily lives!
In this episode, we dive into the following:
Signs you might need pelvic floor therapy
Myths that prevent people from getting pelvic floor support
How to release tension in the pelvic floor
Listen to the podcast now:
Pelvic floor therapy has been an eye-opening revelation in my journey towards understanding the complexities of women's health, especially during and after childbirth.
Welcome back to another episode of The Mindful Womb Podcast! In a recent insightful conversation I had with Dr. Brandie, a highly experienced pelvic floor therapist, the significance of this therapy both before and after giving birth was discussed in great detail.
Preparing for Birth - Embracing the Importance of Pelvic Floor Therapy
As someone who's experienced pregnancy, I know that the focus often tends to be on the imminent arrival of the baby rather than the necessary preparations for a smoother childbirth. Dr. Brandie articulated the importance of seeking pelvic floor therapy during pregnancy itself, shedding light on its relevance not just after childbirth but also before. The therapy assists in managing pelvic pain, preparing the body for labor, reducing the likelihood of tears during delivery, and addressing issues like diastasis recti. It’s about equipping oneself with knowledge and techniques that empower and make childbirth less daunting.
Dr. Brandie also dispelled the misconceptions around pelvic size being a significant factor in birthing complications, emphasizing that pelvic floor tension often poses more challenges. By addressing this tension through therapy, the body can better accommodate childbirth, debunking the myth that pelvic size is a determining factor.
Postpartum Recovery - Demystifying Misconceptions and Promoting Healing
The conversation expanded to encompass the myths surrounding postpartum recovery. Dr. Brandie debunked these myths, emphasizing that postpartum pelvic health encompasses a spectrum of concerns, ranging from urinary issues, bowel problems, and painful intercourse to diastasis recti.
Even in cases of C-section births, the significance of pelvic floor therapy remains invaluable. Dr. Brandie elucidated how the therapy aids in addressing abdominal muscle injuries, pelvic floor compensation, numbness issues, and scar tissue management. Post-C-section, pelvic floor therapy plays a pivotal role in restoring functionality and sensation, a fact often overlooked in post-surgical care.
Advocating for Early Intervention and Dispelling Misconceptions
Dr. Brandie highlighted the urgency of dispelling misconceptions about pelvic floor therapy. Seeking therapy early, even before noticeable issues arise, can prevent severe complications in the future. It's about addressing discomfort, incontinence, or pain early on to avoid lifelong complications.
Reflecting on my personal experience, I shared how pelvic floor therapy has transformed my digestive health, alleviated pain, and enhanced my overall well-being. It’s about understanding one's anatomy, releasing tension, and the empowerment gained through therapy that's truly life-changing.
A Holistic Approach to Women's Health
My conversation with Dr. Brandie emphasized the necessity of a more holistic approach to women's health. Pelvic floor therapy isn't merely about addressing immediate issues; it's a proactive step toward lifelong well-being, preventing future complications, and empowering individuals to take control of their health.
Dr. Brandie's expertise and my personal journey underscore the transformative impact of pelvic floor therapy, highlighting its role in prenatal preparation and postpartum recovery. Through education, early intervention, and dispelling myths, I advocate for a more inclusive approach to women's health care.
Embracing pelvic floor therapy as an integral part of women's health care promises improved quality of life, reduced pain, and a better understanding of our bodies throughout the childbearing years and beyond.
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