Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful experiences in a woman’s life, but it can also be challenging and uncomfortable due to the physical changes in the body.

Fortunately, physiotherapy can help mitigate many of these issues associated with pregnancy.

What is Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy is a health care profession that helps people recover, maintain and improve their physical function.

It involves the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of movement disorders that may arise due to an injury, surgery, aging, disease, or pregnancy.

Changes in the Body during Pregnancy

Pregnancy puts significant stress on the body, especially on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. Here are some changes that women experience during pregnancy;.

Weight gain: As the fetus grows, it places more pressure on the spine, hips, knees, and ankles, leading to increased weight gain
Posture: The center of gravity shifts forward, causing an increased curve in the lower back
Hormonal changes: The body releases a hormone known as Relaxin, which softens the ligaments to help prepare the body for childbirth. However, it can also lead to instability in the joints
Swelling and Edema: Women can experience swelling in their feet and ankles due to fluid retention in the body
Urinary Incontinence: The growing baby can place pressure on the bladder, resulting in leakage of urine.

How can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy can help alleviate many of the symptoms associated with pregnancy. Here’s how:.

Pain Relief: Physiotherapists can use various techniques to relieve pain, such as manual therapy, acupuncture, and exercise therapy.
Improving Posture: Physiotherapists can teach women exercises to improve their posture to reduce strain on the spine and improve breathing function
Supporting the Pelvic Floor: Physiotherapists can help women maintain the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles, which can reduce the incidence of urinary incontinence and improve sexual function
Reducing Swelling and Edema: Physiotherapists can use massage, elevation, and compression stockings to reduce fluid retention, swelling, and discomfort in the feet and ankles
Pre and Post-Natal Exercise: Exercise plays a vital role in maintaining fitness levels and managing physical discomfort during pregnancy. Physiotherapists can prescribe exercises that are safe and effective during pregnancy and the post-natal period

When to Seek Physiotherapy Care?

Women should consider seeking physiotherapy care during pregnancy if they experience any of the following symptoms:.

Low back pain
Pelvic girdle pain
Urinary incontinence
Abdominal separation (Diastasis Recti)
Pain in the hips, knees, or ankles
Neck and shoulder pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Conclusion

Physiotherapy is a valuable tool in maintaining physical health and well-being during pregnancy. It can alleviate many of the symptoms associated with pregnancy and improve the quality of life for both the mother and baby.

If you’re experiencing any discomfort during pregnancy, consult a physiotherapist for professional care.