Pregnancy is a time of big changes for the female body. It is magical knowing that you are growing a human being within your body, feeling those first kicks and seeing your baby develop at every scan. Pregnancy is also a time which creates stress on the female body, with increasing blood volume, increasing weight and increasing pressure in our pelvis which can bring on issues for our circulation. [Read more]
As a Physiotherapist working with women through the lifespan I was more than aware of the incredible physical changes that occur postnatal and during pregnancy. To see and feel that loss of stability and control around your trunk and the separation (Diastisis of Rectus Abdomins Muscle/DRAM) within the abdominal muscles was still a very interesting experience, one that I can only liken to making me feel like a bowl of warm jelly… [Read more]
How long after having a baby should you start chasing the yummy mummy look? When should you reach to get your pre-baby body back? When should you fit back into your skinny jeans, rock the mini skirt or start modelling your bikini bod?
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In a world where cesarean sections are required in 26%-30% of births, instrument assisted vaginal deliveries are on the increase and well thought out birth plans are rarely played out, I ask my fellow men and women to please stop telling new mums that a healthy baby is all that matters!
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Not everyone feels so wondrous about the whole pregnancy experience. Nausea, fatigue, heartburn, swollen ankles and stretch marks take their toll. Pregnancy related pelvic pain is one “side effect” of pregnancy that certainly hits it’s fair share of victims. The research would suggest that around 20%-25% of women suffer from pregnancy related pelvic pain, but if you ask me, I would imagine the stats are much higher. Perhaps many cases go unreported or are not classified as “serious” and therefore are left out of the literature. I do however agree that while most women recover from these pains within the first 3 months post-natally (if not immediately after the baby is born), around 5-7% of women do not recover, and this is when you need to seek help… [Read More]
Having a baby is one of the most wonderful moments that life can bring. But it can be quite stressful. There are lots of decisions to be made in the weeks leading up to the birth of your baby; What will you name the baby? What hospital will you choose to deliver your baby at? And indeed… would you prefer to have a vaginal “natural” delivery, or choose to have a cesarean section? …. [Read More]