In today’s episode, Dr. Toni talks with physiotherapist Kirstyn Richards about what women need to know about their pelvic health to help heal from labour, C-sections and more. Pelvic health is not just about doing your Kegels! Treatments can support those suffering from painful intercourse, prolapse, diastasis recti, stress incontinence and bowel issues. Listen to find out when it is time to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist.

Kirstyn Richards is a new mom and pelvic health physiotherapist practicing in Calgary at Moss Postpartum House who focuses on helping women thrive during their pregnancy, prepping them for birth and aiding in their postpartum recovery. Kirstyn received her Masters of Physiotherapy from the University of Alberta after working in the field of orthopedics, pediatrics and chronic pain. 

In this episode, we cover:

  • What to expect from a pelvic floor physiotherapy visit
  • How a pelvic floor physiotherapist tailors your individual treatment so you can get your muscles working while you’re doing your regular daily activities
  • The difference between going to a doctor and a pelvic floor physiotherapist for pelvic issues
  • The importance of breath and relaxation for your pelvic health, especially if you experience pelvic pain
  • How tight muscles can actually cause weakness and pain in your pelvic area, as well as symptoms like leaking urine or bowel control, especially when you cough, laugh or sneeze
  • How you can visualize the muscles in your pelvic floor
  • Why women who have had C-sections could also benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy
  • A simple way to check how well your core can manage the pressure on your pelvic floor 

You can find Kirstyn’s virtual pelvic health resources through the Moss Postpartum House online class calendar and virtual classroom and check out her own personal postpartum journey on Instagram @kirstynrichardspt

Today’s Mama Must Have:

Kirstyn loves using an exercise ball to sit on for working on posture and increasing movement even while you’re working on a desk…plus often recommends the use of a vibrator to support pelvic floor muscles. 

Dr. Toni is a big fan of Tussiflorin herbal cough syrup to help reduce the kind of cough that can linger after the common cold and is relieved that her little one thinks it tastes yummy. Also, check out Episode 39 where Dr. Toni talks to Dr. Paul Anderson about immune support. 

Thank you for joining us today! 

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Stay safe and healthy everyone!