A cross-sectional survey study by Forner et al. 2020, conducted through an online reporting survey of nearly 4,000 women looked at the prevalence of participants who reported pelvic organ prolapse symptoms (14%), defined as sensation of the vagina bulge, and the associated risk factors in women who lifted light (<15kg), moderate (16-50kg), or heavy (>50kg)...
A perineal tear is a tear in the skin or muscle between the vaginal opening and anus that commonly occurs during a vaginal delivery. It is estimated that 85% of women who give birth vaginally will experience a perineal tear to some degree (Smith et al. 2013). Just like other muscle tears in the body,...
After talking to many midwives and doulas around Boulder Country and listening to patients’ birth stories, it is clear to me that every labor and delivery is different. No two births are completely alike. While there are some aspects of labor and delivery that you cannot control, here is a list of things you can...
If you’ve ever experienced the sharp, nagging discomfort of tailbone pain, you know how it can overshadow even the simplest daily activities. From sitting at your desk at work to walking up and down the aisles at the grocery store, every movement can be a reminder of the pain. Thankfully, there are steps you can...
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when there is a lack of support from the muscles or connective tissues around the bladder, rectum or uterus (if applicable). Symptoms can include: sensation of pelvic heaviness or pressure in the vagina or rectum, incomplete emptying of the bladder or rectum, and more outlined here. Risk factors for prolapse include:...
Dyspareunia or pain with intercourse is common after having a baby. An estimated 50% of women report pain with intercourse 3 months after delivery and 17% still report discomfort at 6 months postpartum (Buhling et al, 2006). More severe perineal injuries correlate with more persistent pain, however women who undergo a C-section delivery may also...
Do you experience urinary leaking with jumping jacks, double-unders, box jumps or while jumping on the trampoline? Maybe you’re avoiding jumping altogether for fear of leaking or pelvic heaviness. Jumping is a great exercise as it helps build muscle strength and power, while challenging the cardiovascular system. It requires coordination, agility, and can be beneficial...
Diagnosis: Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is musculoskeletal pain that occurs at either SI joint, the pubic bone, the groin, or some combination. PGP is very common during pregnancy, affecting between 52-70% of the pregnant population, particularly during late pregnancy. As with many musculoskeletal dysfunction during pregnancy it is common, but it does not have to...
6 Ways to Reduce Urge Related Urinary Incontinence By Berrin Boyce, PT, DPT, PRPC Urinary urge incontinence or leaking with a strong sense of urge is estimated to impact 20-30% of women. In clinical practice I frequently work with patients of all genders and ages who experience urge related incontinence that interferes with work, school,...
How The Use of Forceps During Delivery Impacts Urinary Incontinence in the Postpartum Period By Berrin Boyce As a pelvic floor PT working in Boulder with many people during their pregnancies I often hear the question: “What can I do to decrease the risk of developing urinary incontinence or pelvic floor issues after delivery?” I...
