Frequently Asked Questions

Over the last 20 years I have been very fortunate to work across a wide variety of physiotherapy areas. But my two great passions are sports and women's physiotherapy, this allows me to offer a unique service that combines my skills of treating joint/muscular injuries during pregnancy but also any issues that may be experienced after birth such as leakage or prolapse and how to return to exercising safely. The journey continues as many women do not experience issues until menopause where I am able to offer support and conservative management options to allow you to live the life you want to.

Wear comfy clothes that allow you to move. No shoes are needed and I provide all equipment. Just bring a bottle of water and come as you are.

Absolutely and it is really encouraged:

The Australian Physical Activity Guidelines state "that all women who are pregnant without complication should be encouraged to participate in aerobic and strength conditioning exercises as part of a healthy lifestyle. A reasonable goal should be to maintain a good fitness level without trying to reach peak fitness."

If you are in good health and your pregnancy is uncomplicated the answer is usually yes. If you were a regular runner before, carry on running while you are pregnant, it's an easy and efficient way to work your heart and body. However, if you did not run before your pregnancy now is probably not the time to take it up.

If you experience any of the following whilst exercising:

• Abdominal pain

• Calf pain or swelling

• Chest pain

• Decreased foetal movement

• Dizziness

• Pelvic pain

• Painful uterine contractions

• Vaginal bleeding

If you have had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery it is generally safe to start completing some light exercise 1-2 days after the birth. This would include gentle walking, gentle abdominal exercises and pelvic floor exercises. If you are unsure as to how to complete these it is best to seek advice from a specialised Women's Health Physiotherapist. When you have stopped bleeding you can also try a gentle swim.

If you have had a complicated birth or a C section talk to your Obstetrician or Women's Health Physiotherapist about when to commence an exercise program. This is normally around the 6-8 week mark.

There is no specific research that shows exactly how long women should wait to run after giving birth. Experts say the amount of time it takes to return to pre-pregnancy fitness is directly related to how active you were before and during the pregnancy and it also depends of the type of birth you experienced. The time frames can vary from 6 months to a year and the expert advice universally states  - Take It Slowly.

Having urine leak while you are coughing or sneezing is a medical condition known as stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Around 13% of women between 19-44 will develop SUI and 36% aged 45-65 will develop the condition. It is caused by the weakening of the muscles that keep urine stored in the bladder. These muscles, known as the pelvic floor muscles, are unable to fight the downward abdominal pressure when you laugh, cough, sneeze or run.

The good news is that it is a very manageable condition though specialised pelvic floor physiotherapy and it is never too late to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles. If you are experiencing any problems it is best to start as soon as possible to prevent it having a greater effect on you living you life.

Your pelvic organs are made up of the bladder, uterus and rectum. These organs are supported in place by a network of connective tissue (fascia and ligaments) and pelvic floor muscles. Sometimes, particularly following childbirth, this connective tissue can be damaged and this alters the support to the organs and overtime they may begin to bulge or sag onto the vagina walls. You may experience a heavy sensation or dragging in the vagina, you may feel a bulge or a lump, your bladder may not empty as it should, you may find it hard to empty your bowels or you may have recurring urinary tract infections.

Prolapse can often be treated without surgery. A simple approach would involve pelvic floor muscle training where a program is developed for your individual needs. Lifestyle changes such as improving diet, fluid intake, losing weight and targeted exercise program for supporting muscles that includes abdominals and buttocks. Being aware of good toileting habits to avoid straining and the option of using a pessary (silicone rubber device that fits into the vagina) to help support the pelvic organs.