As you progress further through the postnatal year, returning to the other
activities you love can be very rewarding. High impact sports need to be
introduced gradually, so the body can adapt to the increased load. Muscular and
connective tissue strength will develop with exposure to gradual, regular
exercise loads. Cardiovascular fitness is also an important consideration as
fatigue leads to poor technique and injury. If you love running and jumping
sports, ensure you have a physiotherapy check prior to engaging in them. Your
risk of pelvic organ prolapse (descent of the organs into the pelvic floor) is
increased during the postnatal year as pelvic tissues have increased stretchiness
and can be damaged under load. A pelvic floor check can assess whether you are
at relatively low, moderate or high risk of prolapse with a few simple
measurements. Of course, if you are already experiencing back pain or
incontinence (this can be urinary, flatal or faecal), vaginal heaviness or dragging
at the end of the day treatment is a must!
Remember, stability of the spine, pelvis, abdomen, pelvic floor and pelvic organs
is a lifelong investment you’ll thank yourself for later.