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Endermotherapy (LPG) for the treatment of scars

22nd August 2023 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, News, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Blogs

Endermotherapy (LPG) for the treatment of scars

What is Endermotherapy (also know as LPG)?

LPG is a machine that does therapeutic massage using mechanised negative pressure vacuum, in combination with suction, rolling and kneading movements. It gently lifts and stretches tissues while massaging the muscles. It is a patented treatment for injuries to muscles, tendons, fascia, nerves and their surrounding soft tissues. LPG was developed in France and stands for Louis Paul Guitay, the inventor of this technique.

Improved Lymphatic Drainage

The LPG ‘massage’ affects the connective tissue stimulating blood vessels and the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system is often overlooked, although it’s essential for our health. A poorly functioning lymphatic system may cause toxins and waste to accumulate. Congested lymphatic nodes also cause weakness and tiredness.

The LPG stimulates the lymphatic system to improve the drainage of lymphatic fluid by around 300%, helping to eliminate lactic acid and other inflammatory toxins from the body. This will increase the levels of oxygen and nutrients, which encourage healing. Improved lymphatic drainage creates a stronger immune system, reduced fluid retention and swelling and improves metabolism.

Enhances and increases circulation

The folding and rolling of the tissue significantly increases circulation blood flow by around 400% for up to 6 hours. Extra blood circulation eliminates waste faster and supplies nutrients more quickly. This will ensure healthier skin, increased distribution of oxygen to cells, and better cell growth.

People often feel more energised after treatment due to the release of endorphins and increased blood circulation.

Fascia and myofascial restrictions

Fascia is a membranous structure under the skin, it surrounds our organs and muscles and suspends organs in their cavities. It is a strong fibre that can loosen or become too stiff. This can happen with inflammation, trauma, surgery and scar tissue which can become tight or bound causing fibrosis and adhesions. The techniques required to treat this tissue must be much different from those that treat other systems and areas of the body. The specially designed rollers of the LPG gently lift and stretch the fascia to address fascial restrictions. The connective tissue becomes smoother and softer.

Scar tissues treatment

The LPG is excellent for treating scars. The LPG loosens and improves mobility of the scar tissues. Scar tissue and fibrous adhesion reduction becomes smoother at an accelerated rate. We use it in the treatment of various types of scars, for example for c-sections scars to reduce pulling and tightness, but also flatten the scar so reducing the ‘shelf’ that some people complain of.

The LPG is a personalised treatment that is adapted to the skin sensitivity of the individual. It should not be painful or leave marks. Any redness should
not last longer than a few seconds. In clinic, I mainly use it in the treatment of scar tissue and fascial tightness, as well as reducing adhesions caused by surgery, trauma and managing the symptoms of conditions such as Endometriosis.

The LPG has also been shown to be helpful in managing the symptoms of conditions such as Oedema, Lipidema, Fibromyalgia, muscle tension and repetitive strain injuries. It is an FDA approved method of high intensive connective tissue/ lipomassage and as such is also used in the beauty industry to stimulate the skin and its underlying cells to bring about multiple benefits such as reduced cellulite, smoother skin tone and reduced waste products in the muscles. This all contributes to toning the connective tissue and breaking down fat deposits. It can be used to create a healthy skin tone and texture, ensures greater hydration and plumpness, making the skin firmer and reducing wrinkles. We are not using it for these purposes in clinic though!

There are some instances, conditions or areas of the body where it would not be appropriate to use this mode of treatment, but your health care professional would check that before suggesting treatment.

If you would like to find out if this treatment could be helpful for you, contact us now to book in for a consultation on 07805 354110 or email [email protected]

Caesarean Section Recovery Tips

22nd March 2023 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Blogs

Caesarean Section Recovery Tips

33% of women give birth via Caesarean section. It is major abdominal surgery, the incision cuts through 7 layers including muscle. Then women go home after a couple of days and need to recover, whilst caring for a newborn! This is not always that easy and for some women the recovery is harder than they had anticipated.

Early Days Recovery from a Caesarean Section:

It is so important to allow yourself to recover from the pregnancy, birth and the surgery. For a planned C-section, you may have had time to set up support for when you come home, but many have an unplanned c-section and help is not always available. It can be useful to have some tips to help you through those first days and weeks.

Pain control – take regular pain relief as prescribed, especially in the first couple of weeks when the wound can be painful or uncomfortable.

Get moving – Gentle movements, even within the first 24hours, such as getting up and out of bed is important for blood circulation and healing. If you are taking pain relief, this will be easier. Be gentle and only do what you feel comfortable with, gradually increasing the amount of movement and walking you do each day.

Bed transfers – To get out of bed, roll onto your side and push yourself up with your arms. To get into bed do the same in reverse, lowering yourself down onto your side using your arms and then roll onto your back with your knees bent.

Rest – Rest is vital for recovery, so delegate chores, and whenever you are able to, rest. This is difficult to do when you have a new-born, and especially hard if you also have a toddler or two, so ask for help and allow your body a chance to recover.

Wound care – Keep the wound as clean and dry as possible. If you notice it is oozing, it’s extremely painful and you are feeling unwell, seek medical help as soon as possible.

Breathing – Take regular deep breaths breathing into your tummy to allow your diaphragm to move and keep your lungs clear.

Hydration– Keep hydrated and eat well. Your body need nutrients and water to heal. This will help you avoid constipation. Although some of the pain medication can cause constipation, so you may need to take a laxative or alter your diet to help while taking it.

You may find it helpful to raise your feet on a footstool and breath out while opening your bowels.

Longer Term Recovery from a Caesarean Section:

Many women recover well, but some may suffer with various symptoms that can include scar pain, scar numbness or altered sensation and pulling or tightness in and around the scar. They can also suffer with urinary problems, constipation, back or pelvic pain and pain during intercourse. Many women do not think that C-section deliveries can cause such issues, so do not realise they can be helped

It is so important to get help with scar tissue if you have symptoms months or even years later.

Scar tissue is made up of collagen fibres which are fibrous connective tissues which repair the damaged fibres in the body. However, scar tissue can lead to adhesions , altered posture, restricted circulation and dysfunction. Many women also complain of a scar ‘shelf’ that persists.

Scar tissue can be successfully treated with specialist physiotherapy. Breaking down the scar tissue with massage creates mobility in and around a scar. This prevents or breaks down adhesions and can help promote collagen synthesis, healing and recovery.

A specialist physiotherapist will look at the scar and fascial mobility, pain and how to reduce it, as well as muscle function.

Scar massage can be taught to new mums to practise on themselves, but for many, touching or even looking at the scar is too difficult. A physiotherapist can help with this. Dealing with the emotional side of birth is as important as the physical recovery.

Your abdominal muscles will also be weak and you may need abdominal muscle strengthening and pelvic floor rehabilitation. I know you may think you have escaped the need for this as you did not have a vaginal delivery, but you have still had a pregnancy which will have affected the pelvic floor. You need to recover not just from birth but from pregnancy too!

Recovering from birth is not always easy. If you are affected by any of these issues, please contact us and book yourself in for a Mummy MOT. We are here to help on 07805 354110 or [email protected]

Perineal Tears

13th February 2023 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Blogs

During birth, vaginal tears are very common. Most deliveries cause some degree of tearing, though severe tears are quite rare.

What is a perineal tear?

The perineum is between the vagina and anus. A tear can happen at a vaginal delivery, and will happen spontaneously as the vagina and perineum stretch. Sometimes tears can happen inside the vagina, along the vaginal walls, or at other parts of the vulva or labia.

What types of tear are there?

Tears can be of different severity and are graded accordingly. The types of perineal tear include:

First-degree tear: A tear to the skin only. Although they are small and not dangerous, they can be painful and sting a lot. They usually heal quickly and without treatment, often not requiring treatment and are unlikely to cause long-term problems.

Second-degree tear: It is the most common type of tear. A tear into the muscle of the perineum. They usually require stitches. They are unlikely to cause long-term problems, but can be painful and swollen initially.

Third-degree tear: A tear that extends into the muscle that controls the anus (the anal sphincter) and which is the pelvic floor muscle.

Fourth-degree tear: This is the least common type of tear. It extends further into the internal anal sphincter lining, the anus or rectum.

A rectal buttonhole: This is a rare injury that occurs when the anal sphincter does not tear, but there is a hole between the back passage and the vagina. Wind and faeces may pass through the vagina instead of through the anus.

What can cause a tear?

Tears are more common in women having vaginal delivery for the first time. If the delivery is very long or extremely quick. It can also happen if the baby is large or delivers in a difficult position such as if their shoulder gets stuck (shoulder dystocia), or if they are born with their hand up by their head. The risk is also increased in cases where ventouse or forceps are used to assist the delivery. It’s not always possible to predict or avoid and a tear is not necessarily anyone’s fault

Are perineal tears common?

Up to 9 in 10 first-time mums who have a vaginal birth will have some sort of tear, graze or episiotomy. The Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists says that, for most women, these tears are minor and heal quickly.

Third- or fourth-degree tears can occur in 6 out of 100 births (6%) for first-time mothers and less than 2 in 100 births (2%) of births for women who have had a vaginal birth before.

What is an episiotomy?

An episiotomy is a cut made by the doctor or midwife into the perineum to create more space for your baby to deliver and is often done to prevent a more serious tear. It is usually done at an angle and will need stitches to repair.

How long will it take to heal?

It is normal to feel pain or soreness for 2 to 3 weeks after having any tear. The stitches may also irritate and it may sting when you pass urine. They may also feel a little itchy.

The skin part of the wound usually heals within a few weeks of giving birth. If you have a third or fourth degree tear, this may take longer to heal and you may be given antibiotics to prevent infection in the area of the stitches. Stitches will dissolve on their own within 6 weeks.

What can I do while the tear heals

Keeping the tears as clean and dry as possible is important. You can use a peri-bottle to keep yourself clean when passing urine and even pour water over the area while you pee, this can stop it from stinging. Pat yourself dry with toilet paper instead of wiping. Try to avoid constipation and straining.
Ice packs over your underwear can help reduce swelling.
Gentle rhythmic pelvic floor exercises, within pain limitations, help increase the blood flow to the area and promote healing.

What are the complications of a tear?

Pain, bleeding and infection are the immediate complications of tears. Signs of an infection will be a fever, pain that does not ease with medication and stitches that smell. In such cases you should go to your GP or healthcare provider.

Third- or fourth-degree tears, although less frequent, are commonly associated with increased risk of faecal and urinary incontinence, pain, and sexual dysfunction associated with these symptoms that can persist long after giving birth. Severe tears that affect the anal sphincters may cause symptoms of poor bowel control include leaking stool or not being able to hold in wind.

What treatment is available for symptoms of tears?

Your GP or healthcare provider will be able to offer some help and support. Specialist women’s health physiotherapy can help with symptoms of pain and incontinence. Once the scars have healed, physiotherapy may include scar tissue massage or other treatments such as therapeutic ultrasound which can help break down the scar tissue and reduce pain. A full assessment will enable a physiotherapist to tailor treatment specifically to you needs.

If you would like support or help please get in touch…

What is Endometriosis and how can physiotherapy help?

23rd January 2023 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, News, Vaginal and Pelvic Blogs

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of the uterus. Endometriosis is diagnosed via laparoscopy, but women often suffer a long history of problems before they are diagnosed. Although it affects one in ten women, nearly 75% of women with Endometriosis experience misdiagnosis. Women with Endometriosis have an average of 2-5 surgical procedures related to it.

Symptoms of Endometriosis

Symptoms of Endometriosis may vary from person to person and in severity from mild, to life limiting and debilitating. Symptoms of Endometriosis may include painful and heavy periods, pain during sex, low back pain, constipation or bladder and bowel symptoms. Interstitial Cystitis commonly occurs alongside Endometriosis and is a very specific issue concerning the bladder lining. Symptoms are often worsened according to hormone levels and stress can play a part in increasing pain or symptoms.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition and requires a combination of management and treatment of the disease. Laparoscopic excision of endometrial lesions is the gold standard treatment, performed by a Gynaecologist who has specialist training in this surgery.

How can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy cannot cure Endometriosis, but can help alleviate or relieve some of the symptoms. In your first physiotherapy session we would find out all about your story and what has brought you to this point, discussing what your goals are and how to tailor treatment to help you achieve them.

Physiotherapy treatment for Endometriosis

We will often start with teaching optimum breathing techniques. This is important for reducing stress levels and stimulating the Vagus nerve. This calms your nervous system, bringing your body out of ‘fight or flight’ mode and into ‘rest, recover and restore’ mode.

We will discuss exercise, stretches and movement which will help mobilise the tissues and has the added benefit of improving mental health.

We will then determine whether the pelvic floor muscles or abdominal muscles are contributing to your symptoms. Treatment varies from person to person, but this may include manual techniques where we can help to mobilise the muscle, fascia, nerves, scar tissue, adhesions, trigger points and internal organs (viscera). Often the pelvic floor is held in tension or spasm as a response to pain. This ‘overactive’ pelvic floor will contribute to symptoms of internal vaginal pain. This can be relieved with internal release work, down training the pelvic floor or teaching the use of devices to help you continue to manage the symptoms yourself at home.

Endermotherapy/LPG treatment for Endometriosis

Endermotherapy or LPG is a mechanised deep massage treatment that uses suction and rollers with a negative pressure, mobilising the skin, fat, and fascia covering muscles. It is specially designed to mobilise the layers of tissue by gently lifting and stretching the tissues, enhancing circulation, increasing blood flow, and stimulating the venous and lymphatic systems to remove lactic acid and other inflammatory toxins.

This type of treatment can help to reduce fibrosis (hardened tissue), scar tissue, adhesions and muscle tension. It therefore can be ideal for treating some symptoms of Endometriosis and help reduce pain.

If you are experiencing any symptoms that you think may be associated with Endometriosis, please do get in touch for a consultation on to discuss this with a specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapist. We are also able to refer you onto a specialist Gynaecologist if this is required.

Looking After Your Pelvic Floor

7th January 2022 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, Urinary blogs, Vaginal and Pelvic Blogs

Looking After Your Pelvic Floor

Sometimes it’s good to go back to basics and not assume that everyone knows what the Pelvic floor muscles are, where they are located, how they function or how to exercise them. Unfortunately, this is something most of us were not taught at school and possibly have not been told about since. Let’s dispel some myths and give you some basic facts.

Pelvic floor facts

No, you don’t have to ‘get on the floor’ to do your exercises
Yes, men have pelvic floor muscles too
You’re never too old to do pelvic floor exercises

What is the Pelvic Floor?

It is a group of muscles going from the coccyx at the base of your spine to the symphesis pubis, (pubic bone) at the front of your pelvis. It forms a sling or hammock of muscle which effectively creates the ‘floor’ of your pelvis. It has 3 holes in it, the urethra at the front, the vagina in the middle and the anus at the back and the muscle wraps around each of these openings.

What does the pelvic floor do?

The pelvic floor has multiple functions, which include supporting the pelvic organs; the bladder, bowel and uterus. It keeps us continent, tightening the sphincters, both bladder and bowel, assists in pelvi-spinal stability by stabilising our core, and of course contributes to sexual function for sex and orgasm.

Pelvic floor dysfunction

This is extremely common and can range from mild symptoms to life changing, serious issues. Most women at some point in their lives experience some form of pelvic floor dysfunction for various reasons.

Dysfunction can cause problems such as incontinence (bladder or bowel – including little leaks when you laugh or difficulty controlling wind), pelvic pain, painful intercourse, prolapse and overactive bladder.

What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?

There can be many different reasons why someone may experience an issue with their pelvic floor. These may include hormonal changes such as during pregnancy, breast feeding, menopause, childbirth, chronic coughing or respiratory problems, constipation, heavy lifting, high impact exercise, obesity, genetic factors or trauma (physical and or emotional). That does not mean that these will always create pelvic floor dysfunction, but they could, and often it is a combination of factors that may create a problem.

The good news…

In many cases, pelvic floor dysfunction can be successfully treated. Conservative treatment such as physiotherapy with a specially trained therapist can alleviate and often cure symptoms without the need for further medical intervention. In cases where conservative treatment is not enough, it can make medical treatment more successful or last longer. As with many problems like this, it is easier to treat when symptoms begin and are still mild, so it is best to seek help before the problem becomes more serious.

Is it all about pelvic floor strength?

No. It is important to have a strong pelvic floor yes, but it also needs to release and let go so it is not in spasm, which can cause pain. It also needs to be able to ‘kick in’ quickly when needed such as if you cough or sneeze, so coordination is also important. We also need to think about endurance. It’s no good if our muscle is strong but fatigues too quickly.

Women’s health physiotherapy

A women’s health physiotherapist is specially trained in assessing and treating the pelvic floor. They can help you learn how to do pelvic floor exercises correctly and effectively, but more importantly, give you specific exercises suited to you personally. If you would like advice from a specialist to improve your pelvic floor. It’s never to early or too late. Contact us now on 01242 522136

What is Urinary Retention?

7th January 2022 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, Urinary blogs

What is Urinary Retention?

Do you fully empty your bladder when you go to the loo? Sometimes when you go, do you feel like you can’t get the last bit out, or do you get up after going and dribble a bit when you stand up? What about if you’ve been to the loo, but a few minutes later you feel like you need to go again and you pass a bit more second time round? Or is it painful when you pass urine, giving a burning sensation? Sound familiar? It may be that you are suffering from urinary retention. This is a condition where you have difficulty fully emptying your bladder.

Does it really matter?

Well, when we don’t fully empty, the urine hangs around in the bladder and can cause urinary tract infections. Some women that suffer from recurrent urinary tract infections may find that it could be because they have not fully emptied. Also, it can cause urgency (needing to rush to the loo), and frequency (going way too often), which can be annoying when mild, but when severe, it can be quite debilitating. In extreme cases, it is very hard to recover from and retained urine can build up causing kidney problems.

The problem is, that if we keep going to the loo to empty, we can get to a stage where we have to go more and more often. Our bladder gets used to holding smaller and smaller amounts and sends you the message that you need to go when it is not that full. Then we start to notice that we can’t go anywhere without checking where the nearest loos are and before you know it, every outing starts to revolve around the convenience and availability of toilets.

What causes urinary retention?

It may be that the pelvic floor muscles are too weak, but it may also be that they are too tight. Another cause could be pelvic organ prolapse. The bladder may be sitting a little lower than usual and that can be making it harder to fully empty.

What can physiotherapy do to help?

Often, when you have explained the issues and how and when they started, it can give a really good indication of what the cause could be. It may be that there are some practical things you can do to alleviate symptoms. During an examination, any other causes can be assessed and treated.

Urinary retention is one of those problems that can have a huge impact on your everyday life and if it can be treated successfully you really can have your life back! So if you have any concerns at all or bladder control is impacting on your life, don’t delay in contacting us at Physiotherapy for Women for advice on 01242 522136

Vaginal Dryness

10th December 2021 by Kelly Filed Under: Blog, Vaginal and Pelvic Blogs

Vaginal Dryness – Don’t ignore it or suffer in silence.

‘If you have a vagina there is an 80% chance that you will experience dryness at some point in your life!’

This is much more common than many think and can cause problems that many women just put up with and are unlikely to chat about with friends over a coffee. (Well maybe after a
few gins if you’re feeling brave enough!) It may not seem like a big deal, but it can actually cause daily discomfort or soreness, irritation, burning, stinging or bleeding and can lead to
painful sex (dyspareunia) or persistent pelvic pain.

What causes vaginal dryness?

Vaginal dryness is not necessarily about a lack of arousal and is actually very common in the postnatal period, especially if you are breast feeding. It is also common during perimenopause and
post menopause. This is due to hormonal changes or low oestrogen levels, which is natural. Some might even notice being dryer at certain times of the month. It can also be caused by fatigue, (who could be more tired than a new mum?) anxiety, depression and stress. These can all be factors that make it hard to ‘get in the mood’ and will affect the body’s ability to lubricate itself. Some infections or illnesses such as cancer and its treatments can cause vaginal dryness. Some medications can also affect it, including some contraceptive pills . (I’m sure their effectiveness was not intended to put women off sex altogether, by making it painful) There are also certain anti-depressants and medications treating incontinence that can affect your hormones, thus creating vaginal dryness. Equally, it could simply be due to scented soaps or washing powders that can affect the pH of the vagina and resulting in vaginal dryness.

What can you do about it?

You could try changing to use unperfumed products to see if that helps. If not, of course firstly, if you are suffering with any of these symptoms, it is important to be assessed by a professional to rule out any other conditions or causes. If stress and anxiety are a factor, then try creating some time to take the pressure off, de-stress, relax and reconnect with your partner. Dietary changes can help, supplements such as oral soy or probiotics that enhance vaginal health, but it would be wise to consult a nutritionist or naturopath for advice on this.

You can also try using something to ease the dryness by using a vaginal lubricant or vaginal moisturiser. They restore the natural vaginal pH, are absorbed by the vaginal tissue to hydrate, protect and moisturise vaginal and vulval tissue, effectively soothing the area. Vaginal lubricants during intercourse are key. You can use water-based lubricants if using condoms and oil based if not using condoms, or you can use a combination of both, creating a ‘double glide’! I recommend you choose a natural organic product.

Some women require vaginal oestrogen treatment which is highly effective and can be prescribed by the GP or a gynaecologist. The main thing is, you do not need to live with the symptoms and you can get help and advice. Please contact me if you would like to discuss this further or for a specialist Gynaecologist contact Practice for Women.

Learn how to restore the core & optimise your pelvic health during the postpartum stage.

1st October 2018 by Louise Rahmanou Filed Under: Blog, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Blogs

POSTNATAL EVENT WITH CLARE LOUGHNANE AT STUDIO 13!!

25th NOVEMBER 4pm – 6.15pm

This workshop will include 75mins of Postnatal yoga and guided meditation with Pre and Postnatal yoga teacher Clare Loughnane.

Plus a 60 min session with Louise Rahmanou .

During this time Louise & Clare will cover ;

Pelvic floor re-training and strengthening exercises.

Specific exercises to reduce and restore abdominal strength and tummy gap.

Along with general advice for postpartum body health .

Yoga poses & practices specific to core recovery and pelvic floor rehabilitation.

What is the pelvic floor & core:
Understand the core muscles as a group, impacts of pregnancy and how they work as a cohesive system

How to tell if something is wrong: Common signs and symptoms of core dysfunction

Recovering physically:
Understanding the changes in your body and how to heal

Returning to exercise:
The low-down on how to safely return to exercise post baby

Pranayama for calming and restoring energy , good to do whilst feeding etc ..

The workshop is suitable for all postnatal ladies from six week and upwards ( yes you can come if you have a 4yr old!)

Tickets £35

Fit4Life Mama EVENT!

1st October 2018 by Louise Rahmanou Filed Under: Blog, Pregnancy and Post-Partum Blogs

This is no ordinary antenatal workshop! This day long workshop will teach you how to keep yourself fit and healthy, from the inside out, throughout your pregnancy and beyond. Kate Dimmer, Registered Nutritionist & Nutritional Therapist, will teach you how to eat for optimal health throughout your pregnancy (including coping with carb cravings during that nauseating first trimester) and how to continue to nourish your body postpartum, to boost your immune system and to ensure that you’re able to get through the day on very little sleep! Louise Rahmanou, Registered Women’s Health Physiotherapist, will teach you how to take care of your pelvic floor and core both during pregnancy and postpartum, including addressing diastasis recti (commonly known as ab separation) with some practical pelvic floor re-training and strengthening exercises. You will learn why it is vital that you understand that it is common to leak postpartum but it is not normal and certainly not something that you have to live with! Finally, Nicki Ryder, Qualified Personal Trainer with extended training in Pregnancy & Postpartum Fitness, will educate you on exercise both during pregnancy and postpartum; what is safe, what should be avoided, why glute health is paramount and as if that’s not enough, you will spend the last 30 minutes of the day practicing exercises that are safe throughout all stages of your journey, so that you are armed with knowledge on how to do them from home. This workshop isn’t just for mamas-to-be, it’s also for new mums or any mum struggling with their nutrition, pelvic floor and fitness. The value of all of this is £300! But we’re giving you MORE! You will be provided with refreshments on arrival, enjoy a nutritious lunch, take away a fabulous goody bag and the presenters will be providing you with heaps more to takeaway, so that you don’t need to worry about remembering what you’ve learned throughout the day because “baby brain”! The price to attend is just £90 per person and we are offering a 10% early-bird booking discount until October 5th.

https://www.tickettailor.com/events/fitinsideout/201593#

Don’t Make Me Laugh

6th January 2018 by Sam Filed Under: Blog, Urinary blogs

Don’t make me laugh… I might wet myself!!

I was recently out for drinks with a bunch of mums from my sons school class, after a few, (possibly too many), one mum burst out laughing, then, trying to hold back, she blurted ‘don’t make me laugh so hard… I’m going to wet myself’!

That comment opened the flood-gates (pardon the pun)! And one by one everyone started admitting they too might leak if they laughed too hard, another claimed she also worries if she sneezes and then another shared her fear of being asked by her daughter to bounce on her trampoline as she’s sure to have an accident then, which incidentally would do little to help potty train her toddler, wanting to lead by example and all that!…. this lead to more raucous laughter… with legs tightly crossed!

Some of them didn’t realise that I am a women’s health physiotherapist and needless to say we spent the next part of the evening with me collectively teaching pelvic floor exercises and offering group sessions to be held at the school gates promising to get those mums back on the trampoline!

The sad reality is that this seems to be one of those things that no one really talks about – we might meet up with our mummy mates and have a natter about the baby’s ‘incontinence’ but wouldn’t dream of broaching the subject of our own. We might laugh along with jokes that, as mums of little’uns, were never ‘up for it’ at bed time, but would we really share that the real reason might also, in part be, because the scars from delivery feel like they’ re going to split open, still hurt or I’m actually worried they sewed me up too tight or not tight enough and I feel like I’m massive ‘down there’, or ‘I’ve simply never quite felt the same since childbirth’. Who do you dare share that information with?

The truth is, I hadn’t realised how many of my friends actually thought, that even and odd leak, was normal and part of life post birth.

True?

Well no, it’s not true, it’s not normal and you don’t have to live with it because there is something you can do about it.

I know what its like – I’m a mum of two small (and gorgeous) boys. The day we leave hospital with our precious new borns we are handed a bag full of leaflets, one of them tells you about pelvic floor exercises and to practice them everyday. Who has the time between feeding, changing nappies, constant loads of washing and relentless sleep deprivation to sift through the mountain of literature, let alone read it and actually take any of the information in. It’s no wonder that most of us don’t realise the importance of this ‘tiny’ exercise.

Our bodies change incredibly during pregnancy to accommodate the developing new life inside us, but what about after? Our tummy muscles and pelvic floor muscles are weakened and stretched. And what about returning to exercise and feeling ‘normal’ again? Actually, not everyone recovers perfectly from pregnancy and childbirth. Some are left with urinary incontinence, difficulty controlling wind, prolapse, tummy muscle separation and weakness, back pain, pelvic pain and pain during intercourse.

I want to shout from the rooftops – ‘you’re not on your own’!

In France, all new mums are given a course of 10 sessions of postnatal physiotherapy. How about that? Here most women don’t even know such a service exists!

GP’s in the UK, even with the best will in the world, simply don’t have the time to give every new mum a full and comprehensive body check but that doesn’t mean you wouldn’t benefit from it and some careful after care. After all, if you don’t look after yourself, how can you look after your family?

The Mummy MOT is a service designed specifically to assess every new mum and enabling us to identify and treat all of these conditions or simply help you recover fully from pregnancy and childbirth. There are over 80 specially trained registered ‘Mummy MOT’ practitioners in the country, (check out: themummymot.com), and we are all passionate about helping mums to fully restore their bodies post birth. Women are given a personalised rehabilitation programme specially tailored for them.

One of the first ladies I treated after specialising in women’s health physiotherapy had been unable to have sex since the delivery of her daughter two years earlier because of painful perineal scar tissue. However understanding your partner is, that is bound to cause a strain on your relationship. After a course of treatment she came for a check up six weeks later and was pregnant – that was definitely one great success story!

And it’s not just for new mums, its never too late, it just saves a lot of suffering to catch it earlier or better still, prevent problems arrising. I really believe it’s about looking after the whole person; body, mind and emotions. A holistic, mindful approach allows us to explore and look after every part of our being.

My professional goal has become to make sure that every woman, whatever your age, can go ahead and laugh as hard as you like!