Pelvic health in pregnancy refers to the wellbeing and function of your muscles, joints, ligaments, nerves and organs in the pelvic region. As your body changes during pregnancy it is useful to know what is normal and when to seek guidance from your midwife.
Your pelvic floor muscles support your bladder, bowel and uterus. During pregnancy these parts of your body can weaken or become tighter. This can lead to leaking urine, experiencing pelvic and back pain and sometimes discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Hormonal changes can also loosen the ligaments around your pelvic area - a normal process to prepare your body for birth. This can sometimes cause pain (known as pelvic girdle pain) or instability.
The additional weight from growing your baby can add pressure to your bladder and digestive system, leading to symptoms like frequent urination, constipation and incontinence.
As your baby continues to grow, your posture may change, placing additional stress on your abdominal muscles, causing back pain, reducing your stability and balance.
If you look after your pelvic health in pregnancy, this can support labour and birth, as well as your recovery after your baby is born.
Find out more about your pelvic health by scanning the QR code in the image below or by clicking on this link Pelvic Health and Wellbeing during Pregnancy Videos | POGP
You can find more information about pelvic health and pelvic floor exercises in pregnancy and after birth in the links below.
