When most people think of physiotherapy, they think of sports injuries and painful exercises to get back on their feet. Recently I had the opportunity to sit down with Karina Coffey a women’s health physiotherapist and co creator of Melbourne Pregnancy and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy to answer some common questions about when someone may need to see a physio during their pregnancy or after their baby is born. These women are so passionate about what they do and don’t want anyone to be suffering unnecessarily. If you have any questions after reading this post, please don’t hesitate to reach out to them, they will be so happy to help!
Karina, tell me about MPPP.
MPPP was started in mid-2017 by myself and my colleague and friend Rebecca Liberatore. For some time it had been our vision to create a specialist pregnancy and pelvic floor physio service for Melbourne’s North West. We are really passionate about what we do. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy, as a treatment modality, has high levels of evidence to support benefit for sufferers of pelvic floor disorders and yet, access to specialist services and the knowledge that help is available is limited, meaning many still suffer in silence. We believe that no one should have to put up with such incredibly debilitating and socially isolating symptoms. Since we started our we have grown to a team of 5 physiotherapists with a strong collective background working in both public and private settings with pregnant and post-partum women. We believe a real strength of our team is being able to provide a comprehensive understanding of the full spectrum of pelvic floor recovery from an acute presentation immediately post-natal or post-surgery through to a full return to function.
When would someone need to see a women’s health physiotherapist?
How do I know if I should see someone during pregnancy or after my baby is born?
If you fit any of the following criteria:
What are the benefits of doing mums and bubs pilates?
Clinical pilates differs from general pilates in that a program is tailored to your individual needs and developed using the specialist clinical knowledge of an experienced physiotherapist.
Clinical pilates can help you to:
· Regain muscle strength and tone
· Increase flexibility
· Build “core strength” and contribute to improved pelvic floor muscle function
· Improve energy levels and your sense of wellbeing
· Improve post-partum posture and postural awareness
· Give you the chance to get out of the house, socialise and meet like-minded mums in a baby friendly environment!
Is incontinence common after birth?
Do I need a referral to come and see a physiotherapist?
How do I contact you for an appointment?
You can book online at www.mppp.com.au, call us on 03 93379125 or visit us in person at 62 Dinah Parade, Keilor East.