Written by Krista Silverwood, Physiotherapist
Are you or is someone you know pregnant? If so, we have some exciting news to share!
Introducing… Peak Prenatal, a comprehensive Peak Program designed to empower women to conquer all stages of pregnancy, labour, delivery, and postpartum!
My name is Krista, and I am a pelvic floor physiotherapist at Peak Oakbay. I see many women at different times throughout their journey through pregnancy or postpartum and most people have heard of pelvic floor physiotherapy but not everyone is sure what it can help with and when they should access it – during pregnancy or postpartum or only when they have an issue? We are firm believers that everyone can benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy starting during pregnancy and following into the postpartum period. Most people wish they had known about it sooner!
The Peak Prenatal program was created for the purpose of supporting and empowering women through a time of great change and focuses on building community. We provide you with knowledge, tools and resources so you know what to expect and how to manage new changes in pregnancy and postpartum.
Our prenatal physiotherapy services and pelvic floor therapy in Calgary are tailored to meet the unique needs of each woman throughout her journey.
What does the Peak Prenatal Program consist of?
– An initial 60 minute prenatal physiotherapy assessment and a 45 minute prenatal birth prep session to assess your pelvic floor and core, address pain and help prepare you for delivery
– A 45 minute re-evaluation after delivery to reassess your pelvic floor and core and determine a plan to help you reach your postpartum goals
– Four group education sessions led by pelvic floor physiotherapists with special guests to provide additional education on special services
– Take-home booklet filled with all you need to help you on your pregnancy journey
– Access to a specialty referral network of prenatal and postpartum specialists including massage therapists, chiropractors, lactation consultants, psychologists, and more
Will I need more than an assessment and follow-up before I give birth?
Potentially! If you struggle with engaging your pelvic floor muscles or would like some extra support managing pain through your pregnancy, you may benefit from additional sessions before delivery.
But don’t worry, with each assessment, you will have the opportunity to discuss your concerns and your goals with your pelvic floor therapist and come up with a plan that will work for you.
What will the education sessions include?
Education sessions will be 1 hour in length and offered in-person at Peak Oakbay on Saturdays. Each session is led by pelvic health physiotherapists and includes special guest speakers to provide information on additional services including Doula’s, Chiropractors, Massage Therapists and more!
Session 1: This introduction to pelvic health physiotherapy will include information about the pelvic floor function and anatomy, changes that occur during pregnancy, the basics of pelvic floor engagement, normal urinary and bowel frequency, and reviewing common myths associated with pregnancy.
Session 2: We will cover common pregnancy concerns such as pelvic girdle pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, abdominal separation (rectus diastasis), urinary incontinence, exercise, and how physical therapy can help.
Session 3: We will discuss labour and delivery and positioning for these, pelvic floor relaxation, and perineal massage.
Session 4: We will review all things postpartum such as when to see your pelvic floor therapist, exercise recommendations, bladder and bowel concerns, returning to sexual intercourse, C-section specific considerations, prolapse and pessaries, and what to consider with baby!
Who can benefit from this program?
The education sessions are designed with first time parents in mind, aiming to provide as much education as we can but those who are already parents will learn a lot as well! The 1:1 pelvic floor physiotherapy sessions are individualized and can focus on anything affecting you with your goals in mind.
Can I use my health benefits to pay for this?
Absolutely! You will be able to bill these sessions through physiotherapy or any additional health spending account you have access to. Our team will be happy to help you navigate this.
Next steps
The prenatal period can be an exciting time but also can be a time filled with a lot of uncertainty. Peak Prenatal is a program designed to help ease your concerns, answer your questions, and provide a community to support you throughout your pregnancy. Book your discovery call today to speak with Krista and learn more about Peak Prenatal.