Postpartum Pelvic Floor Health With The Vagina Whisperer Dr. Sara Reardon

The Hole Shebang

In this conversation, Dr. Sara Reardon, a pelvic floor physical therapist, shares her journey and insights into pelvic health, particularly focusing on postpartum care. She emphasizes the importance of pelvic floor therapy for anyone who has been pregnant, discusses common postpartum issues, and provides practical advice for new mothers regarding exercise, recovery, and intimacy. The conversation highlights the need for better support systems for postpartum women and the significance of education in pelvic health. In this conversation, Dr. Sara Reardon and Kristen Parise discuss the complexities of postpartum recovery, focusing on physical and emotional health. They explore the importance of addressing postpartum pain, particularly related to C-sections, and the role of pelvic floor therapy in recovery. The discussion also highlights the emotional challenges women face during this period and the need for supportive spaces to share experiences. They emphasize the significance of self-care and knowledge in empowering women to navigate their postpartum journey effectively. Takeaways

• Dr. Reardon is a pelvic floor physical therapist with extensive experience since 2007.
• Pelvic health therapy is crucial for anyone who has been pregnant or given birth.
• Postpartum individuals often face challenges like urinary incontinence and diastasis recti.
• Rehabilitation should focus on healing in the early weeks postpartum.
• Walking is an excellent low-impact exercise for postpartum recovery.
• It's important to address pelvic floor symptoms before returning to high-impact activities like running.
• The first postpartum poop can be challenging; proactive measures can help.
• Education on pelvic health is essential for new mothers.
• Returning to intimacy should be approached with care and awareness of potential discomfort.
• Support systems for postpartum women need significant improvement. Low estrogen levels can cause tissue adhesion and pain.
• Many women suffer in silence with postpartum pain.
• C-section recovery can lead to pelvic pain due to fascia tightness.
• Scar massage is crucial for healing after a C-section.
• Pelvic floor therapy can significantly improve sexual health.
• It's important to address emotional health postpartum.
• Women often feel shame discussing pelvic health issues.
• Supportive spaces can help women unpack their birth experiences.
• Self-care is essential for postpartum recovery.
• Knowledge about pelvic health empowers women.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pelvic Health and Dr. Reardon's Journey 05:23 Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Floor Health 12:33 Navigating Postpartum Running and Exercise 18:19 The First Poop: Tips for Postpartum Women 22:00 Returning to Intimacy: Postpartum Sexual Health 24:22 Understanding Postpartum Pain and Treatment Options 32:07 Connecting with Core Strength and Pelvic Floor 36:14 The Emotional Journey of Postpartum Recovery 42:07 Empowering Women Through Knowledge and Support