W1 - Protecting the Pelvic Floor During Pregnancy, Birth and Postpartum: Putting Physiology in Practice

Abstract

to gain an understanding of the prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of core and pelvic floor disorders throughout pregnancy, labour, birth and postpartum. this interactive workshop will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of the physiology of the core and pelvic floor during pregnancy, birth and postpartum. You will learn practical techniques to assist women in protecting their core and pelvic floor during these stages, including how best to support physiological birth and what we can do when interventions occur. We will also cover techniques and realities for postpartum healing and evidence-based advice to managing existing conditions. Up to 75% of women will experience a prolapse in their lifetime. 1 in 3 will experience urine incontinence and 1 in 10 anal incontinence. Around 60% of women experience diastasis recti. Add in pelvic girdle pain, a hypertonic pelvic floor, perineal and vulva trauma, vaginismus, vulva varicosities, anal fissures and haemorrhoids and most women, at some point, will describe their body as feeling broken. Midwives play a crucial role in assisting women in the prevention and treatment of these core and pelvic floor conditions. Australian guidelines and clinical standards advise that pregnant and postpartum people should be doing pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT). This however, is not just as simple as doing Kegels while waiting at traffic lights. In order to provide best care, midwives need a deeper understanding of the physiology of the core and pelvic floor in pregnancy, birth and postpartum. this workshop will enable midwives to confidently care for and advise people on how to protect their core and pelvic floor and manage related issues.