Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Care in Manhattan Beach
Pregnancy and childbirth place enormous demands on the pelvic floor, the group of muscles that supports your bladder, uterus, and bowel. Leaking when you laugh or exercise, pelvic heaviness, and pain with intimacy are common after birth, but they are not something you simply have to live with. At Cove Midwifery and Women's Health in Manhattan Beach, CA , we evaluate your symptoms, guide your recovery, and coordinate pelvic floor physical therapy when you need it.
What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction happens when these muscles are too weak, too tight, or not coordinating properly. During pregnancy, hormones and the growing weight of your baby stretch and strain the pelvic floor. Vaginal birth, long pushing stages, larger babies, and assisted deliveries can add to that strain. Cesarean birth does not fully protect against it either, because pregnancy itself affects these muscles.
Common Symptoms
- Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising
- Sudden urges to urinate or frequent urination
- A feeling of pressure, heaviness, or bulging in the vagina
- Pain during intercourse
- Difficulty controlling gas or bowel movements
- Low back or pelvic pain
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti) and core weakness
How We Help You Recover
Pelvic floor recovery is a core part of our postpartum care. We assess your healing, talk honestly about symptoms many women feel embarrassed to mention, and provide guidance on breathing, core reconnection, and safely returning to exercise. When symptoms persist, we refer you to trusted pelvic floor physical therapists who use targeted exercises, manual therapy, and biofeedback. If a more significant issue such as pelvic organ prolapse is suspected, our in-practice Board-Certified OB/GYNs can evaluate further.
Prevention Starts in Pregnancy
We discuss pelvic floor health during prenatal care, including posture, gentle strengthening, and perineal massage in late pregnancy. In childbirth education, you’ll learn about upright birthing positions and pushing techniques that may help reduce strain. During labor and delivery, our midwives support a patient, hands-on approach to protect your perineum whenever possible.
Long-Term Pelvic Health
Pelvic floor symptoms can also appear later in life, especially around perimenopause and menopause, when falling estrogen affects pelvic tissues. Recurrent bladder symptoms may also overlap with urinary tract infections. Our well-woman gynecology visits give you a space to bring up these concerns at any age. Browse all conditions we treat or learn about why families choose Cove.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction FAQs
Is leaking urine after having a baby normal?
It is common, but it is not something you have to accept. Most women improve significantly with targeted pelvic floor care.
When can I start pelvic floor exercises after birth?
Gentle breathing and pelvic floor activation can often begin within days, with more strengthening added as you heal. Your midwife will guide you.
Do I need pelvic floor physical therapy?
If symptoms like leaking, pressure, or pain continue beyond the early postpartum weeks, a pelvic floor physical therapist can help. We provide referrals.
Can a cesarean birth cause pelvic floor problems?
Yes. Pregnancy itself places strain on the pelvic floor, so symptoms can occur after a cesarean as well.
Is pain with intercourse after birth common?
It can be, especially in the first months or while breastfeeding. Persistent pain should be evaluated and is often very treatable.
What is diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles that commonly occurs during pregnancy. Targeted core work can help it close.
Can pelvic floor problems be prevented?
Prenatal strengthening, perineal massage, and supportive pushing techniques may reduce risk. We discuss prevention throughout your pregnancy.
Feel Strong and Confident Again
Pelvic floor recovery deserves real attention. Call Cove Midwifery and Women's Health at (844) 808-COVE or request an appointment to talk with our team.