The Postpartum Recovery Program

A Guide to Pregnancy Recovery and the 4th Trimester

What is the 4th Trimester and Why is Pregnancy Recovery Important?

The fourth trimester refers to the first three months of a baby’s life when the newborn is adjusting to life outside the womb while the mother is adjusting to her post-partum body.

The weeks following childbirth are important for a mother’s recovery and set the stage for her continued well-being. Pregnancy and childbirth are challenging for a women’s body and labor and delivery may have affected the body in ways the mother was not expecting. Typically six weeks after giving birth, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend beginning ongoing follow-up visits with a pelvic health specialist.

Who Can Benefit From Our Pregnancy Recovery Care Program?

Women who are pregnant or who have given birth can all benefit from the women’s services at Sheltering Arms Institute. We also specialize in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction.

If you’re not familiar with the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, review the common signs below or give us a call with any questions you may have.

Signs of a Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Include

  • Pelvic pain
  • Back pain
  • Sacroiliac pain
  • Core weakness
  • Urine leakage
  • Diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles)
  • Sexual pain
  • Ongoing constipation
  • Other bowel issues
  • Given birth to a baby weighing more than 8 lbs
  • Episiotomy or tearing during labor

What Can You Expect from Pregnancy Recovery Therapy?

The pelvic health experts at Sheltering Arms Institute have specialized knowledge to support mothers through their new journey
and help them regain function, tone, and alignment to the pelvic area.

Your first session will include a complete orthopedic evaluation. You’ll receive one-on-one instruction in each session to guide you through proper postural and body mechanics. Additionally, your therapist will create an individualized exercise program and provide you with detailed patient education.

Make an Appointment with a Pregnancy Recovery Expert or Ask a Question

If you have any questions about our pregnancy recovery programs or would like to schedule an appointment at one of our locations, contact us below or give us a call at 804-764-1000.