Jo Gipson on Postnatal Recovery , Exercise, Scars and Pelvic Floor Health

Chloe welcomes Jo Gipson back to the Bodcast to discuss the postnatal period and the importance of pelvic health. Joe explains her approach to assessing clients who have just had a baby, emphasizing the need to check in with their overall well-being before focusing on pelvic health. She discusses the assessment of the pelvic floor and the importance of addressing scars after childbirth. Joe also highlights the impact of biomechanics and overall movement in postnatal individuals. She shares her approach to postnatal recovery, emphasizing the importance of intention over intensity and tailoring exercises to individual goals. Joe addresses the readiness for intense exercise after childbirth and the importance of regular check-ins and assessments. She also discusses the importance of seeking treatment for pelvic floor issues at any stage of life and addresses the topic of returning to sex after having a baby. Joe provides recommendations for maintaining a healthy pelvic floor and overall pelvic health. 

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The pelvic floor and its importance (02:09) Jo discusses the pelvic floor, its function, and the common problems women may experience after childbirth.

The impact of different types of birth on recovery (08:50) Jo explains that recovery and rehabilitation after childbirth, including scar work, can vary regardless of whether it was a vaginal birth or a cesarean section.

The importance of assessing scars postnatal (09:48) Jo discusses the significance of assessing scars, including their location, appearance, and impact on mobility and emotional well-being.

Caesarean scar and the development of a pouch (13:42) Jo discusses how the location and tightness of a caesarean scar can contribute to the development of a pouch or shelf-like appearance, and provides tips on scar healing and massage techniques to minimise the pouch.

Postnatal Recovery Goals and Intention (19:56) Discussion on the importance of setting individual goals and intentions for postnatal recovery, including returning to challenging activities like running and weightlifting.

Progression of Exercise Timeline (22:52) Explanation of a gradual continuum of exercise progression, starting with basic breathwork and core exercises, then moving towards functional exercises and finally specific goal-oriented exercises like running or weightlifting.

Signs to Look for Before Returning to Full Throttle Training (29:45) Discussion on the importance of assessing readiness to return to intense training postnatal, emphasizing that it's not just about a specific time frame.

Understanding and Managing Prolapse (35:10) Explanation of prolapse, its varying degrees, and the misconception surrounding it, highlighting that it's common and does not necessarily restrict exercise.

Returning to sex after childbirth (41:15) Exploration of the changes in the pelvic floor and intimate life after having a baby, including issues such as tightness, pain, and vaginal dryness.

Long-term pelvic health (45:24) Advice on maintaining pelvic health throughout life, including pelvic floor exercises, exercise and weight management, avoiding constipation, and seeking treatment for pelvic floor issues.

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