In this episode of the To Birth and Beyond podcast, hosts Jessie Mundell and Anita Lambert discuss the common fears surrounding pelvic floor health, particularly in the context of motherhood. They explore the fear cycle that can develop from experiencing pelvic floor symptoms such as incontinence and pelvic pain, and how this anxiety can lead to avoidance of activities and further deconditioning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding symptoms as information rather than a sign of weakness, and offers practical strategies for breaking the cycle of fear and managing symptoms effectively.

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Resources and References 

• www.thisisneeded.com – save 20% with code: BIRTHANDBEYOND
• Sign up for Jessie’s upcoming FREE Power Hour Workout
• Episode 267: Build a Pelvic Floor Symptoms Flare-Up Plan

Show Notes 

0:55 - Jessie’s brand new upcoming Power Hour Workout

2:35 - Introduction today’s topic - and how it comes up for our clients

5:19 - Jessie and Anita talk through the fear cycle people may find themselves in - and what’s going on in your body when this happens (using examples of leaking during deadlifts and running/high impact)

12:56 - Anita and Jessie dive into common fear scenarios around daily life activities and prolapse exacerbation

17:50 - Learn about Needed: Nutrition for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum and women’s health (sponsored ad)

20:31 - Jessie and Anita share how we can start to break this cycle of fear!

27:21 - Anita and Jessie talk all about building your support system that calms your fears

31:02 - Key takeaways and episode wrap up

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POWER QUOTES:

• "We need to address the root cause of symptoms."
• "It's common to feel anxious about exercise."
• "Your partner does not want this to be painful."
• "You don't have to just deal with symptoms."
• "Stress can exacerbate pelvic floor symptoms."