What Physiotherapist Jaime Angus has to say

In celebration of Pregnancy & Exercise Awareness Month we interviewed Jaime Angus from Donna Sarna Physiotherapy in Winnipeg.
 
We asked Jaime how she helps women enjoy the benefits of an active lifestyle during pregnancy?

"Pregnancy is an amazing time in your life where your body undergoes significant change.  This is a time when we need to pay particular attention to our body’s new needs and demands to keep us healthy and pain free!  When thinking about health we need to consider all aspects, in other words thinking of the body as a whole. As a physiotherapist our role is two–fold.  We address any aches and pains that may occur during pregnancy to improve mobility to keep you active.   We empower women with knowledge of the right balance of relaxation, stretching and strengthening you need to have a wonderful pregnancy and delivery as well as postpartum transition."

We also asked Jaime for one piece of exercise advice she would give all pregnant women?

"Look after your pelvic floor muscles! Improve the elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles by perineal stretching and massage to reduce the incidence of tears and episiotomies.  Strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to assist in labor (effectively contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles) as well as prevent incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.  

Good pelvic health is important not only during pregnancy and postpartum but affects you for the rest of your life.  Looking after oneself during this time can significantly reduce the incidence of pelvic/back pain, incontinence, and prolapse as well as improve sexual sensation and function in the years to come."

Looking for pelvic floor guidance? Click here for a 5 minute pelvic floor routine.