Low intervention hospital birth, the power of pelvic floor PT & the importance of birth “prehab”

Merelise is joined this week by Dr. Amy Meehan, who is a mom, entrepreneur and physical therapist specializing in women’s health, with an emphasis on pelvic floor conditions and orthopedic care. Amy shares her three very different birth experiences and how each has taught her something unique. Her first birth and postpartum experience was marked by uncertainty and a lack of support. That experience unlocked a passion in her to fill a gap in women’s health and ultimately led her to create Revelle Physical Therapy when her first was still a baby. Her second birth was more positive and she was able to utilize everything she was now teaching her patients about how to optimize birth. Her third baby was born 8 years after her second and for this final baby, she decided to forgo a traditional OB practice and utilize a concierge midwife practice where she could ensure more continuity of care from her providers. For her third birth, she had an unmediated birth in a hospital where she felt fully in control and powerful in her knowledge of what was happening to her body. They also discuss the importance of education, preparation, and support for women during pregnancy and postpartum, the Gate Control Theory, being able to pick your own vulva out of a line up, getting through one more contraction, and so much more. Amy shares insights on pelvic floor health, the significance of “prehab”, the common challenges women face after giving birth, and more. This episode is chalk-full of wisdom and tips to optimize your health not only as a birthing person, but as a woman in general! Resource Links: Revelle Physical TherapyFollow Revelle on InstagramFollow Dr. Amy on InstagramWant to be a guest on Arrivals? Contact Merelise here!Follow Arrivals on InstagramFollow Merelise on InstagramDisclaimer: This podcast contains general information and discussions around health and related subjects. This information and the other content provided in this podcast and any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice, nor is this information a substitute for professional medical expertise or treatment.