Pelvic Floor Issues
Pelvic Floor Issues
The Effects of Pregnancy, Childbirth, and C-Section on Fascia within the Pelvis and Pelvic Floor
The journey of pregnancy, the marvel of childbirth, and the complexities of a C-section leave a significant mark on the fascia of the pelvis and pelvic floor. As these remarkable processes unfold, the delicate interplay of tissues undergoes profound changes, prompting a deeper exploration into their implications for women’s well-being.
During pregnancy, the fascia is altered as the baby grows, causing the weave of the tissue to distort and reorganize throughout the entire core and pelvic floor to accommodate the increasing demands of the growing baby.
During childbirth, the stretching and potential tearing of pelvic floor muscles and fascia can lead to scar tissue and adhesions, causing discomfort and reduced mobility.
Similarly, C-sections involve cutting through layers of tissue, including the fascia, which may result in adhesions and limited movement that can ripple out into other areas of the body like a runner in a nylon stocking.
Beyond physical alterations, childbirth and C-sections can also impact the fascia emotionally. Traumatic birth experiences can induce tension and holding patterns in the fascia, contributing to both emotional and physical discomfort.
Navigating the aftermath of childbirth extends beyond the physical changes, often intertwining with pelvic floor issues and emotional health concerns for women. The spectrum of experiences ranging from physical pain in pelvic floor, incontinence, and digestive issues to organ prolapse, challenges in sexual function, intimacy issues, and low libido, can be overwhelming and devastating. Moreover, the presence of depression and anxiety further underscores the complexity of the journey, highlighting the holistic approach needed to address the multifaceted needs of women.
Despite the prevalence of these challenges, these issues often remain unspoken or overlooked, leaving many women to navigate them silently.
Case Study: Pelvic Pain and Intimacy Issues Postpartum
Patient Presentation:
A woman, hereafter referred to as Sarah, sought help for a collection of issues eight years after the birth of her child. Notably, she reported experiencing intimacy issues, diminished libido, symptoms related to depression, and pelvic floor pain during intercourse. These symptoms manifested following the traumatic birth of her child, which involved a prolonged four-day induction culminating in a Cesarean section delivery. Sarah described a sense of detachment from her pelvis, marked by a lack of sensation which persisted with no relief over the eight years.
Treatment Approach and Outcome:
After a complete consult and evaluation, Sarah began a series of FMCM sessions aimed at addressing her presenting symptoms.
Drawing from the definition of trauma provided by Kristen and Michael Myers and the Myers Institute®, which states that trauma is any event that is too overwhelming, painful, or confusing for the emotional or physical body to fully experience and process, FMCM sessions were tailored to explore and process unresolved trauma. It was acknowledged that adhesions and constrictions in the pelvis and pelvic floor, often resulting from sexual abuse or trauma (including those that can occur during invasive medical procedures), can significantly impact one’s sexuality.
During the course of therapy, unresolved sexual trauma from her childhood emerged and was processed, contributing to a deeper healing experience. As the therapeutic applications targeted the fascia of the pelvic floor and associated regions, Sarah noted gradual improvements in her symptoms. Specifically, she observed resolution of pelvic pain during intercourse, restoration of libido, and an improvement in her emotional state.
Conclusion:
This case highlights the profound impact of a holistic healing approach in addressing postpartum concerns such as intimacy issues, pelvic pain, and other associated symptoms. FMCM offers a unique method for accessing unresolved trauma without having to consciously relive it. Through the process, the work softens fascial rigidity in a gentle in noninvasive manner, allowing for the gradual fading of stored memories.
Over a series of FMCM sessions, which allowed her to uncover and process past traumas that were stored in her fascia, Sarah experienced significant improvements in her symptoms, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing process.
Reclaiming ownership of one’s body after trauma is not just about physical healing; it’s about reclaiming one’s sense of self, restoring confidence, and rediscovering joy in life’s intimate moments – a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of holistic healing.
Michael and Kristen Myers, LMT, February 2024 ©
ABOUT
Fascial Matrix Connection Method® and The Matrix in Motion are intended to serve as an adjunct to medically supervised healthcare. This article is not designed for and does not provide medical advice. All content in this article is for general information purposes only. The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental advice or care. You should consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and collaborative treatment. Michael Myers, Kristen Myers, and the Myers Institute ® are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the method discussed within the information of this article.
