Most people aren’t told this, but pelvic floor injuries during vaginal birth are common—and often unspoken. These injuries can lead to long-lasting issues like prolapse, incontinence, and pain. The good news? Many of them are preventable, and almost all of them are treatable with the right support.
What the Research Says
A major review published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (AJOG) revealed that:
Up to 19% of first-time moms show signs of levator ani muscle tears on imaging after birth—injuries that are linked to:
Pelvic organ prolapse
Urinary or fecal incontinence
Ongoing pelvic pain
Pain with intimacy
Difficulty returning to exercise
These are life-altering symptoms, yet they’re often dismissed as “normal” after having a baby.
They’re common, but should not be normal.
How Can We Prevent These Injuries?
One of the most effective and underutilized tools in birth recovery and injury prevention is pelvic floor physical therapy—both before and after delivery.
Pelvic floor PT can help:
Prepare your muscles for the physical demands of labor
Optimize pushing strategies and positioning
Minimize excessive strain on pelvic tissues
Support healing postpartum, even years after birth
Our Approach at Archer Physical Therapy
We believe education and prevention are powerful. That’s why our pelvic floor physical therapists work closely with women to:
Identify pre-existing tension, weakness, or imbalances
Create custom plans for pregnancy, labor prep, and postpartum healing
Collaborate with birth professionals to protect your long-term pelvic health
We’re here to break the silence around these injuries and offer real, research-based solutions.
Ready to Learn More?
Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for postpartum—it’s for prevention, healing, and thriving.
Want to know if it could help you? Book a free phone consult and let’s chat about your birth plan or postpartum concerns! We would love to support you!
Because your body deserves support, and your recovery deserves more than "just give it time."
Sources:
AJOG Study – Pelvic Floor Injury During Vaginal Birth Is Life-Altering and Preventable