New NHS service supports pelvic health during and after pregnancy

A new service has been launched by Tameside and Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust to help women protect and recover their pelvic floor health during and after pregnancy.

The Perinatal Pelvic Health Service is open to patients who are currently pregnant or who have had a baby within the last 12 months. Women can access the service by self-referring through an online form, or by speaking to a midwife, health visitor, GP or consultant.

The pelvic floor is a vital group of muscles that support the womb, bladder and bowel. These muscles work harder during pregnancy to carry the baby’s weight and may be stretched during labour, leading to weakness or damage.

The new service will provide expert support for a range of common pregnancy and postnatal issues, including:

• Lower back, hip, pelvic and leg pain
• Abdominal separation (rectus abdominis diastasis)
• Pelvic floor weakness
• Perineal injuries, including severe tears
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Bladder damage
• Safe return to exercise after birth

Specialist pelvic health physiotherapists are working alongside gynaecology, colorectal and urogynaecology teams to offer tailored support. The aim is to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, manage symptoms and reduce the risk of longer-term problems.

Group sessions are also available for those experiencing pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain, with classes focusing on techniques to ease discomfort and improve movement. Pregnant women can sign up by completing an online form.

Sam Cottrell, Perinatal Pelvic Health Midwife at the Trust, emphasised the importance of the service: “Pelvic floor, bladder and bowel symptoms are common during and after pregnancy, but that doesn’t mean they are normal and should be ignored.

We know these problems are often sensitive in nature, so we provide a highly confidential and respectful service tailored to each person’s specific symptoms and goals.”

For more information or to access the Perinatal Pelvic Health Service, patients can speak to their healthcare professional or visit the Trust’s website.