72. Pelvic Floor Therapy Isn’t Just About Kegels: A Trauma-Informed Guide to Pregnancy, Pelvic Pain, and Postpartum Recovery with Dr. Abby Andres

When you hear “pelvic floor therapy,” you might immediately think of Kegels. But pelvic floor physical therapy is about **so much more than strengthening one group of muscles.** In this episode of *A Bridge to Motherhood Podcast*, I’m talking with Dr. Abby Andres, a physical therapist who specializes in obstetric and pelvic floor care, about what moms really need to know about pelvic health before, during, and after pregnancy. Dr. Abby brings a trauma-informed approach to her work, recognizing that pelvic health can be deeply personal and that past experiences, birth trauma, pain, and even shame can affect how a woman experiences treatment. We talk about how to know when a symptom is something worth getting help for, what pelvic floor therapy can actually address, and what postpartum recovery should look like in those early weeks. We also talk about the often-overlooked gap in postpartum care, why rest is productive, how to return to movement safely, and how virtual pelvic floor physical therapy can give busy moms practical tools to care for their bodies independently. In this episode, we talk about: - **What trauma-informed pelvic floor therapy actually looks like** and why feeling safe, heard, and in control matters during such an intimate form of care. - **The difference between “common” and something you simply have to live with**, including pelvic pain, incontinence, constipation, bowel and bladder concerns, and other symptoms. - **Red flags during pregnancy** that may indicate it's time to seek additional support rather than simply accepting discomfort as part of pregnancy. - **What postpartum recovery really needs**, including why rest is productive and why those first few weeks don't need to look like intense workouts or “bouncing back.” - **Breaking the shame surrounding pelvic floor symptoms**, including pain with intercourse, leaking, and other concerns moms may be embarrassed to talk about. - **How pelvic floor PT can work virtually**, giving moms individualized tools and education so they can become more independent in caring for their bodies. One thing I want every mom to remember: Just because something is **common** after pregnancy or birth doesn't mean you have to simply accept it. As Dr. Abby explains, the more important question is: **How much is this symptom bothering you, and how much is it disrupting your daily life?** If pain, leaking, bowel or bladder issues, or another symptom is affecting your sleep, activities, relationships, or ability to enjoy your life, it's worth talking to a qualified provider. And if you've been avoiding care because of shame or embarrassment, this is your reminder that you are not alone—and there are people who can help. Dr. Abby's approach centers on educating, validating, and inviting women into support rather than making them feel ashamed of what they're experiencing. **About Dr. Abby Andres** Dr. Abby Andres is a physical therapist specializing in obstetric and pelvic floor care. With a trauma-informed approach, she helps women navigate pelvic pain, pregnancy-related symptoms, postpartum recovery, core weakness, incontinence, bowel and bladder concerns, and more. Her practice is entirely virtual and focuses on giving women the tools and education they need to become more independent in caring for their bodies. She offers a free 15-minute introduction call for women interested in learning whether virtual pelvic floor PT is a good fit. **Connect with Dr. Abby** Website:  www.drabigailandres.com Instagram: @dr.abigailandres Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.abigailandres A question for you... **Is there a postpartum or pelvic health symptom you've been told is “normal” that you've been wondering if you actually need to get help for?** If this episode was helpful, share it with another mom who needs to know that she doesn't have to simply live with pelvic pain, leaking, or other uncomfortable symptoms. Support the show **Connect with Danielle** Website: https://abridgetomotherhood.com Instagram: @abridgetomotherhood Shoot me an email: danielle@abridgetomotherhood.com  **Leave a Review** If this episode encouraged you, would you take a minute to leave a rating and review? Your support helps more Christian moms discover the podcast and find hope in Christ during pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood.  After you review the show — take a screenshot and upload it here — so I can send you some happy mail with a little surprise as a thank you. *Your feedback means so much to me and helps us reach new moms who desperately need to hear that they are worthy of support!* **Disclaimer:** Some of the links in this episode may be affiliate links, including Amazon links. This means I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you—if you make a purchase through them. Thank you for supporting the show!