Childbirth and Pelvic Health: Dr. Heather Jeffcoat's Perspective on Postpartum Challenges

Welcome to SHE MD, the podcast where medicine, wellness, and real-life experiences intersect. Hosted by Dr. Thais Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney, today’s episode discusses Pelvic Health, Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, painful sex causes, postpartum, and related women's health issues. We’re joined by Dr. Heather Jeffcoat, expert in pelvic floor therapy, and author of Sex Without Pain, shares insights into the causes of pelvic pain, treatment options, and the importance of addressing these often overlooked health concerns. The conversation aims to educate listeners and reduce the stigma surrounding these topics.

Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii.       

Sponsors: 

YNAB: Listeners of She MD can claim an exclusive three-month free trial, with no credit required, at YNAB

Ritual: Get 25% off your first month for a limited time at ritual.com/SHEMD

Timeline: Timeline is offering 10% off your first order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/SHEMD.

Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotikia.com/SHEMD for 20% off your order + free shipping today. 

Zoe: As a ZOE member, you'll get an at home test kit and personalized nutrition program to help make smarter food choices that support your gut. Thats ZOE.com and use code SHEMD10 to get 10% off your membership.

DR. HEATHER JEFFCOAT’S TAKEAWAYS:

• Understanding Pelvic Floor Disorders - Dr. Jeffcoat explains pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when muscles aren't working properly, leading to symptoms affecting the back, bowel, bladder, and sexual function. Issues like incontinence and painful sex are common.
• Causes and Treatments for Painful Sex - Various causes include endometriosis, scar tissue, and muscle dysfunction. Treatment involves education, hands-on techniques, and intravaginal methods for muscle relaxation.
• Postpartum Pelvic Floor Issues - Vaginal delivery can lead to scar tissue causing pain. Treatment includes trust-building, gradual examination, and medical dilators for at-home therapy.
• The Importance of Support Systems – Whether from a parent, friend, or mentor, having even one strong support figure can be life-changing. If that support isn’t available, learning to provide self-love and seeking a trusted community can help fill that role.
• Importance of Proper Postpartum Care - Hormonal changes post-childbirth can lead to vaginal dryness and atrophy. Proper care and follow-up are crucial for recovery. 

IN THIS EPISODE:  

(02:37) Navigating Pelvic Health: What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

(06:22) How can treatments be combined for endometriosis?

(09:16) What is the anatomy of the pelvic floor?

(18:05) How do medical dilators treat painful sex?

(21:40) What postpartum issues affect sexual function?

(30:20) How are constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction related?

(35:41) Can Kegels worsen pelvic floor pain?

(36:23) What infections cause painful sex?

RESOURCES:

Dr. Heather Jeffcoat’s new book: http://sexwithoutpain.com/

.css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}