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It also includes definitions for key terms and directions for getting referral support from an experienced physiotherapist when symptoms do not 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PHYSIOTHERAPISTS  \nContents  \nGlossary .................................................................................................................. 1  \nFit for Birth..............................................................................................................2  \nPerineal massage....................................................................................................2  \nFirst Stage ..............................................................................................................3  \nSecond Stage .........................................................................................................5  \nThird Stage .............................................................................................................6  \nPelvic floor muscle exercises ..................................................................................6  \nUseful websites and further information............................................................. IBC  \nGetting help  \nIf you have any difficulty with the exercises in this booklet, or find that your symptoms are not improving, ask to be referred, or if available, refer yourself to a physiotherapist with experience in treating women with pelvic floor muscle problems.  \nTo find your nearest specialist physiotherapist visit:  \n[pogp.csp.org.uk](pogp.csp.org.uk)  \n[or contact:](or contact:)  \nPOGP administration Fitwise Management Ltd. Blackburn House Redhouse Road Bathgate West Lothian EH47 7AQ  \nT: 01506 811077 E: [info@fitwise.co.uk](info@fitwise.co.uk)  \nWomen with complex needs  \nIf your ability to follow the advice in this booklet is affected by any health problem we suggest that you contact your local specialist women’s health physiotherapist, who will be able to assess you and offer specific alternatives, suitable for your needs.  \nOther booklets in this series [available from pogp.csp.org.uk are](available from pogp.csp.org.uk are) Fit for Pregnancy, The Mitchell Method of Relaxation and Fit for the Future.  \nIllustrations by Victoria K. McCulloch, copyright 2017  \nGlossary as the words occur in the booklet  \npelvic floor muscles-the group of muscles spanning the base of your boney pelvis, held in place by ligaments which support the pelvic organs. Pelvic floor muscle exercises / Kegels will help keep these muscles strong perineal/perineum-relating to the area between the anus and the vagina contraction-a muscular tightening of the uterus. These are a sign of labour and become stronger and closer together  \ndilating/dilation-opening of the cervix  \ncervix-the lowest part of the uterus which opens up to allow childbirth. It connects the uterus and vagina. It can be felt at the top of the vagina; swabs of cervical cells are taken at your smear test  \n‘TENS’ -a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation machine is an electrotherapy treatment that can be used during labour as a form of pain relief.  \nisotonic drinks-a drink used to replace fluid and electrolytes lost during labour. Common examples are sports drinks  \nepidural-an injection into your lower back to numb the lower half of your body to stop you feeling any pain  \nplacenta-an organ which joins you and your baby for exchange of nutrients. This has to be delivered after your baby  \ncatheter-a tube put into your bladder to drain the urine (wee) . Sometimes needed in labour  \nintra-abdominal pressure-an increase in the pressure in the tummy which causes strain downwards onto the pelvic floor muscles  \nuterus-the hollow organ in which the foetus/ baby develops in pregnancy (sometimes called the womb)  \nFit for Birth  \nThis booklet is designed to help you cope with your labour. It is recommended that you attend an antenatal class in your area if there is one available, in order to gain maximum information and advice.  \nIt is highly recommended that you begin regular pelvic floor muscle exercises","cbCaim5DVudZu4Uj","https://ap.wps.com/l/cbCaim5DVudZu4Uj","pdf",1553166,12,"English","# Contents\n## Glossary\n## Fit for Birth\n## Perineal massage\n## First Stage\n## Second Stage\n## Third Stage\n## Pelvic floor muscle exercises\n## Useful websites and further information\n## Getting help\n## Women with complex needs\n## Other booklets in this series","[{\"question\":\"When should pelvic floor muscle exercises be started in pregnancy?\",\"answer\":\"The booklet recommends beginning regular pelvic floor muscle exercises early in pregnancy to help your muscles cope with pregnancy changes and the post-natal period.\"},{\"question\":\"What is perineal massage and when is it recommended?\",\"answer\":\"Perineal massage from approximately 35 weeks pregnancy can reduce the likelihood of perineal trauma requiring stitches and may reduce reports of perineal pain at three months postnatally.\"},{\"question\":\"What comfort or pain relief options are suggested for the first stage of labour?\",\"answer\":\"Options include relaxation techniques, breathing techniques, a warm bath or shower, a TENS machine, and comfortable positions to help during contractions and rest.\"}]","Fit for Birth - Essential Exercises and Helpful Advice | PDF",1790545825]