Specialized Pregnancy and Postpartum Care: Preparing for and Recovering from Childbirth in Chicago at The Pelvic Institute
Pregnancy and childbirth are incredible yet demanding experiences that significantly impact a woman’s body—especially the pelvic floor, core, and musculoskeletal system. At The Pelvic Institute, we provide comprehensive prenatal and postpartum physical therapy to help women prepare for birth, recover safely, and restore strength after delivery.
Many women assume that postpartum issues like incontinence, diastasis recti, and pelvic pain are just “part of motherhood”—but they don’t have to be. With targeted pelvic floor therapy, women can regain core stability, reduce pain, and return to an active lifestyle without limitations.
Prenatal Care: Preparing the Body for Birth
A strong, flexible, and coordinated pelvic floor plays a crucial role in supporting the baby, facilitating labor, and preventing complications. Our prenatal therapy program focuses on:
Pelvic floor relaxation training to aid in labor and delivery.
Core stabilization exercises to prevent diastasis recti and improve back support.
Breathing techniques to enhance intra-abdominal pressure regulation during pregnancy.
Manual therapy for sacroiliac (SI) joint and pubic symphysis pain.
By optimizing strength, mobility, and pelvic function during pregnancy, we help women reduce pain, improve labor outcomes, and prevent postpartum dysfunction.
Postpartum Recovery: Healing the Body After Birth
The postpartum period brings significant changes in muscle tone, joint stability, and overall function, and many women experience lingering pain, weakness, or pelvic floor dysfunction after delivery. Our postpartum rehab program includes:
Rebuilding Core & Pelvic Floor Strength – Treating diastasis recti, pelvic floor weakness, and core instability.
Addressing Pelvic Pain & Sexual Dysfunction – Helping with painful intercourse, scar tissue from C-sections, and perineal healing.
Managing Urinary & Bowel Dysfunction – Treating leakage, urgency, and constipation through pelvic floor retraining.
Guided Return to Exercise – Creating a safe, progressive rehab plan for running, lifting, and high-impact activities.
Postpartum recovery is not just about getting your body back—it’s about restoring function, confidence, and long-term strength. Whether you had a vaginal delivery, a C-section, or experienced complications, our specialized care ensures that your body heals properly and you feel strong in your movement again.
Pelvic Health for Athletes: Strength, Stability, and Injury Prevention
Athletes rely on their core and pelvic floor more than they realize. Whether you’re a runner, lifter, or team sport athlete, poor pelvic floor function can lead to pain, instability, and decreased performance. Unfortunately, many active individuals don’t recognize pelvic dysfunction until it starts affecting their training, recovery, or quality of movement.
At The Pelvic Institute, we work with athletes to assess movement patterns, optimize core engagement, and prevent injuries related to pelvic floor imbalances.
Common Pelvic Health Issues in Athletes
Urinary leakage (stress incontinence) – Common in runners, weightlifters, and high-impact sports.
Pelvic or hip instability – Leads to inefficient movement patterns, pain, and reduced strength output.
Overactive pelvic floor muscles – Causes low back pain, hip tightness, and restricted movement.
Core and breathing dysfunction – Impacts power output, endurance, and stability.
Many athletes assume these issues are normal, but they are treatable with the right rehabilitation approach.
Optimizing Performance Through Pelvic Floor Therapy
Athletes depend on a strong, coordinated core and pelvic floor for stability, balance, and power transfer. Our performance-based pelvic therapy includes:
Breathing & Pressure Regulation Training – Improving diaphragm-pelvic floor coordination for endurance and stability.
Dynamic Strength & Mobility Work – Correcting imbalances that contribute to pain and injury.
Return-to-Sport Programs – Ensuring athletes transition back to training safely and efficiently.
Pelvic Floor Relaxation & Activation Training – Teaching how to control and stabilize the pelvic region during movement.
By addressing pelvic health as part of an athlete’s overall training program, we help prevent injuries, improve movement efficiency, and enhance performance without limitations.
Chronic Pain and Pelvic Dysfunction: A Path to Relief
Chronic pelvic pain is one of the most misunderstood and misdiagnosed conditions in healthcare. Many people suffer for years without clear answers, often being told that their pain is “normal” or that nothing can be done. At The Pelvic Institute, we specialize in treating persistent pelvic pain by identifying the root cause and creating customized treatment plans that go beyond just managing symptoms.
Pelvic pain is often multifactorial, meaning it can stem from muscular imbalances, nerve sensitivity, scar tissue adhesions, or biomechanical dysfunction. Our approach integrates manual therapy, movement retraining, and nervous system regulation to help individuals break free from chronic discomfort and regain control over their bodies.
Common Causes of Chronic Pelvic Pain
Pelvic Floor Hypertonicity (Overactive Muscles) – Tight, dysfunctional pelvic muscles that cause pain, tension, and trigger points.
Nerve Irritation or Entrapment – Conditions like pudendal neuralgia can create sharp, burning, or radiating pain in the pelvis.
Post-Surgical or C-Section Scar Tissue – Scar adhesions can limit mobility, restrict function, and cause pain in surrounding areas.
Endometriosis & Chronic Inflammation – Tissue adhesions and inflammation can lead to persistent pain and pelvic floor dysfunction.
SI Joint, Hip, or Low Back Issues – Many cases of pelvic pain stem from musculoskeletal imbalances that affect movement and posture.
Chronic pain often triggers compensation patterns, meaning the body learns to move differently to avoid discomfort—but these adaptations can worsen dysfunction over time. That’s why our treatment approach focuses on full-body integration, not just local symptom management.
How We Treat Chronic Pelvic Pain
At The Pelvic Institute, our multidisciplinary approach provides lasting relief through:
Myofascial Release & Manual Therapy – Hands-on treatment to reduce tension, improve circulation, and break down adhesions.
Nerve Desensitization & Relaxation Training – Techniques to calm the nervous system and reduce hypersensitivity.
Postural & Movement Re-Education – Correcting compensation patterns that contribute to chronic pain.
Scar Tissue Mobilization – Restoring mobility and function to areas affected by past surgeries or injuries.
Strength & Stability Work – Ensuring that the core, hips, and pelvic floor function properly together.
We understand that chronic pelvic pain is complex, but with the right therapeutic approach, relief is possible. Many patients see dramatic improvements in pain, mobility, and quality of life after completing our comprehensive treatment programs.
The Role of Scar Tissue in Pelvic Health
Scar tissue is one of the most overlooked contributors to pelvic dysfunction. Whether from a C-section, perineal tear, hysterectomy, or abdominal surgery, scar adhesions can restrict mobility, disrupt nerve function, and create chronic pain.
Many people aren’t aware of the long-term impact of surgical scars—even small incisions can create internal adhesions that affect movement, bladder function, and core stability. At The Pelvic Institute, we help patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve function through specialized scar tissue therapy.
How Scar Tissue Affects Pelvic Health
Restricted Mobility – Scar adhesions can pull on surrounding muscles and connective tissues, leading to stiffness, pain, and movement compensations.
Nerve Hypersensitivity – Some scars become overly sensitive or painful due to nerve entrapment within the tissue.
Bladder & Bowel Dysfunction – Adhesions near the bladder or intestines can affect digestion, urination, and pelvic floor control.
Core & Pelvic Floor Weakness – C-section and abdominal scars can disconnect the core muscles from proper engagement, leading to instability.
Scar Tissue Therapy at The Pelvic Institute
Our treatment approach focuses on restoring movement and function through:
Scar Mobilization & Myofascial Release – Gentle techniques to break up adhesions, improve circulation, and restore elasticity.
Nerve Desensitization Therapy – Techniques to reduce hypersensitivity and pain in scarred areas.
Breathwork & Core Integration – Teaching patients how to reconnect their core and pelvic floor for better movement control.
Progressive Strength & Mobility Work – Ensuring that scar tissue doesn’t limit long-term function.
By addressing scar-related dysfunction early, we help patients avoid chronic pain, improve movement, and regain confidence in their bodies.
Sexual Health and Pelvic Floor Therapy: Breaking the Stigma
Sexual health is an essential part of overall well-being, yet many individuals struggle with discomfort, pain, or dysfunction that affects their confidence and intimacy. Unfortunately, these issues are often dismissed or misunderstood, leaving many people feeling frustrated, anxious, or even hopeless.
At The Pelvic Institute, we specialize in pelvic floor therapy for sexual health, helping individuals identify and treat the underlying causes of pain and dysfunction. Whether you’re experiencing painful intercourse (dyspareunia), erectile dysfunction, or pelvic tightness that impacts intimacy, our evidence-based approach helps restore comfort, confidence, and function.
Common Sexual Health Concerns Treated with Pelvic Therapy
Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia & Vaginismus) – Caused by pelvic floor tightness, scarring, or nerve hypersensitivity.
Erectile Dysfunction & Pelvic Floor Weakness in Men – Related to poor circulation, muscle imbalances, and nerve compression.
Postpartum or Menopausal Changes – Hormonal shifts can affect vaginal tissue elasticity and pelvic muscle tone.
Decreased Libido Due to Chronic Pelvic Tension – Overactive pelvic muscles can lead to pain and discomfort, decreasing sexual enjoyment.
Scar Tissue-Related Pain – C-sections, episiotomies, or abdominal surgeries can create adhesions that restrict movement and cause discomfort during intimacy.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps Improve Sexual Health
Pelvic floor dysfunction is not just about muscle weakness—it’s about how the muscles, nerves, and surrounding structures function together. Our therapy focuses on:
Pelvic Floor Relaxation & Mobility – Helping tight, overactive muscles release tension for pain-free movement and intimacy.
Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Work – Addressing trigger points and adhesions that contribute to discomfort.
Blood Flow Optimization & Nerve Function Support – Enhancing circulation and neuromuscular control for better sensation and function.
Education & Mind-Body Techniques – Teaching patients how stress, posture, and breathing patterns affect pelvic floor health.
Sexual dysfunction isn’t just “in your head”—it’s often a result of muscle imbalances, nerve issues, or past trauma. With targeted pelvic floor therapy, many patients experience significant improvements in comfort, confidence, and sexual well-being.
The Benefits of Self-Pay Physical Therapy: A Smarter Investment in Your Health
Many individuals seeking pelvic health treatment find themselves frustrated with the limitations of insurance-based therapy. At The Pelvic Institute, we operate on a self-pay model, allowing us to provide high-quality, one-on-one care without insurance restrictions.
While insurance may seem like the most affordable option upfront, many patients find that self-pay physical therapy actually delivers faster results, fewer sessions, and better long-term value.
Why Choose Self-Pay for Pelvic Floor Therapy?
More Time with Your Physical Therapist, Less Waiting
Insurance-based therapy often limits session times, forcing therapists to see multiple patients at once.
With self-pay, you receive a full hour of one-on-one treatment, allowing for more personalized care and faster progress.
No Insurance Limitations on Treatment
Many effective treatments (manual therapy, dry needling, pelvic floor biofeedback, and scar tissue work) aren’t covered by insurance.
Self-pay allows full access to the most effective tools for recovery without restrictions.
Faster Results, Fewer Sessions Needed
Insurance-based care often stretches treatment over months due to limited progress in short, rushed sessions.
With focused, one-on-one sessions, many patients reach their goals faster and require fewer visits overall.
No Referral or Pre-Approval Needed
Many insurance plans require a doctor’s referral before starting treatment, leading to delays in care.
With self-pay, you can start immediately, preventing worsening symptoms and prolonged discomfort.
A Long-Term Investment in Your Health
Many chronic pelvic floor conditions worsen without proper treatment, leading to long-term complications.
By investing in quality care now, you can avoid more invasive interventions, surgeries, or costly medical treatments later.
Self-pay physical therapy puts your health first—giving you the time, attention, and expertise needed for real, lasting results.
Getting Started: What to Expect in Your First Visit
Beginning your pelvic health journey can feel overwhelming, but at The Pelvic Institute, we aim to make the process as comfortable, informative, and empowering as possible. Whether you’re experiencing pelvic pain, incontinence, postpartum recovery challenges, or sexual dysfunction, your first visit is all about understanding your unique needs and creating a customized plan for long-term success.
Our comprehensive evaluation allows us to pinpoint the root cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment approach that is tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and movement patterns. Here’s what to expect:
Step 1: In-Depth Consultation and Medical History Review
Before any hands-on evaluation begins, we take the time to:
Discuss your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and goals.
Review past treatments, surgeries, pregnancies, or injuries that may contribute to your condition.
Assess daily habits, exercise routines, and movement patterns that could be impacting your pelvic health.
This step helps us understand the full picture of your health and determine the best course of action.
Step 2: Full-Body Movement and Postural Assessment
Pelvic floor dysfunction is rarely an isolated issue—it’s often influenced by core stability, breathing patterns, hip mobility, and posture. That’s why we conduct a comprehensive movement evaluation to assess:
Pelvic alignment and core activation
Hip and lower back mobility
Breathing mechanics and intra-abdominal pressure control
Muscle imbalances or movement compensations
By evaluating how your pelvic floor integrates with the rest of your body, we can develop a treatment plan that addresses the true root cause of your symptoms, not just the surface-level discomfort.
Step 3: Pelvic Floor Muscle Evaluation (Optional and Always at Your Comfort Level)
If necessary and if you’re comfortable, we may perform an internal or external pelvic floor muscle assessment to evaluate:
Muscle tone (is the pelvic floor overactive or weak?)
Coordination (are the muscles activating correctly?)
Trigger points or scar tissue restrictions
This is always done with your consent and comfort in mind—there is no pressure to participate in an internal assessment if you are not ready. If you prefer, we can focus on external muscle testing, movement evaluation, and other assessments to guide your treatment plan.
Step 4: Personalized Treatment Plan and Next Steps
By the end of your first session, we will:
Provide a clear explanation of our findings and how they relate to your symptoms.
Create a step-by-step roadmap for recovery, including manual therapy, exercises, and at-home strategies.
Answer any questions and ensure you feel confident about your treatment plan moving forward.
We believe that education and empowerment are just as important as treatment itself. You’ll leave your first session with a deeper understanding of your condition and a clear strategy for long-term relief and function.
Take Control of Your Pelvic Health Today
Pelvic health challenges—whether they involve pain, incontinence, postpartum recovery, or athletic performance limitations—should never be ignored or dismissed. At The Pelvic Institute in Chicago, we are committed to providing personalized, evidence-based care that empowers you to regain strength, confidence, and function.
Unlike traditional approaches that only focus on symptom management, our comprehensive treatment model ensures that you recover fully, prevent future issues, and move forward with a stronger, healthier body.
Now is the time to take control of your pelvic health. Whether you’re recovering from childbirth, struggling with chronic pain, or looking to improve your core function and mobility, we are here to help.
