Brittany Mahomes, wife of celebrated Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, took to social media with a compelling message for mothers about the importance of pelvic floor health in March. The 28-year-old mom of two, who endured a fractured back, emphasized the urgency of this often-overlooked aspect of postpartum care. Her candid reminder on Instagram—”Just a daily reminder: Once you have kids please take care of your pelvic floor. Seriously,”—has since sparked widespread attention and conversation regarding women’s health issues, particularly those related to the aftermath of childbirth.
The pelvic floor, a web of muscles stretching across the base of the pelvis, plays a pivotal role in supporting vital organs such as the uterus, bladder, and bowels. Its integrity is fundamental for proper organ function, and any weakness can lead to a host of complications, such as incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. While Mahomes’ connection between her fractured back and pelvic floor issues has not been detailed, her situation casts a light on the potential severity of pelvic floor disorders.
The National Institutes of Health suggests that nearly one in four women in the United States may experience some form of pelvic floor disorder. These conditions, though not always leading to extreme outcomes like fractures, can profoundly impact a woman’s quality of life. They become more frequent with age and are particularly common among those who have gone through multiple childbirths.
Highlighting the gravity of such health concerns, medical experts recommend seeking professional guidance and therapy for pelvic floor rehabilitation. Dr. Fatima Naqvi, medical director at Atlantic Medical Group Outpatient Obstetrics and Gynecology, underscores the benefits of consulting a pelvic floor specialist. According to her, “These are therapists that specifically understand the pelvic floor, the anatomy, how to get the muscles to work and regain strength so that they’re able to support the internal structures.”
Physical therapy, including exercises like kegels, may significantly improve the strength and function of the pelvic floor. Dr. Carolyn Swenson, a urogynecologist, further notes the primary role of physical therapy in managing pelvic floor complications post-childbirth.
Relevant articles:
– Brittany Mahomes urges moms to “take care of your pelvic floor.” Here’s why experts agree., CBS News, Mar 12, 2024
– Brittany Mahomes shares warning after fractured back. What was her message to her fellow mothers?, Marca.com, Mar 11, 2024
– Pelvic floor, betterhealth.vic.gov.au
– Why Brittany Mahomes Is Linking Fractured Back To Pelvic Floor, womenshealthmag.com