Post birth recovery for Taranaki women

Project Nak focuses on pelvic floor muscle recovery. It aims to further educate women on how they can help their bodies recover, identify associated issues and understand how to mitigate or manage them.

Why I set up Project Nak

I have two young children and live in Taranaki with my husband. I have first-hand experience with pelvic floor issues following childbirth. I have initiated the project by entering Taranaki’s Lake Mangamahoe off-road Half Marathon to raise money for this cause as well as to challenge myself. I believe that the more understanding and awareness of pelvic floor dysfunction, the better chance of recovery and quality of life for mothers. Having a child is one of the most giving and challenging things a woman can do and it is vital to take the best care of yourself in order to be the best mum you can.

Practical support

Lisa Yates (Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist) of New Plymouth has kindly agreed to be involved in the Project to provide her expert knowledge. There will be an educational session for pregnant women or mothers (of any age!) to attend. This will be a free and fun educational evening – learning everything you need to know about your pelvic floor! Details on this event will be confirmed in early 2017, provisionally to take place in New Plymouth in March 2017 as an evening event.

It is anticipated that the event will cost an estimate of $300-500 depending on numbers attending and sponsorship. This will cover the cost of advertising, venue hire, tea/coffee and any additional material required.

Further to this event, the project will be providing some subsidiary vouchers for the following:

• Pelvic floor WOF (warrant of fitness) with pelvic floor physiotherapist, Lisa Yates and then her:

• 6 week Post-natal Yoga/Pilates course, specific to pelvic floor recovery

The intention is that, by providing a subsidy, it will encourage more women to become aware of pelvic floor problems and be proactive in getting assistance. Too many women suffer in silence, not knowing that help is available. For many women, having a pelvic floor WOF will help to avoid future issues and enable them to return to exercise safely.

Project aims

The project hopes that many women will benefit from this initiative, which in the long term would reduce health issues and increase emotional strength. In turn this should give women the freedom to make their own activity choices as well as feel positive and equipped to handle the ups and downs of parenting life.