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In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by Melanie Francis, Clinical Midwifery Educator and Head of Operations ANZ for GynZone.

Together, Rangi and Mel take a deep dive into the important - and often daunting - topic of perineal tears.

• They explain what perineal tears are, why they happen, and the factors that can increase the risk of tearing during birth.
• They also discuss practical strategies that may help reduce the risk, including perineal massage and the use of warm compresses during labour.
• The conversation also covers the different types and classifications of tears, what recovery looks like, and practical advice for coping and healing after birth.

Join us next week as Rangi and Mel continue the conversation by exploring the important topic of episiotomies.

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In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined again by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley to explore the pelvic floor, why it matters, and how to keep it healthy before, during, and after pregnancy.

This is the first of a two-part series. In this episode Rangi and Helena discuss:

• How the Pelvic Floor changes in Birth and Postpartum
• What is common and normal after birth
• How we can improve symptoms at home
• When and how to seek help if you're experiencing issues

As mentioned in the podcast - here are some resources recommended by Prof Frawley:

• A pelvic health physiotherapist is a valuable support. Website to find a pelvic health physiotherapist: https://cfaphysios.com.au/
• Or ask your maternity care providers to link you up with a physiotherapist
• Web-based resources for download: https://www.continence.org.au/resources-and-tools/fact-sheets-booklets/
• https://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/

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" We encourage women to do the exercises during pregnancy because when you contract a muscle and relax it, it becomes more under your control, so you actually have a better ability to contract and relax when you need it to relax. It also improves the blood supply to the muscles, so they're healthier muscles."

In this episode, Dr Rangi is joined by pelvic floor physiotherapist and researcher Professor Helena Frawley to explore the pelvic floor, why it matters, and how to keep it healthy before, during, and after pregnancy.

This is the first of a two-part series. In this episode Rangi and Helena discuss:

• What the pelvic floor is and the important role it plays.
• What can happen when the pelvic floor muscles become weakened, including incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
• Practical ways to strengthen the pelvic floor, including Helena's evidence-based "2 and 8 is great" exercise program.
• The perineum, how perineal massage may help reduce the risk of birth-related injury, and practical tips for getting started.
• The impact of caesarean birth on pelvic floor health.
• Risk factors that may mean some people need to take a more proactive approach to pelvic floor care.

As mentioned in the podcast - here are some resources recommended by Prof Frawley:

• A pelvic health physiotherapist is a valuable support. Website to find a pelvic health physiotherapist: https://cfaphysios.com.au/
• Or ask your maternity care providers to link you up with a physiotherapist
• Web-based resources for download: https://www.continence.org.au/resources-and-tools/fact-sheets-booklets/
• https://www.pelvicfloorfirst.org.au/

Join us next week for Part 2, where Rangi and Helena continue the conversation, focusing on recovery after birth, pelvic floor health in the postpartum period, and long-term wellbeing.