Today, I'm speaking with Peyton Schmidt, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan, focused on the innovative 'Healthy Healing after Delivery' program. As the first of its kind in the U.S., this initiative offers specialized support to women dealing with various postpartum pelvic floor issues, such as lacerations, incontinence, and pelvic floor dysfunction, which often go unaddressed in standard postpartum care. The program was inspired by similar research in the U.K. and aims to provide comprehensive care, including education on pelvic floor health, tailored physical therapy, and the potential for surgical interventions if necessary.
Peyton highlights the program's genesis, its implementation challenges, outcomes, and the broader implications for improving postpartum care. It also touches on future research areas and the importance of broader education and conversation around postpartum pelvic health to enhance women's recovery and quality of life after childbirth.
Timeline
00:00 Introduction to the Healthy Healing After Delivery Program
00:39 Origins and Impact of the Program
04:20 Challenges and Successes in Referral and Acceptance
06:18 Clinic Operations and Patient Care Process
07:15 Educational Approach and Physical Therapy Integration
11:26 Research, Outcomes, and Future Directions
19:48 Expanding the Conversation on Pelvic Floor Health
23:55 Closing Thoughts and the Importance of Awareness
