Episode Details
Back to Episodes
Let's Talk Pelvic Health: Common, But Not Normal with Dr. Brooke Kalisiak | 268
Description
I'm joined by Dr. Brooke Kalisiak, a pelvic physical therapist and owner of Legacy Physical Therapy in St. Louis. We’re diving into one of the most overlooked - but incredibly important - parts of your birth and postpartum journey: your pelvic floor.
Dr. Brooke Kalisiak helps women prepare for birth, recover postpartum, and overcome pelvic health issues like pain and bladder leakage so they can feel strong and confident without relying on medications or surgery. She’s passionate about educating women on what’s normal, what’s not, and how to take control of their pelvic health.
In this episode, we talk about:
- The biggest misconceptions about pushing during labor
- Why your pelvic floor needs to relax - not tighten - for birth
- Common postpartum symptoms women are told to “just live with”
- What actually happens during a pelvic floor therapy appointment
- How pelvic floor health impacts pregnancy, birth, postpartum recovery, and even menopause
- Why bladder leakage is common, but not normal
- Simple breathing techniques that support your core and pelvic floor
- When to see a pelvic floor therapist (hint: it’s never too early or too late)
If you've ever worried about tearing, leaking, painful recovery, or wondered whether pelvic floor therapy is right for you, this conversation is packed with practical information and reassurance.
Remember, mama: just because something is common doesn't mean it's normal. You deserve answers, support, and a body that feels strong and supported through every stage of motherhood.
More from Dr. Brooke Kalisiak:
Find her @legacyphysicaltherapystl on Instagram, FaceBook, & YouTube
Helpful Timestamps:
- 00:00 Pelvic Health
- 06:28 Practice Pushing Positions
- 09:57 Bladder Leakage And Stigma
- 12:21 When To See Pelvic PT
- 16:02 Pregnancy Core Breathing
- 20:59 Postpartum Visits Explained
- 29:21 Why a Baseline Matters
- 32:11 Hidden Pelvic Symptoms
- 34:40 Where to Find Dr Brooke
Join The Calm Labor Birth Bundle - everything you need from bump to baby! Use code POD50 for $50 off!
Over 15k mamas have used our classes to prepare for a birth that they love 🤍
⭐ Download immediately ⭐App available ⭐Life-time access⭐
Connect w/ Trish:
For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.