Prenatal and Postpartum Physiotherapy
At Ensemble, we recognize the value of physiotherapy support during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Our physiotherapists, Ana and Christine, specialize in pelvic floor health, to be able to help you prepare for delivery and recover postpartum. Christine also has advanced education in breastfeeding/infant physiotherapy to support you in your feeding journey.
Christine MacSween
PT
Physiotherapist
Christine (she/her) took a different path to physiotherapy that has provided a broad foundation and many opportunities to develop her skills. She received a Bachelor of Arts Joint Major with Distinction in Religious Studies and Economics from St. Francis Xavier University and completed courses in Kinesiology with a focus in biomechanics at the University of Calgary. Christine has been a yoga teacher since 2011, and it was through a desire to provide better care and to expand her scope of practice that Christine chose to obtain a Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Alberta.
Over the years, Christine has received training in movement modalities such as Restorative Exercise (Nutritious Movement®), Restore Your Core®, and numerous workshops and trainings within the yoga community. Christine trained at the Alberta Children’s Hospital where she was mentored in infant physiotherapy for torticollis, head shape, and development before mentoring with Mercedes at Vida Health & Wellness in breastfeeding support and pelvic health. Christine has taken continued education in pelvic health, chronic pain, cancer, and gastrointestinal diagnoses and treatment. She has also taken the Ehlers-Danlos Society ECHO program for Allied Health Professionals.
Her prior education in Religious Studies, Economics, and Kinesiology prepared her to look at PT and pelvic health in a larger context of culture, society, belief, and perspectives of the human body. She provides a safe space for people to learn about their bodies and health while seeking to understand and help them begin or get back to the activities that are meaningful to them.
Outside her clinical roles, Christine is a watercolour artist, poet, enjoys tea with friends, and loves to walk the paths of Calgary and the surrounding area. She is a storyteller at heart, whether with pen or paintbrush, and loves getting to know her patient’s stories.
FAQs
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Pelvic health physiotherapy includes the assessment and treatment of:
incontinence (leaking bladder or bowel)
constipation
diastasis recti
pelvic organ prolapse
painful sex (dyspareunia)
vaginismus (pain, avoidance, fear or difficulty with penetration), and
many other pelvic pain disorders
Treatments include a combination of education, self-care strategies, lifestyle and activity modifications, manual therapy and exercise. This may not happen all in one session!
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Usually, we examine the pelvic floor internally via the vaginal or rectal opening using one or two gloved fingers. An internal vaginal and/or rectal exam is not required, and we have options for external assessment and treatment. While internal exams do not have to occur at the first appointment, they are often recommended for a full assessment. Our priority is that you feel comfortable enough to get the appropriate assessment for your concerns.
The pelvic floor works as part of a system with your core, breathing, spine, legs, and yes, even upper body! We take all of this into consideration during assessment and treatment.
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You can see a pelvic health physiotherapist at any time during your pregnancy. This may be particularly helpful if you are having concerns such as: bladder leakage, prolapse, sexual pain and dysfunction, or vaginismus. We can also provide help with modifying activities and exercise as your pregnancy progresses.
Christine can provide one-to-one labour and delivery education, preparing you for all forms of birth (vaginal or C-section, medicated and non-medicated). Your partner is also welcome to join, and we can coach them on many of the techniques.
We rarely do internal assessments during the first trimester, however if you are cleared by your doctor and have a specific concern, it is possible.
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The usual recommendation is 6-8 weeks post delivery, however, you are always welcome sooner if you have specific concerns. If you come prior to your 6 week postnatal appointment with your doctor or midwife, we can determine if there is anything you should bring up with your provider.
All forms of birth are supported post delivery (vaginal and C-section, medicated and non-medicated).
Christine can provide return to exercise and activity-specific assessments and modification.
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You are welcome to have your baby, or child in the room during your appointment.
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Christine’s advanced training and experience allow her to offer Breastfeeding/Chestfeeding Physiotherapy in the assessment of both mom/parent and child to determine what could be the cause, especially if this is a recurrent concern. She can assess the breasts for conditions such as mastitis, blocked ducts, engorgement and painful feeds. Treatments include: education, positioning advice, therapeutic breast massage, and self-care strategies to prevent further issues. All forms of feeding are supported.
Infant Physiotherapy is also offered for baby’s aged 0 - 1 year. Christine offers assessment of:
Head shape concerns (plagiocephaly, brachycephaly)
Torticollis (tight neck)
Motor milestone development
Treatment includes education and a home exercise and or stretching program tailored to your infant’s needs.
Your Guide to Prenatal and Postpartum Physiotherapy at Ensemble.
