Description:
In this blog post, we share the inspiring story of Shauna Ironside, an Ottawa-based osteopathic manual practitioner, athletic therapist, and active mother of three. Shauna has nearly 20 years of clinical experience working with bodies of all ages and stages. In this article, she discusses her personal journey with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and how she successfully uses exercise and other natural methods to recover.
Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition where one or more organs in the pelvic bowl have moved out of place. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including a feeling of heaviness in the lower abdomen, pain or discomfort during intercourse, difficulty with urination, and constipation. While prolapse is a common condition, it can be deeply personal and emotionally challenging to cope with.
Shauna's Journey:
Shauna's journey with prolapse began during her third pregnancy. She suffered from a grade 3 cystocele, a type of uterine prolapse where the womb protrudes from the vaginal opening. This condition caused significant distress, particularly during sexual intimacy, and Shauna was forced to modify her activities and even avoid certain movements. Despite seeking medical advice, she was told that her condition was normal after childbirth and that she would need to learn to live with it.
However, Shauna's journey was far from over. She found herself researching and understanding the root causes of prolapse and the methods that could be used to reverse it naturally. Through her research, she discovered that scar tissue, trauma, and diet play a significant role in the formation of prolapse. Recognizing that she had been carrying a heavy emotional burden, she set out to heal her body both physically and mentally.
Healing Methods:
Shauna's healing methods involved a combination of exercises, lifestyle changes, and a commitment to self-care. She began with targeted exercises designed to strengthen her core and pelvic floors, including bridge poses, high squats, bird dog prep, and pelvic tuck/untuck. She also incorporated stretching and inversion exercises into her routine to help improve her posture and reduce the pressure on her pelvic floor.
In addition to her exercise routine, Shauna made significant changes to her diet, focusing on whole foods and avoiding processed foods. She also incorporated mindfulness and meditation into her daily life to help manage stress and improve her overall well-being.
Results:
After several months of consistent practice, Shauna began to notice improvements in her symptoms. Her bloating and constipation improved, and she felt more confident in her ability to engage in activities she had previously受限 due to her prolapse. By the time her third child was born, she was able to give birth naturally without any complications or assistance.
Shauna's journey serves as a testament to the power of self-care and the importance of address-ing the root causes of illness. She has not only healed her own prolapse but also inspired others to take control of their health and wellness. Whether you are experiencing the physical and emotional impacts of POP or simply seeking to improve your overall health and wellbeing, Shauna's story has the potential to inspire and inform your own healing journey.
Resources:
For more information on pelvic organ prolapse and recovery, visit the following links:
Additional Reading:
References:
- [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2024). Pelvic Organ Prolapse.](https://www.acog.org媛経皮膚科手冊第18章）
- Ottawa Women's Fitness Association. (2023). Home Fitness Ideas.
