I keep hearing about the pelvic floor. What am I supposed to be doing or not doing?

Dear Pelvic Floor-ishing,

The pelvic floor is a glorious support system that holds us up, holds us in and allows us to maintain digestive and sexual function. It energetically anchors us while also acting as a thoroughfare, allowing waste out and sexual health in. We use the pelvic floor everyday, all day and it deserves some praise! Unfortunately, historically in the US medical system, we only start to talk about the pelvic floor when it becomes attached to the word dysfunction. In good midwifery fashion, let’s take a moment to talk about how to honor this muscle system, promote it’s healing, and also prevent dysfunction down the road.

Any tips regarding sex after having had a baby? I’m feeling ready, but nervous! #askingforafriend

Dear Desiring Prep,

Take it slow. Sex can feel like new territory after having a baby. Be sure to be vocal with your partner about what feels good and what isn’t working for you.

What’s the deal with cervical fluid and do I seriously have to stick my finger in my vagina every day to figure it out? #askingforafriend

Dear Fluid-Curious,

Cervical fluid is fluid/mucous that is produced by your cervix and is dependent on your hormones. Because hormones fluctuate throughout your cycle, the fluid changes from watery to creamy, sticky to slippery, clear to white, etc. Learning what type of fluid corresponds to what stage of your cycle can help you decide when to avoid sex if avoiding pregnancy, or when to get all sorts of into it if trying to conceive. Either way, you should take note daily to suss out your body’s particular rhythm.

How do I take care of my beloved vagina before and after having a baby? #askingforafriend

Dear Vaginally-Concerned,

So many people are afraid of what will happen to their vagina after having a baby. Will I tear? Will I need stitches? Will sex ever be the same? Will I really start peeing my pants all the time? There’s a cycle of fear in modern culture around birth and the physical changes that may occur. Well, we’re here to hopefully dispel some of those fears and guide you to an empowered and holistic approach to your postpartum transition.

What makes midwifery care different than standard obstetrics and gynecology? #askingforafriend

Dear Midwifery-Curious,

SOFT CORNER Midwifery Care focuses on informed choice and relationship-based care. We really love to get to know you! And as complex human beings, that of course takes time.

We hold one-hour visits, allowing you to have the time and space to discuss whatever is on your mind. These may be physical concerns, emotional concerns, questions about your care, or merely questions about what’s coming up next. We love sharing the latest evidence-based information to guide you through your reproductive care and ensure that you feel confident and informed throughout the decision making process. Whether it's simple STI screening or complex emotional concerns around fertility, we are here to hash it out. We get pretty nerdy about the whole thing as Licensed Midwives, but it makes the information exchange experience so much more fun! Learning about your body and knowing that you (and only you) are it’s best expert should be exciting!