Your Pelvis is NOT too Small to Birth a Baby

Hey there, mamas-to-be! 🤰

Today, we're tackling a common concern that I often hear from my lovely clients: the belief that your pelvis is too small to birth a baby naturally. Well, grab your comfy pillows and settle in, because we're about to debunk that myth and boost your birthing confidence!

Before we get too far into the weeds about your pelvis being too small, let’s talk about this history of how “your pelvis is too small” came about.

A Glimpse into the Past: Pelvic Measurements

Centuries ago, childbirth was as much a mystery as it was a miracle. People didn't have the modern medical technology and knowledge that we do today. Instead, they relied on observation, experience, and some interesting methods to predict how a woman's pelvis might affect her birthing experience.

The 18th and 19th centuries brought about significant developments in the field of obstetrics. Doctors began using various instruments, collectively known as pelvimetry tools, to measure the pelvis. These tools included the pelvimeter, a caliper-like device, and the pelvimeter basimetrica, which measured pelvic dimensions using baselines.

Fast forward to the 20th century, where medical technology took a giant leap. X-rays and later, ultrasound, revolutionized the way we measure and understand the pelvis. Radiology allowed for accurate measurements without invasive procedures, greatly improving prenatal care and birth planning. With all these tools came the diagnosis, Cephalopelvic Disproportion. CPD occurs in 1 of every 250 births; making it fairly rare.

Myth Busting Time: "My Pelvis is Too Small"

Let's start by saying this loud and clear: your pelvis is not some stubborn door that your baby can't fit through. It's more like a beautifully adaptable puzzle piece, ready to accommodate your little one's grand entrance into the world.

Here's the lowdown on why you don't need to worry about having a "too small" pelvis:

1. Pelvises Come in All Shapes and Sizes

Just like our favorite pair of jeans, pelvises vary from person to person. They can be wide or narrow, round or oval, but that doesn't determine your ability to birth naturally. Nature designed our bodies to accommodate different pelvic shapes, and most of the time, it works like a charm.

2. Baby's Head is Moldable

You know that adorable soft spot on a baby's head? It's called the fontanelle, and it's there for a reason. During birth, a baby's skull bones are not fused together, allowing them to overlap slightly. This flexibility helps the baby's head adapt to the size and shape of your pelvis as they make their way down the birth canal.

3. The Magical Hormones

Oh, the power of hormones! Your body produces a cocktail of hormones during labor, including oxytocin and relaxin. Oxytocin is the love hormone that helps your uterus contract, while relaxin, as the name suggests, relaxes your ligaments and joints. These hormones work together to make sure that your pelvis can gently expand and make room for your baby.

4. Your Body Knows What to Do

Your body has been preparing for this moment since the day you found out you were pregnant. It's a pro at this whole birthing thing. Trust in the process, and your pelvis will do its part to usher your little bundle of joy into the world.

5. Movement and Position Matter

As a pelvic floor physical therapist, I can't emphasize this enough: movement is your best friend during labor. Changing positions, rocking your hips, and walking around can all help your baby navigate your pelvis more easily. So, keep that pelvis mobile!

6. Support and Education

Surround yourself with a supportive birth team and educate yourself about the birthing process. A knowledgeable and caring team can guide you through any concerns and help you have a positive birth experience.

7. Pelvic Floor Birth Prep

Here's where my expertise comes into play. Pelvic floor muscles exercises and stretches can help prepare your pelvis for birth. Think of it as training for the big event. Breathing, pushing positioning, and hip-opening stretches can make a world of difference.

Remember, It's About the Journey

Ultimately, childbirth is a journey, not a destination. Your body is a marvel of nature, and it knows how to bring your baby into the world. Trust in yourself, your body, and the process. Keep the lines of communication open with your healthcare provider, and don't be afraid to ask questions or express your concerns.

So, to all the moms-to-be out there worried about having a "too small" pelvis, take a deep breath, relax those pelvic floor muscles, and know that you've got this! Your body is designed for this incredible journey, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Here's to embracing the beauty of birth and the strength of your amazing pelvis! 🌟

Until next time, Kelsey