María always loved the world of motherhood. Since she was a child, she dreamed of becoming a mother and experiencing pregnancy firsthand. When she trained in physical therapy, she discovered how she could help women and expectant mothers achieve their desired pregnancies and support them through her specialty in pelvic floor and obstetrics.

As María says, "It's a field that many women are still unfamiliar with, and it addresses many aspects of health, such as hormonal, emotional, and even sexual aspects. It's a profession that connects directly with people, creates beautiful bonds, and can help women immensely."

Tell us about your work at the clinic and how you can improve the physical well-being of pregnant women.

In the clinic itself (Fisiotérate in Las Rozas de Madrid), we work on the pelvic floor area for all those dysfunctions such as incontinence , pain during intercourse , scars, prolapses, endometriosis , polycystic ovaries ... And, in addition, we have the obstetrics area, where my colleague Ana and I treat and accompany pregnant women so that all the changes that are occurring in their bodies, they adapt as they should. We do pain prevention and treatment , and we also teach pregnant women techniques such as perineal massage to promote tissue relaxation before childbirth .

We use manual therapy , therapeutic exercise , biofeedback and Indiba radiofrequency, one of our star postpartum treatments, as tools.

In addition, I offer online Baby Planner consultations to help plan for the baby's arrival so that expectant mothers can feel calm.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CONCERNS OF PREGNANT WOMEN? HOW CAN YOU GUIDE THEM TOWARD A HEALTHY AND CONSCIOUS PREGNANCY?

Most women, especially first-time mothers, experience uncertainty , ignorance, and fear when it comes to childbirth . There's so much information (or misinformation) out there these days, and everyone has an opinion , and it strikes me as odd that negative opinions seem to outweigh positive ones. Furthermore, there's been a lot of generational evolution ; the experiences and advice of our mothers or grandmothers are generally outdated, but they carry a lot of weight for us emotionally.

These days, there are also so many things to organize —sick leave, doctor's appointments, grocery shopping—all while still having to keep up with our daily routines at work, at home, and trying to remain productive. This pace really leaves us little time to connect with ourselves and fully experience the transformation we're experiencing from woman to mother.

Personalization is key to providing good treatment and service. Every woman has her own unique story, and each woman will experience different processes during pregnancy to ensure that this progress occurs.

Once you connect with the woman's uncertainties and goals, treating her physically while supporting her throughout her pregnancy will help her gradually connect with her feminine essence, with her pelvis , with her uterus , and that's often the trick. Women are prepared to give birth; we always have been; our role is to help her flow through her pregnancy in this 21st century.

WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT TO TAKE CARE OF THE PELVIC FLOOR DURING PREGNANCY AND HOW DOES IT INFLUENCE CHILDBIRTH AND RECOVERY?

Our pelvic floor is important at all stages of our lives. Its importance is most clearly understood during pregnancy, as this is where it will experience its greatest revolution: uterine growth , a more elastic pelvis , changes in the muscles, etc. But if we have cared for and maintained our perineum before pregnancy, the adaptation of the pelvis during pregnancy will have a very positive outcome.

The pelvic floor is called the "floor" because it is the base of the pelvis and spine. It provides stability and distributes pressure throughout the body, and it also houses the reproductive system, which connects to the intestines and rectum. Therefore, this "floor" is also important to consider when dealing with hormonal disorders and constipation .

Much is already known about the benefits of muscle work and pelvic floor exercise and control during pregnancy. Muscle quality , when worked, will prevent fewer difficulties during childbirth . For example, the famous perineal massage , which is already known not to prevent episiotomies, can contribute to avoiding or reducing tears . Fewer tears will improve the postpartum recovery for the mother. I'm including cesarean sections in this section. Just because you end up having a cesarean doesn't undo all the pelvic floor preparation work. The tissues will still appreciate it.

Also, if you manage to take care of your abdomen consciously and properly, you can help prevent the famous diastasis and/or recover your abdominal girdle more easily postpartum.

PREGNANCY ALSO INVOLVES EMOTIONAL CHANGES. HOW CAN SELF-CARE, INCLUDING A GOOD SKIN ROUTINE, INFLUENCE THIS?

Emotional health is incredibly important , which is why we love working in teams with other professionals to address and help more effectively. We have several points that, even though I'm not a professional in this specific area, I can help with from my profession:

1. Raise awareness among expectant mothers about physical and aesthetic care. Many mothers neglect pregnancy, wear baggy clothes, and overeat. We need to raise awareness that pregnancy is about showing off your bump and being proud; you can feel good at different sizes. Looking good always cheers you up.
2. Diet plays a very important role. Eating well with quality foods will help our entire system, which is under the most stress, perform better, including our thyroid. Hypothyroidism is one of the most common factors at this stage. With proper nutrition and medication, if necessary, we can help balance thyroid function because… Did you know that hypothyroidism is linked to postpartum depression? Yes, that's why it's very important to pay attention to ourselves.
3. Hormonal changes can cause changes in the expectant mother, such as acne and skin blemishes, or even worsen the condition in women with rosacea. Aside from checking thyroid levels during a blood test, improving your diet, and getting good sleep, my best dermatological advice is to cleanse your face morning and night. Add to this sunscreen to prevent the appearance of blemishes and a good serum.
4. Surround yourself with people who are supportive. For thousands of years, forming a tribe has always benefited pregnant women positively. We must encourage sisterhood.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT FOR YOU TO USE COSMETICS WITHOUT HARMFUL CHEMICALS DURING PREGNANCY?

This topic is incredibly important . Many women still choose products based on price, not quality and ingredients . Many products contain parabens , which have been seen to increase in recent years in cases of skin allergies and rosacea , among others.

During pregnancy, it is important to go towards natural cosmetics , which are formulated without chemical additives that could be harmful to both the mother and the baby .

During pregnancy, the skin becomes more sensitive and susceptible to absorbing substances , so it's crucial to select safe products. Additionally, while breastfeeding , any substance we apply to our skin has the potential to be passed on to the baby .

HOW DO HORMONAL CHANGES INFLUENCE THE SKIN AND WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND FOR CARE OF IT DURING PREGNANCY?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes significantly impact a woman's skin due to changes in estrogen , progesterone , and other hormone levels. These changes can lead to a variety of skin conditions , which vary from woman to woman. For example:

• Hyperpigmentation of the tissues occurs, here we would find the famous melasma or “pregnancy patch” which is due to the increase in melanin caused by estrogen.
• Acne : due to increased sebum production, stimulated by hormones.
• Stretch marks : caused by skin stretching. This indicates that the skin has little elasticity and isn't adapting well to the changes of pregnancy.
• Spider veins and/or varicose veins : Increased blood volume and hormonal changes can dilate blood vessels, making small veins visible on the skin.
• Edema , fluid retention in extremities or eyelids.
• Dry or sensitive skin : Some women experience excessive dryness or sensitivity of the skin, which can cause itching and discomfort, especially in the abdomen as the skin stretches.

During pregnancy, it's essential to take care of your skin with a few key habits. First, it's important to keep your skin well hydrated by applying creams or natural oils to prevent dryness and reduce the risk of stretch marks .

It is also essential to protect yourself from the sun by using broad-spectrum sunscreen to prevent the appearance of dark spots such as melasma .

When it comes to acne , it's advisable to opt for gentle products, avoiding harsh ingredients, and to thoroughly cleanse, as I mentioned earlier. I also recommend wearing comfortable cotton clothing to minimize friction on sensitive areas and promoting circulation by elevating your legs or wearing compression stockings if necessary to prevent the appearance of varicose veins. A very important point is to maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and drink plenty of water , which contribute to healthier skin .

TELL US SOME MYTHS ABOUT SKIN CARE DURING PREGNANCY

One common topic is stretch marks . While moisturizers and oils can improve skin elasticity and reduce the severity of stretch marks, there's no guaranteed way to completely prevent them . Stretch marks also depend on hormonal factors and your skin type . What you can do is keep your skin well hydrated to help keep it more supple .

I love to debunk the idea that " pregnant women can't use any facial products." There are natural, pregnancy-specific products that can be very helpful .

Another myth: “ Dry skin is normal and there's no treatment for it.” Dryness or itching due to skin stretching can be common, but it doesn't have to become normal. Keeping your skin moisturized can reduce discomfort and prevent irritation. If the itching is severe, it could be a symptom of a more serious condition, such as cholestasis of pregnancy, so it's advisable to consult a doctor.

TELL US ABOUT ENDOCRINE DISRUPTORS AND HOW THEY CAN AFFECT REPRODUCTIVE AND HORMONE HEALTH THROUGHOUT LIFE

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that can interfere with the body's hormonal system , also known as the endocrine system.

These substances mimic, block, or alter the action of natural hormones , which can cause a wide range of health problems, especially related to reproductive health and hormonal balance.

They are found in many everyday chemicals. They are present in some plastics , pesticides , personal hygiene products , cosmetics , processed foods , and even some household items such as detergents .

For example, if women experience excess estrogen , we should avoid products with disruptors to improve our health.

WHAT OTHER CHEMICALS IN COSMETICS DO YOU ADVISE PREGNANT WOMEN TO PAY ATTENTION TO?

In addition to endocrine disruptors, there are other chemicals present in cosmetic products that pregnant women should pay special attention to in order to avoid potential risks to their health and that of their developing baby .

Retinol is a vitamin A derivative found in many anti-aging products and acne creams. I recommend avoiding them and using them with caution .

WHAT TYPES OF TREATMENTS OR PRODUCTS ARE MOST EFFECTIVE IN MAINTAINING THE HEALTH OF PREGNANT WOMEN'S SKIN?

Generally speaking, the more natural the products and treatments, the better . And then, I really like customization , depending on the woman's skin type . But I always try to naturally regulate the skin's pH , deeply hydrate , and, very importantly, cleanse .

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO PREGNANT WOMEN WHEN CHOOSING COSMETICS THAT DO NOT COMPROMISE THEIR HEALTH OR THAT OF THE BABY?

Products with natural and organic ingredients tend to be safer , as they typically avoid harsh chemicals. I recommend choosing ones that don't contain pesticides or synthetic products . Likewise, try to avoid artificial perfumes or fragrances because they may contain phthalates , which are endocrine disruptors .

WHAT WOULD BE YOUR ADVICE ON READING LABELS AND CHOOSING COSMETIC PRODUCTS?

You should check the ingredient lists of the products you use, looking for products that specify they are free of parabens , phthalates , retinoids , and other potentially dangerous chemicals . And one piece of advice I often apply is to avoid those that don't clearly state their ingredients.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO COUPLES TO GET INVOLVED IN THE PREGNANCY PROCESS AND SUPPORT THE MOTHER-TO-BE IN HER PHYSICAL AND EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING?

It's essential for couples to maintain fluid , honest , and empathetic communication. Talking about emotions, fears, and expectations related to pregnancy helps strengthen the connection and address challenges together. Being available to listen without judgment can make a huge difference to both partners' emotional well-being.

As a woman, I often advise other women to let their fathers learn how to be future parents . I'm going to generalize, but we often tend to want to control everything, and we don't let them make mistakes or experiment. Trust and respect are two super important values.

On the physical side, a partner, especially during labor, can greatly help alleviate physical discomfort and provide support for the woman. Especially during the transition from 7-8 cm dilation into labor, good moral support , and if we get down to it, physical support (massage, shawl, etc.) can be excellent.

BESIDES PREGNANT WOMEN, HOW DO YOU HELP WOMEN WHO ARE PLANNING A PREGNANCY?

The period leading up to pregnancy is a wonderful time to prepare your body and mind , and my work offers a holistic approach to optimizing your physical health and emotional well-being.

The physical preparation portion can help women strengthen their core , pelvic floor, and back , better preparing them to endure the physical changes of pregnancy. A strong, well-aligned body can prevent common problems like back pain and avoid complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

As a baby planner , I offer guidance on healthy habits, nutrition, proper exercise and the care you should take before and after , plus all the appointment planning , clothing , products and emotional management tips .

I focus heavily on providing personalized advice . My holistic approach includes recommendations on products and resources suited to fertility and emotional well-being , helping you stay informed about your body and the conception process.

Those who have already given birth may have specific needs related to their previous pregnancy and postpartum , and my services can be tailored to them in various ways, as each person is unique. If they are planning another baby, I can help them prepare their bodies for a new pregnancy, addressing any challenges they may have faced previously, such as C-section scars or physical stress. These are cases that sometimes require a significant amount of support, especially in cases with more negative previous experiences . Here, guided techniques and exercises to reduce stress or anxiety also come into play.

HOW DOES PELVIC FLOOR CARE INFLUENCE POSTPARTUM RECOVERY AND THE RELATIONSHIP?

First and foremost, a strong pelvic floor helps prevent common postpartum problems, such as urinary and fecal incontinence. Many women face this after giving birth, and it can be very uncomfortable and emotionally draining. Strengthening your pelvic floor not only helps prevent these problems but also improves your quality of life . Additionally, a healthy pelvic floor provides the necessary support for your internal organs , preventing long-term complications like prolapse .

But that's not all. It also directly influences your sex life . A strong pelvic floor can improve sexual sensitivity and function , which is key for many women who notice changes in their intimate lives after childbirth. By improving sexual function, you can also restore confidence and pleasure . The better your perineal muscle quality , the quality of your orgasms will also be directly proportional.

On a physical level, pelvic floor care is linked to abdominal recovery . Many women experience abdominal diastasis, which is the separation of the abdominal muscles.

Working on the pelvic floor helps close that separation, improving not only aesthetics, but also posture and overall health .

DO YOU HAVE A SKINCARE ROUTINE THAT YOU WOULD RECOMMEND FOR PREGNANT WOMEN?

My routine was always the same: facial cleansing , toner to regulate my skin's pH, eye cream , serum, and night moisturizer or regenerator . And I still use this.

On days when I couldn't handle everything, cleaning and using a fire hydrant with protection were the basics.

WHAT OTHER TIPS WOULD YOU GIVE FOR MAINTAINING A HEALTHY SELF-CARE ROUTINE DURING PREGNANCY AND POSTPARTUM?

Maintaining good nutrition and hydration is essential for physical and emotional health, especially during the postpartum period. Proper nutrition provides the essential nutrients your body needs to recover and is also a fundamental pillar for hormonal health . Including a variety of foods rich in vitamins and minerals , such as fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats , will not only also benefit your energy and mood. Hydration is equally crucial, as water is vital for maintaining body fluid balance, aiding in digestion , and promoting healthy skin . A good rule of thumb is to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day , although this can vary depending on physical activity and individual needs.

In addition to nutrition and hydration, strength training is an excellent way to help regulate hormones in the body. By strengthening the muscles, you also support pelvic floor health and prevent problems like abdominal diastasis.

Incorporating strength training into your routine not only tones your body , but also releases endorphins , the happiness hormones, which can improve your mood .

Complementing strength training with cardio activities is key to keeping your heart healthy and improving your endurance. Whether walking, swimming, or playing sports, cardiovascular exercise not only burns calories , but also improves circulation and helps reduce stress . On the other hand, integrating practices like Pilates or yoga can be very beneficial for flexibility and the mind-body connection. These disciplines not only help tone and stretch muscles, but also encourage relaxation and mindfulness, which can be especially valuable in the hustle and bustle of motherhood.

Let's not forget the importance of good posture and breathing habits . After giving birth , many women may experience back tension and discomfort due to the burden of caring for a baby. Maintaining good posture will help prevent pain and also improve spinal alignment and pelvic floor function.

And speaking of breathing, it's essential to relearn how to breathe properly. Proper breathing not only oxygenates your body , but also activates the parasympathetic nervous system , which helps reduce anxiety and stress . Practicing deep breathing techniques, such as diaphragmatic breathing, can be an excellent exercise for calming the mind and body , promoting an overall sense of well-being.

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