LEARNING OBJECTIVES

1. Brief understanding of the anatomy of the pelvic floor

2. Understanding of the hormonal and postural changes that occur during pregnancy and the impact on the pelvic floor.

3. Understand the common terminology used around pregnancy and birth, history taking and red flags when treating a pregnant patient.

4. ​​Understand the indications of external pelvic floor examination and treatment for a pregnant person, including consent.

5. Develop confidence in external myofascial release techniques to treat the pelvic floor to help create space for the birthing patient and help prepare them for birth

6. Understand the birthing culture in Australia and birthing options available

7. Understand the physiology of birth and its importance in helping improve birth outcomes, along with how osteopaths can support their patients through language and education.

8. Understand induction; the history, risks and benefits based on research along with implications for osteopathic practice

9. Understand the biomechanics of creating space and the role of an osteopath in helping to improve outcomes through education, active birth positions and manual treatment.

10. Understand the role of the pelvis during the birth process along with different positions a baby may present in and the  impact on delivery outcomes. 

11. Understand the neurophysiology of labour pain, including  what can impact our patient's perception of pain. Gain an understanding on how to educate your patient to work with pain during birth from a biopsychosocial approach. 

12. Understand and gain confidence in best evidence based practice for reducing the risk of perineal tears including education your patient on how to do a perineal massage