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Varicosities During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also brings a number of changes to the body. One of the common issues many women experience is varicosities — swollen, twisted veins that develop just under the skin. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally harmless and can often be managed with simple strategies. In this blog, we’ll break down what varicosities are, why they happen during pregnancy, the signs to look for, and what you can do to relieve symptoms. What Are Varicosities? Varicosities are veins that become enlarged and visible under the skin. They most often occur in the legs, but pregnancy can also lead to vulvar varicosities and rectal varicosities (commonly known as hemorrhoids). These veins can appear blue or purple and may bulge above the surface of the skin. Some women experience discomfort, while others may simply notice the cosmetic changes. Why Do They Happen in Pregnancy? Several factors during pregnancy contribute to the development of varicosities: Increased blood volume: During pregnancy, your body produces more blood to support your growing baby. This extra volume puts added pressure on your veins. Hormonal changes: The hormone progesterone relaxes the walls of your veins, making them more likely to swell. Pressure from the uterus: As your uterus grows, it presses on the pelvic veins, slowing circulation and increasing pressure in the lower body. Genetics: If your family members experienced varicose veins, you may be more likely to develop them as well. Common Types of Varicosities in Pregnancy Leg varicose veins – swollen, bulging veins that often appear on the calves or thighs. Vulvar varicosities – swelling and visible veins in the vulvar area, which can cause heaviness or discomfort. Hemorrhoids – varicosities in the rectal area, often made worse by constipation and straining. Signs and Symptoms Varicosities may present with: Blue or purple bulging veins Aching or heaviness in the legs or groin Itching, throbbing, or tenderness Swelling around the affected area Discomfort that worsens after standing or sitting for long periods Prevention and Relief Tips While varicosities can’t always be prevented, there are many ways to relieve discomfort and stop them from worsening: Move regularly: Avoid sitting or standing still for long stretches. Get up and walk around every hour. Elevate your legs : Resting with your legs propped up helps improve circulation and reduce swelling. Wear compression stockings: These provide support and assist blood flow back toward the heart. Stay active: Daily walks and gentle exercise promote circulation. Hydrate well: Adequate water intake helps prevent constipation, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids. Eat a high-fibre diet: Fibre-rich foods keep your bowels regular and prevent straining. When to Call Your Doctor Most varicosities are harmless, but it’s important to seek medical advice if you notice: Sudden pain or swelling in the leg Skin discoloration or ulcers around a vein Bleeding from a varicosity Signs of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis), such as warmth, redness, or severe pain in the calf The Good News The reassuring news is that most varicosities improve significantly after delivery as blood volume and hormonal levels return to normal. Conservative measures are usually very effective, and in most cases, varicosities don’t cause complications during pregnancy or labor. Final Thoughts Varicosities are a normal and common part of pregnancy for many women. While they can be uncomfortable, they are usually temporary and manageable with lifestyle strategies. If you’re experiencing varicosities, talk with your physiotherapist or healthcare provider. They can help guide you with safe management strategies to keep you comfortable and reduce symptoms throughout your pregnancy.

Supporting Transmasculine and Transfeminine Clients Through Bottom Surgery: The Role of Physiotherapy Bottom surgery is a powerful and deeply affirming step for many both transmasculine and transfeminine individuals. Whether someone is preparing for vaginoplasty, vulvoplasty or phalloplasty, the journey is not just surgical—it’s physical, emotional, and functional. Physiotherapy can play a key role in optimising outcomes and supporting a safe, confident return to daily life. At our clinic, we work closely with clients before and after gender-affirming surgeries to ensure their pelvic and overall health is considered throughout their surgical journey. Pre-Surgery Preparation: Laying the Foundation Before surgery, our physiotherapy sessions focus on building a strong foundation. This includes: Understanding Your Body’s Baseline We begin by gaining a thorough understanding of your current: Bladder and bowel function – Are there any concerns with urgency, leakage, constipation, or straining? Pelvic floor tone and coordination – We assess whether your muscles are overactive, weak, or uncoordinated, which can impact recovery. Intimate or sexual function – If relevant and comfortable for the client, we explore areas of sensitivity, pain, or tension that may influence post-op outcomes. These baseline assessments guide us in creating a tailored prehabilitation program that optimises your function and supports a smoother recovery. Optimising Pelvic Health Pelvic health plays a crucial role in: Managing urination and bowel habits post-surgery Supporting circulation and tissue healing Reducing pelvic pain or tightness Preparing muscles for dilation (if applicable) We also look at core strength, breathing, posture , and general mobility —especially important for improving blood flow, wound healing, and reducing post-op complications. Post-Surgery Recovery: Gentle, Guided Support After surgery, our work shifts to supporting your healing and helping you return to your life with comfort and confidence. Wound Care & Scar Management We guide you through: Gentle scar tissue mobilisations (when appropriate) Promoting circulation to reduce swelling Supporting healing around graft or donor sites (e.g., arm, thigh) Dilation & Tissue Care For clients undergoing phalloplasty or metoidioplasty involving a urethral lengthening or neo-vaginal closure, pelvic physiotherapy may include: Education around dilation (where applicable) Pain management strategies Breathwork and relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension Returning to Life and Movement We support: Safe return to walking, lifting, cycling, gym or sports Managing fatigue and pacing during recovery Addressing any bladder, bowel or sexual function changes We also hold space for the emotional aspects of recovery. This is a major life transition, and our approach is compassionate, gender-affirming, and always client-led. We Are With You All the Way Our goal is to make your body feel more like home. Whether you're months away from surgery or already on the other side, we’re here to walk beside you with skilled hands, open minds, and affirming care. If you’re considering bottom surgery or in the recovery phase, get in touch to see how pelvic physiotherapy can support your goals and wellbeing.

Understanding Clitorodynia: Yes, It’s Real—And Yes, There’s Help Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get talked about enough: Clitorodynia . Clitorodynia is a condition involving chronic clitoral pain , and for many, it can feel isolating, confusing, and incredibly frustrating. If you’ve experienced burning, aching, or stabbing sensations around the clitoris—especially during everyday activities like sitting, walking, or even showering—you’re not alone. And more importantly, you're not imagining it. What Does Clitorodynia Feel Like? Clitorodynia can show up in a variety of ways, including: Burning or stinging sensations Sharp, stabbing pain Itching, irritation, or rawness Throbbing or tenderness Pain during movement, sexual activity, or even at rest Sometimes numbness or tingling that spreads to the pelvis For some, symptoms may come and go. For others, they’re persistent. Even things like urination or using certain soaps can trigger discomfort. If you ever experience severe pain along with symptoms like a fever or rapid heart rate, it’s important to seek urgent medical attention. The Good News: You Don’t Have to Suffer in Silence At Pelvic Health Melbourne , we understand how deeply clitorodynia can impact daily life—and how often it's misunderstood or dismissed. That’s why our approach is rooted in empathy, education, and evidence-based care. Our team works with you to tailor a plan that supports healing and comfort. Some of the tools and techniques we use include: Mindfulness and breathwork to soothe the nervous system TENS therapy (gentle electrical stimulation) for pain relief Gentle stretching and pelvic floor downtraining Internal muscle release techniques , when appropriate Personalised advice on skincare, pain triggers, and referrals for further support, including medications or imaging if needed You’re Not Alone—and You’re Not Making It Up If you’ve ever been told “it’s all in your head” or felt dismissed by healthcare providers, we want you to know: we see you . Clitorodynia is real, and help is available. You deserve answers. You deserve relief. And at Pelvic Health Melbourne, we’re here to help you find both.