September 2018 Newsletter
Making Sense of your Menstrual Cycle
Menstrual cycles can vary greatly from one woman to the next, but by becoming more in tune with your cycle, you can gain a better understanding and appreciation of the way your body feels and acts. The best way to accomplish this is by tracking your menstrual cycle for 2-3 months through a journal or computer/phone application. You can track things such as the first day your period, how long your period last, time of ovulation, any symptoms you feel around the time of your period, and how you feel throughout your cycle both physically and emotionally. The following information is an example based off of a typical 28 day cycle.
The first day of a woman’s period is considered day 1 of her cycle, and bleeding for 3-7 days is considered normal. Due to the rise in estrogen and testosterone that occurs during the first 1-2 weeks of the cycle, specifically around day 3, a woman will likely feel more energy, more confidence, and more focused during this time. This might be a time she feels more inclined to take a risk such as having a difficult conversation, making a new friend, or challenging herself to grow professionally, academically, or athletically.
Just prior to ovulation, there is a surge in hormones that might present as a boost in energy, thus a time a woman feels she can get a lot accomplished. During ovulation, which typically occurs around day 14-15, women will feel an increase in sex drive, feel more attractive, and feel more courageous compared to other points in the cycle.
After ovulation, there is a drop in testosterone and an initial drop in estrogen, although estrogen does return to a medium level for the remainder of the cycle. This is the time progesterone dominates. Because of this, throughout week 3 and into the early part of week 4, a woman might feel the need for some down time. This can present as a desire for bonding time with close female friends and/or alone time to rest and reflect through reading or journaling. This would also be an ideal time to plan something creative, such as an art project one has been wanting to take on.
Lastly, during the latter part of week 4, it is very important to nourish the body through self-care, diet, and sleep/rest. This will help to decrease potential PMS symptoms leading up to the next period. By taking the time to learn your body’s menstrual cycle, you will gain a better understanding of why you are feeling certain ways throughout the month. Additionally, you may even choose to navigate your life differently based on where you are in your cycle in order to achieve your highest potential.
The first day of a woman’s period is considered day 1 of her cycle, and bleeding for 3-7 days is considered normal. Due to the rise in estrogen and testosterone that occurs during the first 1-2 weeks of the cycle, specifically around day 3, a woman will likely feel more energy, more confidence, and more focused during this time. This might be a time she feels more inclined to take a risk such as having a difficult conversation, making a new friend, or challenging herself to grow professionally, academically, or athletically.
Just prior to ovulation, there is a surge in hormones that might present as a boost in energy, thus a time a woman feels she can get a lot accomplished. During ovulation, which typically occurs around day 14-15, women will feel an increase in sex drive, feel more attractive, and feel more courageous compared to other points in the cycle.
After ovulation, there is a drop in testosterone and an initial drop in estrogen, although estrogen does return to a medium level for the remainder of the cycle. This is the time progesterone dominates. Because of this, throughout week 3 and into the early part of week 4, a woman might feel the need for some down time. This can present as a desire for bonding time with close female friends and/or alone time to rest and reflect through reading or journaling. This would also be an ideal time to plan something creative, such as an art project one has been wanting to take on.
Lastly, during the latter part of week 4, it is very important to nourish the body through self-care, diet, and sleep/rest. This will help to decrease potential PMS symptoms leading up to the next period. By taking the time to learn your body’s menstrual cycle, you will gain a better understanding of why you are feeling certain ways throughout the month. Additionally, you may even choose to navigate your life differently based on where you are in your cycle in order to achieve your highest potential.
Online Bill Pay
We now offer an online payment portal for you to make your payments safely and quickly!
Please visit www.sullivanphysicaltherapy.com/payments.html.
For more information please email:
Holly@sullivanphysicaltherapy.com
Please visit www.sullivanphysicaltherapy.com/payments.html.
For more information please email:
Holly@sullivanphysicaltherapy.com
SPT Spotlight
Amethyst Guerrero, Physical Therapist
Amethyst received her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology from Texas A&M University and her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in August 2017. While in school, she received the Outstanding Physical Therapy Student of the Year Award.
Amethyst became interested in pelvic health from growing up in an openly communicative and matriarchal family; she realized many women needed help and didn't know where to find it. She completed a 3 month internship with Sullivan Physical Therapy where she gained further inspiration and knowledge to treat women's and men's pelvic conditions. She is eager to build an open line of communication, provide evidence based practice, and make treatment sessions directly relatable to patient values.
Amethyst is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has taken continuing education classes to expand her knowledge of pelvic floor anatomy, diagnoses and treatments.
Amethyst is from Corpus Christi, Texas and misses reading and running on the beach. She enjoys eating new foods, camping, country western dancing, and game nights with family.
Amethyst became interested in pelvic health from growing up in an openly communicative and matriarchal family; she realized many women needed help and didn't know where to find it. She completed a 3 month internship with Sullivan Physical Therapy where she gained further inspiration and knowledge to treat women's and men's pelvic conditions. She is eager to build an open line of communication, provide evidence based practice, and make treatment sessions directly relatable to patient values.
Amethyst is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. She has taken continuing education classes to expand her knowledge of pelvic floor anatomy, diagnoses and treatments.
Amethyst is from Corpus Christi, Texas and misses reading and running on the beach. She enjoys eating new foods, camping, country western dancing, and game nights with family.
Upcoming Dates
September 4
Our schedule will open for the next quarter. You are welcome to book appointments
you need through January 4th. If you are unsure of the frequency to set your appointments,
be sure to talk to your physical therapist!
September 4
Christina McGee will be presenting on common pelvic floor diagnoses at Austin Area Birthing Center North Centering group. Moms and partners will learn what to watch for and general self care tips through pregnancy and postpartum as well as learning when to seek pelvic floor physical therapy.
September 4
UsToo Prostate Support Group: Mike Jones Memorial Chapter will be
at 7pm to 8:30 pm at St.David's South Austin Medical Center
September 8
Pelvic Pain Support Group 10 to 11:15 am 4131 Spicewood Springs Road Suite M-1 Austin, Texas 78759
RSVP prior to joining the group: brittanyneece@gmail.com or 512-814-6027
September 9
Christina McGee will be hosting a padsicle making party for pregnant moms in their third trimester at
Austin Area Birthing Center North. The group will discuss perineal healing following delivery.
Attending moms need not be seeking care at AABC.
September 15
Rachel Madera will be attending a trauma informed care course for birth and postpartum professionals.
September 16
Padsicle making party Austin Area Birthing Center South.
Attending moms need not be seeking care at AABC.
September 18
Christina McGee will be meeting with Dr. Grady Bruce of Urology Austin
to discuss prolapse management approaches
October 1 - November 5
Mondays in October and November there will be a yoga series for optimal pelvic health called Yoga for your Pelvic Floor. This will be held at Pure Light Chiropractic and Wellness. $250 for all six classes. For more information please email Dr. Sandi at hello@drsandi.com or call/text her at 901-233-3564.
Our schedule will open for the next quarter. You are welcome to book appointments
you need through January 4th. If you are unsure of the frequency to set your appointments,
be sure to talk to your physical therapist!
September 4
Christina McGee will be presenting on common pelvic floor diagnoses at Austin Area Birthing Center North Centering group. Moms and partners will learn what to watch for and general self care tips through pregnancy and postpartum as well as learning when to seek pelvic floor physical therapy.
September 4
UsToo Prostate Support Group: Mike Jones Memorial Chapter will be
at 7pm to 8:30 pm at St.David's South Austin Medical Center
September 8
Pelvic Pain Support Group 10 to 11:15 am 4131 Spicewood Springs Road Suite M-1 Austin, Texas 78759
RSVP prior to joining the group: brittanyneece@gmail.com or 512-814-6027
September 9
Christina McGee will be hosting a padsicle making party for pregnant moms in their third trimester at
Austin Area Birthing Center North. The group will discuss perineal healing following delivery.
Attending moms need not be seeking care at AABC.
September 15
Rachel Madera will be attending a trauma informed care course for birth and postpartum professionals.
September 16
Padsicle making party Austin Area Birthing Center South.
Attending moms need not be seeking care at AABC.
September 18
Christina McGee will be meeting with Dr. Grady Bruce of Urology Austin
to discuss prolapse management approaches
October 1 - November 5
Mondays in October and November there will be a yoga series for optimal pelvic health called Yoga for your Pelvic Floor. This will be held at Pure Light Chiropractic and Wellness. $250 for all six classes. For more information please email Dr. Sandi at hello@drsandi.com or call/text her at 901-233-3564.
Updates from the Physical Therapy Team
Our physical therapy team had their quarterly in-service meeting in August in regards to expanding cultural competency in our profession. Part of the American Physical Therapy Association Code of Ethics states “Physical Therapists shall act in a respectful manner toward each person regardless of age, gender, race, nationality, religion, ethnicity, social or economic status, sexual orientation, health condition, or disability.” We were honored to have Charmecia Morris, M.A. LPC Intern, who is supervised by Heather McPherson LPC-S, LMFTS, CST from Respark Therapy, as our presenter. In an effort to effectively provide better care for people from varied backgrounds, she provided education on Arabs, Muslims, and the Middle East.
Learning more about this culture helps us prevent barriers to treatment; we gained improved awareness of the core values of Middle Eastern culture and learned about the 5 pillars of Islam. Some of these values include honor, hospitality, generosity and loyalty. The 5 pillars of Islam include declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salat), charity and alms giving (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Saum), and the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). Additionally, we learned about family relationships and how they may be similar or different to that of western family dynamics. We also compared and contrasted greetings, emotional expressions, naming, modesty, and gender roles. Having a greater understanding of this culture allows us to improve quality of care to our patients and prevent hindrances to improvement.
Learning more about this culture helps us prevent barriers to treatment; we gained improved awareness of the core values of Middle Eastern culture and learned about the 5 pillars of Islam. Some of these values include honor, hospitality, generosity and loyalty. The 5 pillars of Islam include declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salat), charity and alms giving (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Saum), and the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). Additionally, we learned about family relationships and how they may be similar or different to that of western family dynamics. We also compared and contrasted greetings, emotional expressions, naming, modesty, and gender roles. Having a greater understanding of this culture allows us to improve quality of care to our patients and prevent hindrances to improvement.
PT Below the Waist
Jamille Niewiara and Jessica Chastka are co-hosts of a podcast called "PT: Below the Waist", a patient oriented podcast discussing topics related to pelvic floor physical therapy and how it addresses bladder, bowel, and sexual function issues. The podcast features two pelvic floor physical therapists casually conversing about their experiences and thoughts towards pelvic floor related issues.
Every few weeks, they will be posting podcasts about different diagnoses, tips/recommendations to address symptoms, and interviews with medical professionals. Subscribe to their podcast on iTunes, follow them on Twitter @PTBelowTheWaist, and like them on FaceBook. Leave comments and questions on their email: PTBelowTheWaist@gmail.com.
Sullivan Physical Therapy encourages you to listen to their podcasts and get enlightened about "Better Pee, Better Poo, Better Sex".
To listen to our latest podcast please click here.
Every few weeks, they will be posting podcasts about different diagnoses, tips/recommendations to address symptoms, and interviews with medical professionals. Subscribe to their podcast on iTunes, follow them on Twitter @PTBelowTheWaist, and like them on FaceBook. Leave comments and questions on their email: PTBelowTheWaist@gmail.com.
Sullivan Physical Therapy encourages you to listen to their podcasts and get enlightened about "Better Pee, Better Poo, Better Sex".
To listen to our latest podcast please click here.
Sullivan Physical Therapy & Austin Area Birthing Center
Postpartum pelvic floor physical therapy is standard in some other countries, with health systems recognizing that preventative care during the crucial healing period following delivery can save women from future suffering and save the system hundreds of thousands of dollars in medications and surgeries farther down the line. Problems such as incontinence, prolapse, scar pain, diastasis recti, back or hip pain, and pain with intercourse can be addressed and eliminated or even prevented all together with a post partum evaluation and recommendations or exercises from a pelvic floor physical therapist trained in postpartum health. To this point, these services are rarely offered in the United States.
Sullivan Physical Therapy is excited to partner with Austin Area Birthing Center in creating this type of whole- person care for clients. Christina McGee PT, DPT, will be on site at Austin Area Birthing Center South Thursday afternoons to provide physical therapy evaluations and treatments to pregnant and postpartum AABC clients to maximize health and healing and allow patients to get back to activities safely following delivery. At this time, insurance will not be accepted for visits performed at AABC.
Please contact Sullivan Physical Therapy to learn more about this service and schedule an appointment or email christina@sullivanphysicaltherapy.com.
Sullivan Physical Therapy is excited to partner with Austin Area Birthing Center in creating this type of whole- person care for clients. Christina McGee PT, DPT, will be on site at Austin Area Birthing Center South Thursday afternoons to provide physical therapy evaluations and treatments to pregnant and postpartum AABC clients to maximize health and healing and allow patients to get back to activities safely following delivery. At this time, insurance will not be accepted for visits performed at AABC.
Please contact Sullivan Physical Therapy to learn more about this service and schedule an appointment or email christina@sullivanphysicaltherapy.com.
Tightly Wound
Tightly Wound is a 10-minute animated film that follows Shelby’s experience with vaginismus; a pelvic floor condition characterized by involuntary contractions of the pelvic floor muscles that tighten the vaginal entrance, causing pain, penetration problems, and inability to have intercourse. It chronicles the various ways it has affected her life – how health professionals have failed her, men have rejected her, and shame, anger, and hatred have plagued her body. Tightly Wound is based on Shelby's essay that was published in BUST Magazine in the Oct/Nov 2016 issue.
Sullivan Physical Therapy is an executive producer of the film and we are proud to announce the film has been selected for the following film festivals:
Sullivan Physical Therapy is an executive producer of the film and we are proud to announce the film has been selected for the following film festivals:
New Orleans Film Festival
New Orleans, Louisiana
October 17 - 25, 2018
Filmets Bardelona Film Festival
Barcelona, Spain
October 19 - October 28, 2018
Please watch the trailer:
https://vimeo.com/188456092
For more information:
www.tightlywoundfilm.com
New Orleans, Louisiana
October 17 - 25, 2018
Filmets Bardelona Film Festival
Barcelona, Spain
October 19 - October 28, 2018
Please watch the trailer:
https://vimeo.com/188456092
For more information:
www.tightlywoundfilm.com
