Breaking the Stigma: Nicola Farndale’s Journey to Empower Women Through Pelvic Floor Health

Nicola Farndale, founder of Life Now Coaching, is on a mission to transform women’s health by shedding light on the often-overlooked challenges of postpartum recovery.

Drawing from her personal experiences, Nicola shares her journey through anxiety, childbirth trauma, and the profound impact of pelvic floor issues, emphasizing the importance of education, support, and empowerment.

Navigating Anxiety and Motherhood

Nicola’s journey to motherhood began with a history of anxiety and panic disorder, which compounded her worries about pregnancy and childbirth. After a challenging labor, she suffered trauma to her bladder and pelvic floor, leading to incontinence.

This physical struggle deeply affected her confidence and mental health. Reflecting on the experience, Nicola shares, “Nobody had ever explained... that the after bit could be so difficult.”

A peaceful moment as a newborn rests snugly on a caregiver's shoulder, wearing a cozy hat with bear ears.

Breaking the Silence Around Pelvic Floor Health

Pelvic floor issues, like incontinence, are common yet often shrouded in stigma and shame. Nicola highlights the lack of education and awareness about pelvic floor health, noting that many women are only introduced to the concept of Kegels during pregnancy—if at all. “We deserve to know we’re worthy and that we’re valuable,” Nicola asserts, calling for open conversations and breaking the silence surrounding these challenges.

The Need for Better Support

Postpartum care often overlooks the long-term effects of childbirth on a woman’s body. Nicola emphasizes that pelvic floor issues are common but not normal, and women should not have to accept them as inevitable. She advocates for increased education about pelvic floor health from a young age and better postpartum support, particularly in healthcare systems like the UK’s, where many women feel abandoned after giving birth.

A person confidently performs a backbend stretching exercise on a stability ball, showcasing balance and flexibility in a dimly lit studio.

A Turning Point and a New Mission

For Nicola, undergoing surgery to address her pelvic floor issues was life-changing, but the journey didn’t end there. Recognizing the importance of ongoing support and rehabilitation, she prioritized her well-being and transitioned into a career as a health coach. Today, Nicola empowers women to take control of their health, emphasizing the importance of self-care, education, and seeking necessary treatment.

A Call to Action

Nicola’s story is a powerful reminder that women deserve better postpartum care and support. By breaking the stigma and encouraging open conversations, she is paving the way for a future where pelvic floor health is prioritized, and women feel empowered to live fulfilling lives. Her message is clear: “We get this one life. Let’s live it with confidence and joy.”

*Catch Nicola's episode here!

*This post was crafted by AI, utilizing details and transcripts from Nicola's podcast episode.