A woman screaming in pain from strong contractions. Photo: Getty
It is two years since ACC began funding treatment for birth injuries - but one expert says not nearly enough mothers are getting the help they need.
ACC covers injuries caused during labour and birth which can cause urinary and fecal incontinence, organ prolapse, as well as perineal, vaginal and labial tears.
Last year, there were just under 57 thousand live births.
But in the two years since ACC began covering birth injuries, just under 14 thousand claims have been lodged.
Wellington pelvic health physiotherapist Liz Childs says many birthing parents and health professionals are unaware they can access help.
But she says there are also financial barriers, as the treatment is not fully funded by ACC, and private physios have to charge a surcharge.
She says waiting lists for treatment in public hospitals are very long and that many smaller provincial towns do not have specialist physiotherapy for birth injuries.
Liz Childs recommends this free guide for information about bladder and bowel control in pregnancy and after childbirth.
