Pregnancy and Post-Natal Physio

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in helping women recover after childbirth. The changing body shape, effect of hormones and process of childbirth can all lead to specific issues and these are best assessed and treated by a therapist who has specialised skills in this area. Some of these changes may occur around your pelvis, in parts of your spine, but also can occur in a range of areas of your body. It is likely that your pelvic floor muscle system (and possibly other muscles), have been stressed by the childbirth process and its helpful to get some guidance from someone who knows how to assess your individual needs. All of these issues may be compounded by the post-natal phase where sleep deprivation is common, as is extra physical demands such as breastfeeding, lifting, and carrying a baby.

The best way to support your body after birth is to prioritise rest. Spending plenty of time lying down during the first 3–4 weeks postpartum can significantly aid healing and recovery. Gentle stretches, pelvic floor engagement, and deep core activations can begin within a few days, but it’s best to wait until around six weeks before resuming more activity.

If you experience back, neck, or wrist pain—or symptoms of mastitis—you can see a physiotherapist straight away. A full postnatal physiotherapy assessment is generally recommended from six weeks postpartum, where your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles can be assessed, a tailored exercise plan created, and guidance provided on safely returning to more intensive physical activity.

Yes, physiotherapy is highly effective in supporting pelvic floor recovery after pregnancy. During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles—which support the bladder, uterus, and bowel—undergo significant strain. This can lead to common postnatal issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, back pain, and weakened core strength. A women’s health physiotherapist can assess your specific needs, and guide a safe and structured recovery to restore pelvic floor function and prevent long-term complications.

Why is Pelvic Floor Recovery Important Post-Pregnancy?

• After pregnancy and delivery, weakened pelvic floor muscles can cause:
• Urinary incontinence (e.g., leaking when sneezing, coughing, or exercising)
• Pelvic organ prolapse (a sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis)
• Lower back, hip, or pelvic pain
• Reduced core stability (increasing injury risk and postural issues)
• Pain during intercourse
• Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)
• Physiotherapy helps to strengthen the pelvic floor, improve core stability, and minimize symptoms, ensuring long-term pelvic health.

How Can Physiotherapy Help with Pelvic Floor Recovery?

1. Comprehensive Pelvic Floor Assessment

• Evaluates pelvic floor strength, endurance, and coordination
• May include external assessments, real-time ultrasound imaging, or internal examinations (if appropriate)
• Identifies muscle weaknesses, imbalances, or overactivity

2. Personalized Pelvic Floor Exercises

• Teaches correct activation and relaxation of pelvic floor muscles
• Provides a tailored program to rebuild strength, endurance, and control
• Integrates breathing techniques and core activation for optimal recovery

3. Core Rehabilitation & Diastasis Recti Recovery

• Addresses abdominal separation using safe, progressive core exercises
• Strengthens the deep core muscles (transverse abdominis) to support the pelvic floor

4. Posture & Movement Education

• Provides advice on lifting, feeding, and daily movements to reduce pelvic strain
• Teaches strategies to manage pressure on the pelvic floor (e.g., during coughing or exercising)

5. Guidance on Returning to Exercise

• Develops a gradual return-to-exercise plan focused on protecting the pelvic floor
• Assesses readiness for higher-impact activities like running or strength training

6. Manual Therapy & Pain Relief (if needed)

• Soft tissue massage and myofascial release for pelvic pain, scar tissue, or C-section recovery
• Techniques to relieve back, hip, or pelvic girdle pain

Common Postnatal Concerns Physiotherapy Can Help With:

• Urinary incontinence or urgency
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
• Pelvic pain or pelvic floor dysfunction
• Lower back, hip, or pelvic girdle pain
• Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
• C-section scar tissue tightness or adhesions
• Guidance on returning to sport and exercise