Your body goes through significant physical change during pregnancy and birth — whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or caesarean section. Many women notice symptoms after birth such as pelvic floor weakness, abdominal separation, back pain, or uncertainty about returning to exercise.
Postnatal physiotherapy provides a structured, supportive way to assess recovery, address symptoms, and help you rebuild strength and confidence safely.
Even if your pregnancy or birth was uncomplicated, postnatal changes are common — and often overlooked.
Postnatal physiotherapy helps:
- Restore pelvic floor and core function
- Address abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Reduce back, hip and pelvic pain
- Improve posture and movement while caring for your baby
- Build confidence returning to exercise and daily activities
- Prevent long-term pelvic floor or musculoskeletal issues
Early assessment can make recovery smoother and more effective.
What We Assess Postnatally
A postnatal physiotherapy assessment looks at how your body is functioning as a whole.
Assessment may include:
- Pelvic floor strength, coordination and endurance
- Abdominal wall and core control
- Presence and severity of abdominal separation
- Posture and movement patterns
- Hip, back and pelvic stability
- Readiness to return to walking, gym, Pilates or running
All assessments are explained clearly, and pelvic floor assessment is only performed with your consent.
Postnatal physiotherapy can help with:
- Pelvic floor weakness or heaviness
- Bladder leakage or urgency
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Lower back or pelvic pain
- Pain with exercise or lifting
- Core weakness or instability
- Difficulty returning to running or sport
- Discomfort following caesarean section
You don’t need to wait until symptoms become severe to seek help.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
Your postnatal physio appointment is focused on reassurance, clarity, and practical steps forward.
It typically includes:
- Discussion of your birth, symptoms, and current activity level
- Postural and movement assessment
- Core and pelvic floor assessment (if appropriate)
- Individualised exercise and recovery plan
- Advice on lifting, feeding positions, walking and daily tasks
We aim to give you clear guidance — not a long list of exercises you won’t use.
When Should You Book Postnatal Physio?
Many women benefit from physiotherapy:
- Around 6–8 weeks postpartum,
- Earlier if experiencing pain, heaviness, or leakage
- Before returning to gym, Pilates, or running
- If symptoms persist months or years after birth
It’s never “too late” to improve recovery.
Returning to Exercise After Birth
Returning to exercise too quickly — or without guidance — can increase the risk of pelvic floor symptoms or injury.
Postnatal physiotherapy helps you:
- Rebuild strength safely
- Progress exercise at the right pace
- Avoid unnecessary strain on the pelvic floor
- Return to higher-impact activities with confidence
We tailor progression to your goals, whether that’s walking, Pilates, gym training, or running.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required.
Is pelvic floor assessment always internal?
No. Assessment options are discussed with you and guided by your comfort and symptoms.
I had my baby months or years ago — can physio still help?
Yes. Many women seek postnatal physio long after birth and see meaningful improvement.
Can you help after a caesarean birth?
Yes. Postnatal physio can assist with core recovery, scar-related discomfort, and return to exercise following caesarean section.