Postpartum support

Pregnancy, birth and motherhood place significant demands on your body. Recovery looks different for every woman, and it can be difficult to know what’s normal, what might improve with time, and when to seek support.

Whether you’re experiencing new or uncomfortable symptoms, wanting to return to exercise, or simply looking for reassurance about your recovery, a postpartum physiotherapy assessment can help you better understand your body and what it needs.​ ​Your pelvic floor is one part of a much bigger picture. Our physiotherapists take a whole-body approach to postpartum recovery, looking at how your pelvic floor, abdominal wall, strength, movement and musculoskeletal system are working together.

Depending on your individual needs, your assessment may include:​

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• Pelvic floor assessment using real-time ultrasound, transperineal ultrasound and/or internal assessment where appropriate

• Abdominal wall assessment, including abdominal muscle function and separation

• Whole-body musculoskeletal assessment to identify areas of weakness, overload, pain or restricted movement

• Discussion of your goals, whether that’s feeling more comfortable day to day, returning to running or the gym, or simply feeling more confident in your body again

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How can postpartum physiotherapy help?

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Our experienced physiotherapists commonly support women with: ​

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• Bladder or bowel incontinence

• Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms

• Perineal tears and birth recovery

• Pelvic pain

• Painful sex

• Abdominal muscle separation

• Persistent pelvic girdle, back or hip pain

• Mastitis and blocked ducts

• Wrist, thumb and hand pain associated with caring for a baby

• Returning safely and confidently to exercise

When should I have a postpartum assessment?

Around 6 weeks after birth can be a helpful time for a comprehensive postpartum assessment, but there is no single “right” time.You might come in at 6 weeks, 6 months or even 6 years after having your baby. Whether you have specific symptoms or simply want guidance and reassurance about your recovery and return to exercise, it’s never too late to better understand and support your postpartum body.