Postnatal Physiotherapy
Pregnancy and labour itself can have significant and often lasting impact on a woman’s body. Instability in the pelvic and abdominal muscles is common, affecting around 50% of women post pregnancy. Over 30% will have diastasis recti (also known as the tummy gap).
These issues can give rise to a number of Pelvic Health issues including constipation, pelvic or back pain, incontinence and pain during sex. Fortunately, whilst Pelvic Health issues are common both during and after pregnancy, the majority are preventable and/or treatable with Postnatal Physiotherapy.
Why have a Postnatal Assessment?
Even if you’re not experiencing any significant discomfort or other symptoms following your pregnancy, we would always recommend having a Postnatal Assessment. It’s a full screening and assessment to pick up any postnatal complications and issues you may have, including those that are not immediately obvious.
We recommend booking an initial Postnatal Physiotherapy Assessment from 6 weeks after labour and treatment can be started straight away, so that any issues do not become chronic. As a result, you’re less likely to require extended Physiotherapy treatment, and are also less likely to need treatment later in life as pelvic floor issues are identified sooner and dealt with immediately.
Ongoing support
Ten’s specialist Women’s Health Physiotherapists can diagnose and treat any conditions or pain you may experience postpartum. And we can provide advice or guidance on any symptoms, issues or concerns.
Common Reasons you would benefit from Postnatal Physiotherapy:
- to identify any areas of weakness, or disfunction post childbirth that could cause pain or injury going forward
- advice and treatment for any pain discomfort you are feeling post-pregnancy
- DRAM (diastasis recti abdominal muscle) check
- care and advice following a C-Section or tear, or if you have haemorrhoids
- support and treatment for urinal and/or faecal incontinence
- advice and support to help you return to activity and exercise safely post pregnancy – from pelvic floor training to returning to your preferred workouts, from running to gym sessions – with guidance on managing your progress
- we can create and deliver a bespoke post natal exercise programme for you, designed specifically around you and your needs
- relief of lumbar and/or pelvic pain
- guidance on safe movement and posture to avoid injury or discomfort when lifting, carrying or feeding your baby
- breast care
If you have questions or would like to talk in confidence to one of our Women’s Health Physiotherapists, please contact us.
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Chartered & Regulated
All of our physiotherapists are Chartered, which means they are governed by the
Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and adhere to professional standards, including
the CSP’s Rules of Professional Conduct. Additionally, all physiotherapists are
registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, an independent UK-wide health regulator.
FAQ
About Postnatal Physiotherapy
Still have questions? Read our full FAQs or contact our team, and we'll be happy to assist
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When should I start postnatal physiotherapy?
Postnatal physiotherapy can usually begin from 6 weeks after birth, allowing time for vaginal tissue or a caesarean scar to start healing. At this stage, it is safe to fully assess the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. However, if you are experiencing pain after childbirth and are comfortable attending a clinic, physiotherapy may begin earlier. Your physiotherapist will advise you on when it is safe to start treatment based on your individual needs.
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What happens in a postnatal physiotherapy session?
Your first postnatal physiotherapy session includes a detailed assessment of your symptoms and recovery. This begins with questions about bladder, bowel, pelvic and abdominal function.
Your physiotherapist will then assess posture, movement and muscle strength.
This may include checking:
- Pelvic floor strength and endurance
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Caesarean scar tissue (if applicable)
- Pelvic alignment and control
An internal examination may be recommended, this is optional and only carried out with your consent, you can also request a chaperone.
Your session will include a personalised treatment plan and exercises to support recovery and return to activity. Many clients use postnatal physiotherapy to return to exercise, including running and strength training.
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Who can benefit from postnatal physiotherapy?
All women can benefit from postnatal physiotherapy. The World Health Organisation recommends access to postnatal care for every woman after childbirth.
Pregnancy and birth place significant strain on the body, physiotherapy helps support recovery, function and long-term health. It is particularly helpful if you are experiencing symptoms or returning to exercise.
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What conditions can postnatal physiotherapy help with?
Postnatal physiotherapy can support a wide range of conditions.
These include:
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Urinary or faecal incontinence
- Urgency and frequency of urination
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Postnatal pelvic or back pain
- Pain during sex
- Return to sport and exercise
- Wrist and thumb pain (De Quervain’s tenosynovitis)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and recovery stage.
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Is postnatal physiotherapy safe after a caesarean section?
Yes, postnatal physiotherapy is safe after a caesarean section. You can begin treatment as soon as you feel comfortable.
A full assessment of the pelvic floor, abdominal muscles and scar tissue is usually recommended from around 6 weeks postnatal. If you are in pain, physiotherapy can begin earlier. Your physiotherapist will adapt treatment based on your recovery.
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How many postnatal physiotherapy sessions will I need?
Most postnatal conditions improve within 4 to 6 sessions. Some people may need fewer sessions. Others may require longer-term support depending on symptom severity and recovery goals. Your physiotherapist will review progress regularly and adjust your treatment plan as needed.