Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy During and After Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a transformative experience, but it can come with physical discomforts that many expectant parents believe are just “part of the process.” The truth is: pelvic floor physiotherapy can reduce or even prevent many of these challenges. From back pain and pelvic pressure to postpartum core weakness, working with a pelvic floor physiotherapist before and after birth can make a measurable difference in comfort and recovery.
In this blog, we’ll explore a real case of a 30-year-old pregnant woman who accessed pelvic floor physiotherapy as part of her prenatal and postpartum care—and had an empowering, pain-free journey as a result.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor in Pregnancy
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. During pregnancy, hormonal shifts and physical changes (like the growing uterus and shifting posture) increase the demands on the pelvic floor and core.
Without support, these changes may lead to:
- Pelvic floor weakness
- Back and hip pain
- Incontinence
- Diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles)
- Pelvic organ prolapse
Pelvic floor physiotherapy during pregnancy aims to strengthen weak muscles, release tension where needed, and prepare the body for delivery and recovery.
Case Study: A 30-Year-Old Seeking Pain-Free Pregnancy and Smooth Recovery
At 30, this patient came to pelvic floor physiotherapy early in her pregnancy. She was proactive, seeking to minimize discomfort and ensure a healthy postpartum recovery.
Assessment findings included:
- Mild pelvic floor weakness
- Tightness in the lower back and hips
- Slight core instability
While no major dysfunction was present, her body was showing early signs of strain from postural shifts and hormonal changes.
Prenatal Physiotherapy Plan
Her prenatal treatment focused on:
- Breathwork: Teaching diaphragmatic breathing to improve pelvic floor coordination.
- Pelvic mobility exercises: Gentle movements to reduce tension in the hips and low back.
- Core activation: Safe exercises to engage deep abdominal muscles and prevent diastasis recti.
These exercises also supported better posture and alignment, reducing strain on the spine and pelvis.
She continued regular sessions throughout her pregnancy, making minor adjustments as her body changed and her baby grew.
Postpartum Recovery with Pelvic Floor Physio
After delivery, the patient returned for postpartum physiotherapy. Her goals: recover from birth, rebuild core strength, and return to fitness safely.
Her treatment focused on:
- Diastasis recti assessment and recovery
- Pelvic floor strengthening exercises
- Gradual reintroduction to physical activity
Importantly, her postpartum recovery was smooth, symptom-free, and empowering. She regained strength and function without complications, and reported feeling supported and informed every step of the way.
Why Prenatal and Postpartum Physio Matters
Many new parents are surprised to learn that discomforts like leaking urine, pelvic heaviness, and low back pain aren’t things they have to live with. They’re common, but not normal—and they’re treatable.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy:
- Prevents and addresses incontinence
- Supports core and pelvic floor recovery
- Reduces the risk of long-term pelvic organ prolapse
- Promotes a smoother return to exercise or work
It’s not just about “Kegels,” either. Every body is different—some need strengthening, others need relaxation. A skilled physiotherapist can tailor care to what your body actually needs.
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery are major transitions—and your body deserves support during both. Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a proactive, empowering approach to managing physical changes and preventing future dysfunction.
Whether you’re expecting your first baby or recovering from your third, you don’t have to do it alone. With early intervention and expert care, you can move through pregnancy and recovery with strength and confidence.
Book a prenatal or postpartum assessment today to start your journey to a stronger, healthier you.
