What to Expect from Your Physio When You’re Expecting

You’ve had your baby—congratulations! While your focus is now on caring for your newborn, it’s just as important to care for yourself. The first 12 weeks after birth are often called the fourth trimester—a time of healing, adjusting, and huge changes.

Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, your body has been through a lot. A women’s health physiotherapist can support your recovery, help you feel more comfortable, and guide you as you return to movement and daily life.

1. Pelvic Floor and Postnatal Check at 6 Weeks

At around 6 weeks postpartum, it’s a good idea to have a pelvic floor check with a physiotherapist. They’ll gently assess how your pelvic floor muscles are healing, and help with issues like leaking, heaviness, or discomfort. Even if you feel okay, this check can help catch small problems early and give you the best start for recovery. We can also help with advice for intimacy post-partum, and work with your GP to help you get back in the bedroom

2. Help With Abdominal Separation (Diastasis Recti)

It’s common for your abdominal muscles to separate during pregnancy. This is called diastasis recti. A physiotherapist can check for this and give you safe exercises to help your tummy muscles come back together. They’ll also teach you how to move and lift in ways that protect your core while it heals.

3. Support With Breastfeeding and Mastitis

Breastfeeding can be hard on your body. You might notice neck and shoulder pain from feeding positions, or even develop mastitis (a painful breast infection). Physiotherapists can help with massage, ultrasound treatment, and positioning tips to ease discomfort and support healing.

4. Better Posture for Feeding, Sleeping, and Carrying Baby

You’re probably spending hours feeding, rocking, and holding your baby. This can lead to back, shoulder, or wrist pain. A physiotherapist can show you small changes to improve your posture while feeding or sleeping, and give tips to protect your body during daily tasks.

5. Returning to Exercise Safely

Feeling ready to move again? Great! But your body needs time and support to return to exercise safely. A physiotherapist can guide you through gentle rehab exercises that build strength without overloading your pelvic floor or core. This way, you can return to walking, running, or workouts with confidence—when your body is ready.

The fourth trimester is a time of healing—not pressure. Physiotherapy can help you recover, reduce pain, and feel stronger in your new role as a mum. Whether it’s pelvic floor support, posture tips, or breastfeeding help, you don’t have to go through it alone. Call us on 07 4053 6222 or book online.