Post-Pregnancy Physiotherapy

A post-pregnancy MOT is available from six weeks after birth and checks how your body is recovering, including pelvic floor strength, abdominal separation and symptoms such as incontinence. It’s especially useful if you’re planning to return to exercise and want reassurance about what your body is ready for.

If you have a specific concern, such as a tear, C-section scar or prolapse, a women’s health initial assessment is the better place to start, as this allows us to focus more closely on that issue.

A Post-Pregnancy MOT is a broad postnatal check-up, designed to give you a clear picture of how your body is recovering after pregnancy and birth. If it identifies something that needs more focused support, your physiotherapist may recommend ongoing women’s health treatment.

Women’s pelvic health physiotherapy is broader and can support concerns at any stage of life, not just after pregnancy. It offers more detailed assessment and treatment for issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, pelvic floor dysfunction, C-section recovery or ongoing weakness.

Your first physiotherapy appointment usually lasts up to 45 minutes. During that time, your physiotherapist will assess your symptoms, movement, and relevant medical history; explain their diagnosis; talk you through your treatment options; and agree a clear plan with you. If it’s safe and appropriate, treatment can also begin in that first session.

Initial assessments at Nordic Balance last up to 45 minutes, giving your physiotherapist time to assess, diagnose and agree on a treatment plan with you. Follow-up appointments usually last 30 or 45 minutes, depending on what your therapist has recommended.

It’s optional, but it is recommended. Regardless of whether you had a vaginal or C-section delivery, postnatal physiotherapy can help your body recover faster and more comfortably. Many women experience pelvic pain, back pain, abdominal weakness, or discomfort sitting and walking in the first few weeks postpartum. A physio can assess these issues early and help you return to daily activities with confidence.

Absolutely. A women’s health physiotherapist can support C-section recovery by helping reduce swelling, ease scar tissue adhesions, and improve movement around your abdomen and pelvis. Gentle hands-on therapy and exercises can also prevent long-term tightness or weakness.

Yes, it’s common to feel sore or uncomfortable even after a smooth vaginal delivery. Physiotherapy can help you manage bruising, stitches, pelvic floor weakness, or pain during walking, sitting or sex. These symptoms are treatable, and early intervention often means faster recovery.

Common issues in the early postpartum period include pelvic girdle pain, lower back pain, neck or shoulder strain, and difficulty standing, walking or climbing stairs. These are often caused by muscle imbalances or abdominal separation (diastasis recti), both of which respond well to structured physiotherapy.

We recommend starting from 6 weeks after birth, once you’ve had your postnatal check-up. However, if you’re in significant discomfort, you can begin sooner under guidance. An early assessment helps address pain or instability before it becomes harder to manage.

Yes, your physio will create a tailored recovery plan including gentle postnatal exercises, core activation, and guidance on posture and lifting. These are designed to work around your daily life and help you feel stronger, faster.