After giving birth, it is common for new mothers to focus on the care of their newborns and overlook their own physical health. However, it is essential for women to prioritize their own postpartum care and seek professional help if necessary. One important aspect of postpartum care is seeing a women’s health physio or pelvic floor physio.
![](https://dxphysiotherapy.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AdobeStock_348325453-1-1024x650-1.jpg)
Close up of a young woman holding a balloon to explain the diaphragm zones, core and pelvic floor. Pelvic floor exercises explained
This blog will explain why and when women should see a women’s health physio or pelvic floor physio after giving birth.
Here are four main reasons why:
1.To address pelvic floor dysfunction:
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause the pelvic floor muscles to weaken or sustain injuries, leading to issues such as urinary incontinence, fecal incontinence, and prolapse. A women’s health physio can provide targeted exercises and strategies to help women regain control and strength in these muscles.
2.To address pain or discomfort during intercourse:
After childbirth, some women may experience pain or discomfort during intercourse. This can be due to physical trauma, hormonal changes, or pelvic floor dysfunction. A pelvic floor physio can help identify the root cause of the issue and provide strategies to alleviate discomfort and improve intimacy.
3.To address abdominal separation (diastasis recti):
Abdominal separation is a common condition that occurs during pregnancy when the abdominal muscles separate to accommodate the growing fetus. However, if not addressed properly, it can lead to ongoing pain, weakness, and other issues. A women’s health physio can provide exercises and strategies to help repair the abdominal muscles and restore core strength.
4.Posture and Alignment Issues:
Pregnancy can cause changes to your posture and alignment that can lead to back pain or other issues. A women’s health physio can help you to identify any postural or alignment issues and work with you to correct them. They can also provide exercises to help you to strengthen the muscles that support good posture.
![](https://dxphysiotherapy.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/AdobeStock_516452482-2-1024x681-1.jpg)
Postpartum abdominal separation assessment from a women’s health physio.
When should I see a pelvic floor physio?
The best time to see a pelvic floor physio or women’s health physio after giving birth is usually around six weeks postpartum. However, women can benefit from seeing a physio at any point in their postpartum journey, even years later.
After childbirth, it’s important for women to prioritize their physical and mental recovery. At DX PHYSIO, we understand that postpartum recovery is a holistic process. That’s why our women’s health physios in Cremorne provide targeted treatment for pelvic floor dysfunction, pain during intercourse, abdominal separation, and more, all while promoting overall wellness and postpartum recovery.