Postpartum

There are many changes your body has made to grow and deliver your baby. What your body has done is truly incredible. However, we know that it can take time to recover and feel at home in your body.

There are many ways in which physiotherapists who specialise in women’s health can help guide you in this period.

This can be through:

• Management of DRAM (the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles). It is normal for these muscles to separate to accomodate for a growing baby. After delivery they begin to return to their starting position. Where they return to is largely based on genetics and collagen make up. There is also new evidence to show specific exercises and supportive garments can be helpful in the early postpartum period

• Management of perineal pain, persistent pelvic girdle pain and coccyx pain

• Management of new aches and pains of the back and neck. This can be due to spending long periods of time in breastfeeding postures and repeated lifting

• Assessment of the pelvic floor from the six to eight week mark. We can provide feedback about the perineum, and about the position of the pelvic organs and how the pelvic floor is functioning. We spend time going through what this means so you can understand how your pelvis is functioning after delivery

• Symptom management of any new pelvic floor symptoms that have arisen as a result of pregnancy or labour

• Planning for return to exercise. Each woman’s goals of the postpartum period are different. Some want to return to high impact exercise, others would like to feel comfortable running after their toddlers. We work with you to try and make your goals a reality