Frequently asked questions about women's health physiotherapy.
Booking into a new clinic can be daunting! In particular, women's health concerns can feel embarrassing or uncomfortable. Our primary goal is making sure that you know that we're here to help. Our women's health team is compassionate, consent based and trauma aware, helping you to address your issues while still feeling safe and comfortable.
We know that asking a lot of these questions in person can feel awkward which is why we've popped them here. If there's something that still hasn't been answered please don't hesitate to let us know (even if it feels a little awkward). We would love to talk to you about what's going on and the best way we can help. Call us during business hours on 07 3706 3407 or email us at [email protected] with questions or to request a call back.
You can also find our general physiotherapy FAQs (with information on pricing, referrals and more) via the button below.
We know that asking a lot of these questions in person can feel awkward which is why we've popped them here. If there's something that still hasn't been answered please don't hesitate to let us know (even if it feels a little awkward). We would love to talk to you about what's going on and the best way we can help. Call us during business hours on 07 3706 3407 or email us at [email protected] with questions or to request a call back.
You can also find our general physiotherapy FAQs (with information on pricing, referrals and more) via the button below.
WHAT CAN WOMEN'S HEALTH PHYSIOS HELP WITH?
What can women's health physiotherapists help with?
Women's health physiotherapists specialise in the assessment and treatment of conditions related to pelvic health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. They can help with a range of issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, prenatal and postnatal exercise, and preparation for childbirth. They also provide education and support to help women optimise their pelvic and overall health.
What conditions can women's health physiotherapists help with?
Women's health physiotherapists can help with a variety of conditions, including:
Women's health physiotherapists use a range of techniques to address these conditions, such as pelvic floor muscle training, manual therapy, education and lifestyle modifications, and biofeedback.
What conditions do women's health physiotherapists have to refer on to specialists?
Women's health physiotherapists are trained to recognise when a condition requires a referral to a medical specialist or other healthcare provider. The specific conditions that may require referral depend on the individual physiotherapist's scope of practice and the regulations in their jurisdiction. However, in general, women's health physiotherapists may refer their patients to a specialist if they suspect a serious underlying medical condition, such as cancer or a neurological disorder, that requires further investigation and treatment. They may also refer patients to a specialist if they are not making progress with physiotherapy alone or if the condition requires a more invasive or specialised intervention, such as surgery. Women's health physiotherapists work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care for their specific needs.
Women's health physiotherapists specialise in the assessment and treatment of conditions related to pelvic health, pregnancy, and postpartum care. They can help with a range of issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse, sexual dysfunction, prenatal and postnatal exercise, and preparation for childbirth. They also provide education and support to help women optimise their pelvic and overall health.
What conditions can women's health physiotherapists help with?
Women's health physiotherapists can help with a variety of conditions, including:
- Urinary incontinence and overactive bladder
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Pelvic pain and dyspareunia (painful sex)
- Diastasis recti (abdominal separation) and core weakness
- Pregnancy-related conditions, such as low back pain, sciatica, and carpal tunnel syndrome
- Postpartum recovery and return to exercise
- Bowel dysfunction, including fecal incontinence and constipation
- Sexual dysfunction and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction
- Pre- and post-gynecological surgery rehabilitation, such as hysterectomy or mastectomy.
Women's health physiotherapists use a range of techniques to address these conditions, such as pelvic floor muscle training, manual therapy, education and lifestyle modifications, and biofeedback.
What conditions do women's health physiotherapists have to refer on to specialists?
Women's health physiotherapists are trained to recognise when a condition requires a referral to a medical specialist or other healthcare provider. The specific conditions that may require referral depend on the individual physiotherapist's scope of practice and the regulations in their jurisdiction. However, in general, women's health physiotherapists may refer their patients to a specialist if they suspect a serious underlying medical condition, such as cancer or a neurological disorder, that requires further investigation and treatment. They may also refer patients to a specialist if they are not making progress with physiotherapy alone or if the condition requires a more invasive or specialised intervention, such as surgery. Women's health physiotherapists work collaboratively with other healthcare providers to ensure that their patients receive the best possible care for their specific needs.
WHAT HAPPENS IN A WOMEN'S HEALTH PHYSIOTHERAPY APPOINTMENT?
What happens in a women's health physiotherapy appointment?
In a women's health physiotherapy appointment, the physiotherapist will typically begin with a detailed history taking and physical assessment to understand the patient's symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and goals for treatment. The assessment may include a pelvic floor muscle examination, which can be done either internally or externally, depending on the patient's preference and comfort level.
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an individualised treatment plan that may include a range of strategies such as:
The treatment plan will be tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals, and may involve regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. The overall goal of women's health physiotherapy is to help patients optimise their pelvic and overall health, improve their quality of life, and prevent future problems.
What if I don't feel comfortable with an internal examination in a women's health physiotherapy appointment?
It is common for patients to feel apprehensive or uncomfortable about an internal pelvic examination in a women's health physiotherapy appointment. It is important to note that an internal examination is not always necessary or appropriate, and it is always the patient's choice whether or not to undergo this type of examination.
If a patient does not feel comfortable with an internal examination, the physiotherapist will respect their wishes and will explore alternative assessment and treatment strategies that do not involve an internal exam. For example, the physiotherapist may use external palpation, observation of movement patterns, and/or biofeedback to assess pelvic floor function and provide appropriate treatment recommendations. The physiotherapist will work collaboratively with the patient to find a comfortable and effective approach to managing their pelvic health concerns. It is important to communicate any concerns or preferences to the physiotherapist so they can adjust their approach accordingly.
Should I cancel my women's health physiotherapy appointment if I have my period or am still bleeding postpartum?
Your women's health physiotherapist is trained to work with individuals who are menstruating or experiencing postpartum bleeding, and can provide appropriate care and guidance.
During your appointment, your women's health physiotherapist may ask about your menstrual cycle or postpartum bleeding, as this can affect your pelvic floor function and overall health. They may also adjust their treatment plan based on your individual needs and any symptoms or concerns you may have.
However, if you are uncomfortable with an internal examination during your appointment due to your menstrual cycle or postpartum bleeding, you can discuss alternative options with your women's health physiotherapist. They may be able to modify the treatment plan to accommodate your preferences and provide other forms of therapy or exercises that do not require an internal examination.
Can I bring my baby or children to the appointment?
Absolutely! Here at Articulate we pride ourselves on being a family friendly clinic. If you are worried about bringing your baby or child to a women's health appointment please give out friendly admin team a call on 07 3706 3407 to book so we can ensure an admin team member is around to help if needed during your appointment. We love baby snuggles here!
In a women's health physiotherapy appointment, the physiotherapist will typically begin with a detailed history taking and physical assessment to understand the patient's symptoms, medical history, lifestyle, and goals for treatment. The assessment may include a pelvic floor muscle examination, which can be done either internally or externally, depending on the patient's preference and comfort level.
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an individualised treatment plan that may include a range of strategies such as:
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises and/or retraining
- Manual therapy techniques to release tension in the pelvic region
- Bladder and bowel management strategies
- Education about healthy lifestyle practices that support pelvic health
- Behavioral strategies to address pain, stress, or other psychological factors
- Biofeedback to help patients understand and learn to control their pelvic floor muscles
- Specific exercises or stretches to address core or postural imbalances
- Preparation for childbirth and postnatal recovery care.
The treatment plan will be tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals, and may involve regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. The overall goal of women's health physiotherapy is to help patients optimise their pelvic and overall health, improve their quality of life, and prevent future problems.
What if I don't feel comfortable with an internal examination in a women's health physiotherapy appointment?
It is common for patients to feel apprehensive or uncomfortable about an internal pelvic examination in a women's health physiotherapy appointment. It is important to note that an internal examination is not always necessary or appropriate, and it is always the patient's choice whether or not to undergo this type of examination.
If a patient does not feel comfortable with an internal examination, the physiotherapist will respect their wishes and will explore alternative assessment and treatment strategies that do not involve an internal exam. For example, the physiotherapist may use external palpation, observation of movement patterns, and/or biofeedback to assess pelvic floor function and provide appropriate treatment recommendations. The physiotherapist will work collaboratively with the patient to find a comfortable and effective approach to managing their pelvic health concerns. It is important to communicate any concerns or preferences to the physiotherapist so they can adjust their approach accordingly.
Should I cancel my women's health physiotherapy appointment if I have my period or am still bleeding postpartum?
Your women's health physiotherapist is trained to work with individuals who are menstruating or experiencing postpartum bleeding, and can provide appropriate care and guidance.
During your appointment, your women's health physiotherapist may ask about your menstrual cycle or postpartum bleeding, as this can affect your pelvic floor function and overall health. They may also adjust their treatment plan based on your individual needs and any symptoms or concerns you may have.
However, if you are uncomfortable with an internal examination during your appointment due to your menstrual cycle or postpartum bleeding, you can discuss alternative options with your women's health physiotherapist. They may be able to modify the treatment plan to accommodate your preferences and provide other forms of therapy or exercises that do not require an internal examination.
Can I bring my baby or children to the appointment?
Absolutely! Here at Articulate we pride ourselves on being a family friendly clinic. If you are worried about bringing your baby or child to a women's health appointment please give out friendly admin team a call on 07 3706 3407 to book so we can ensure an admin team member is around to help if needed during your appointment. We love baby snuggles here!
POSTPARTUM EXERCISE
When can I start exercising post-partum?
In general, it is recommended to wait until after your six-week postpartum check-up with your healthcare provider before starting any formal exercise program. However, there are some gentle exercises that are recommended before your six-week check-up to help promote healing and recovery.
Here at Articulate we follow the latest postnatal rehabilitation guildelines. “Returning to running postnatal – guidelines for medical, health and fitness professionals managing this population” (Goom, Donnelly & Brockwell 2019). You can read more about the guidelines here. We've also included a great image below with a week by week guide. We recommend booking in with our of our women's health team while pregnant in order to form your recovery plan.
Walking is generally considered a safe and low-impact exercise that you may be able to do before your six-week postpartum check-up. If you had a vaginal delivery, you may be able to start walking short distances within a few days of giving birth, as long as you feel comfortable and are not experiencing any excessive pain, discomfort, or bleeding. If you had a cesarean delivery, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting a bit longer before starting to walk, as the incision site will need more time to heal.
At home, deep breathing exercises, pelvic floor exercises, and gentle stretching are all wonderful ways to ease back into movement. Deep breathing can help start to engage your core, improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Pelvic floor exercises, (also known as Kegals), can help improve blood flow to the pelvic region, promote healing, and prevent issues such as incontinence. Gentle stretching can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation.
From week 2, gentle squats, bridges and lunges can be added to walking, pelvic floor exercises and breathing. Always stop if you are feeling any pain or discomfort, or if
It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your activity level over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is also important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If you have any concerns or questions about exercising before your six-week postpartum check-up, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or a women's health physiotherapist for guidance.
In general, it is recommended to wait until after your six-week postpartum check-up with your healthcare provider before starting any formal exercise program. However, there are some gentle exercises that are recommended before your six-week check-up to help promote healing and recovery.
Here at Articulate we follow the latest postnatal rehabilitation guildelines. “Returning to running postnatal – guidelines for medical, health and fitness professionals managing this population” (Goom, Donnelly & Brockwell 2019). You can read more about the guidelines here. We've also included a great image below with a week by week guide. We recommend booking in with our of our women's health team while pregnant in order to form your recovery plan.
Walking is generally considered a safe and low-impact exercise that you may be able to do before your six-week postpartum check-up. If you had a vaginal delivery, you may be able to start walking short distances within a few days of giving birth, as long as you feel comfortable and are not experiencing any excessive pain, discomfort, or bleeding. If you had a cesarean delivery, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting a bit longer before starting to walk, as the incision site will need more time to heal.
At home, deep breathing exercises, pelvic floor exercises, and gentle stretching are all wonderful ways to ease back into movement. Deep breathing can help start to engage your core, improve circulation, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Pelvic floor exercises, (also known as Kegals), can help improve blood flow to the pelvic region, promote healing, and prevent issues such as incontinence. Gentle stretching can help improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation.
From week 2, gentle squats, bridges and lunges can be added to walking, pelvic floor exercises and breathing. Always stop if you are feeling any pain or discomfort, or if
It is important to start slowly and gradually increase your activity level over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is also important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion. If you have any concerns or questions about exercising before your six-week postpartum check-up, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider or a women's health physiotherapist for guidance.
How far can I walk postpartum?
The distance you can walk postpartum will depend on a variety of factors, including your overall health, fitness level, any complications or medical conditions you may have, and your individual recovery time.
In general, it is recommended to start with short walks of 10-15 minutes and gradually increase the duration and distance over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, especially in the early postpartum period.
If you had a vaginal delivery, you may be able to start walking short distances within a few days of giving birth, as long as you feel comfortable and are not experiencing any excessive pain, discomfort, or bleeding. If you had a cesarean delivery, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting a bit longer before starting to walk, as the incision site will need more time to heal.
It is important to wear supportive shoes and stay hydrated, especially if you are breastfeeding. If you experience any pain, discomfort, or bleeding while walking, it is important to stop and rest, and to consult with your healthcare provider or a women's health physiotherapist for guidance.
How can I tell if I've overdone it post-partum?
It is common for women to want to resume physical activity and exercise after having a baby, but it is important to listen to your body and give yourself adequate time to recover. Overdoing exercise postpartum can lead to various symptoms and health issues, such as pain, incontinence, fatigue, or delay in healing.
Here are some signs that you may have overdone exercise postpartum:
It is important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise postpartum, while monitoring your body's response and adjusting your routine as needed. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be helpful to consult with a women's health physiotherapist.
Is Pilates beneficial for postpartum recovery?
Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and stability, which are all important for postpartum recovery.
Pilates exercises can help to strengthen the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles that may be weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. This can help to improve core stability, prevent or reduce issues such as incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse, and improve overall posture and body awareness.
In addition, Pilates exercises can help to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation, which can be helpful for reducing stress and promoting better sleep during the postpartum period.
However, it is important to start with gentle Pilates exercises and gradually increase the intensity and difficulty over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is also important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, especially in the early postpartum period.
The distance you can walk postpartum will depend on a variety of factors, including your overall health, fitness level, any complications or medical conditions you may have, and your individual recovery time.
In general, it is recommended to start with short walks of 10-15 minutes and gradually increase the duration and distance over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, especially in the early postpartum period.
If you had a vaginal delivery, you may be able to start walking short distances within a few days of giving birth, as long as you feel comfortable and are not experiencing any excessive pain, discomfort, or bleeding. If you had a cesarean delivery, your healthcare provider may recommend waiting a bit longer before starting to walk, as the incision site will need more time to heal.
It is important to wear supportive shoes and stay hydrated, especially if you are breastfeeding. If you experience any pain, discomfort, or bleeding while walking, it is important to stop and rest, and to consult with your healthcare provider or a women's health physiotherapist for guidance.
How can I tell if I've overdone it post-partum?
It is common for women to want to resume physical activity and exercise after having a baby, but it is important to listen to your body and give yourself adequate time to recover. Overdoing exercise postpartum can lead to various symptoms and health issues, such as pain, incontinence, fatigue, or delay in healing.
Here are some signs that you may have overdone exercise postpartum:
- Pain or discomfort: If you experience pain or discomfort in your pelvic region, lower back, or abdominal area during or after exercise, this may be a sign that you're doing too much too soon.
- Fatigue: It is common to feel tired and fatigued after having a baby, and overexertion can exacerbate this feeling. If you feel excessively tired after exercise, you may need to reduce the intensity or duration of your workouts.
- Incontinence: If you experience urinary or fecal leakage during exercise, this may be a sign that your pelvic floor muscles are not yet strong enough to handle the demands of the activity.
- Delay in healing: If you experience prolonged or delayed healing from childbirth-related injuries or wounds, this may indicate that you are not giving your body enough time to recover between workouts.
It is important to gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise postpartum, while monitoring your body's response and adjusting your routine as needed. If you experience any of these symptoms, it may be helpful to consult with a women's health physiotherapist.
Is Pilates beneficial for postpartum recovery?
Pilates focuses on core strength, flexibility, and stability, which are all important for postpartum recovery.
Pilates exercises can help to strengthen the deep abdominal and pelvic floor muscles that may be weakened during pregnancy and childbirth. This can help to improve core stability, prevent or reduce issues such as incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse, and improve overall posture and body awareness.
In addition, Pilates exercises can help to improve flexibility, reduce muscle tension, and promote relaxation, which can be helpful for reducing stress and promoting better sleep during the postpartum period.
However, it is important to start with gentle Pilates exercises and gradually increase the intensity and difficulty over time, as your body adjusts to the demands of caring for a newborn. It is also important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion, especially in the early postpartum period.
PREGNANCY PHYSIOTHERAPY & EXERCISE
How much exercise should I do while pregnant?
The amount of exercise you should do during pregnancy can depend on a number of factors, including your pre-pregnancy fitness level, overall health, and any specific risks or complications related to your pregnancy.
In general, it is recommended that pregnant women engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, spread out over several days. This can include activities such as brisk walking, swimming, stationary cycling, or low-impact aerobics. Strength training exercises can also be beneficial, especially for maintaining muscle tone and preparing for labor and delivery.
It's important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion or pushing yourself too hard. You may need to modify your exercise routine as your pregnancy progresses and your body changes. For example, as your belly grows, you may need to switch to lower-impact exercises or avoid certain positions.
It's also important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy. Your provider can help you determine what types of exercise are safe and appropriate for you, as well as any modifications you may need to make to your routine.
What exercise is safe in pregnancy?
Many types of exercise can be safe during pregnancy, but it's important to choose activities that are appropriate for your fitness level and stage of pregnancy. Some types of exercises that are generally considered safe for pregnant women include:
It's important to avoid certain activities that can increase the risk of falls, trauma, or excessive strain on the body, such as contact sports, high-impact activities, and exercises that require lying flat on the back after the first trimester.
It's also important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy. Your provider can help you determine what types of exercise are safe and appropriate for you, as well as any modifications you may need to make to your routine.
I don't have any pain or discomfort during pregnancy - should I still see a women's health physiotherapist?
Yes, even if you are not experiencing any problems during your pregnancy, it can be beneficial to see a women's health physiotherapist for preventive care and guidance.
Women's health physiotherapists can help you prepare your body for labor and delivery, as well as address any potential issues before they become more serious. They can provide guidance on exercise, posture, and other lifestyle factors that can help to promote a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications.
In addition, seeing a women's health physiotherapist during pregnancy can help you prepare for the postpartum period, as they can provide guidance on exercises and self-care techniques that can help to speed up recovery and reduce the risk of postpartum complications.
Even if you are not experiencing any specific issues or symptoms during pregnancy, a women's health physiotherapist can still provide valuable information and support to help you have a healthy and successful pregnancy. It is generally recommended to see a women's health physiotherapist at least once during pregnancy, and more frequently if you have specific concerns or risk factors
The amount of exercise you should do during pregnancy can depend on a number of factors, including your pre-pregnancy fitness level, overall health, and any specific risks or complications related to your pregnancy.
In general, it is recommended that pregnant women engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, spread out over several days. This can include activities such as brisk walking, swimming, stationary cycling, or low-impact aerobics. Strength training exercises can also be beneficial, especially for maintaining muscle tone and preparing for labor and delivery.
It's important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion or pushing yourself too hard. You may need to modify your exercise routine as your pregnancy progresses and your body changes. For example, as your belly grows, you may need to switch to lower-impact exercises or avoid certain positions.
It's also important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy. Your provider can help you determine what types of exercise are safe and appropriate for you, as well as any modifications you may need to make to your routine.
What exercise is safe in pregnancy?
Many types of exercise can be safe during pregnancy, but it's important to choose activities that are appropriate for your fitness level and stage of pregnancy. Some types of exercises that are generally considered safe for pregnant women include:
- Walking: This is a low-impact exercise that can be done throughout pregnancy.
- Swimming: This is a great low-impact exercise that can help to reduce swelling and pressure on the joints.
- Yoga: This can help to improve flexibility, balance, and relaxation. However, it's important to choose a prenatal yoga class that is designed specifically for pregnant women.
- Strength training: This can help to maintain muscle tone and prepare for labor and delivery. However, it's important to use lighter weights and avoid exercises that put too much strain on the abdominal muscles.
- Stationary cycling: This can be a low-impact way to improve cardiovascular fitness.
- Pilates: Pilates can help to improve posture, flexibility, and core strength, which can be especially helpful during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. However, it's important to choose a prenatal Pilates class that is designed specifically for pregnant women, as some exercises may need to be modified or avoided as the pregnancy progresses.
It's important to avoid certain activities that can increase the risk of falls, trauma, or excessive strain on the body, such as contact sports, high-impact activities, and exercises that require lying flat on the back after the first trimester.
It's also important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting or continuing an exercise routine during pregnancy. Your provider can help you determine what types of exercise are safe and appropriate for you, as well as any modifications you may need to make to your routine.
I don't have any pain or discomfort during pregnancy - should I still see a women's health physiotherapist?
Yes, even if you are not experiencing any problems during your pregnancy, it can be beneficial to see a women's health physiotherapist for preventive care and guidance.
Women's health physiotherapists can help you prepare your body for labor and delivery, as well as address any potential issues before they become more serious. They can provide guidance on exercise, posture, and other lifestyle factors that can help to promote a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of complications.
In addition, seeing a women's health physiotherapist during pregnancy can help you prepare for the postpartum period, as they can provide guidance on exercises and self-care techniques that can help to speed up recovery and reduce the risk of postpartum complications.
Even if you are not experiencing any specific issues or symptoms during pregnancy, a women's health physiotherapist can still provide valuable information and support to help you have a healthy and successful pregnancy. It is generally recommended to see a women's health physiotherapist at least once during pregnancy, and more frequently if you have specific concerns or risk factors
POSTPARTUM CHECK-UPS
When should I check in with a women's health physiotherapist postpartum?
It is generally recommended to check in with a women's health physiotherapist at about six weeks postpartum to assess and address any changes or issues related to the pelvic floor and core muscles. However, the timing may vary depending on the individual woman's situation and any specific concerns she may have.
If a woman had a complicated delivery, such as a forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, or experienced tearing or other trauma to the pelvic floor, she may benefit from an earlier assessment by a women's health physiotherapist. Similarly, if a woman is experiencing ongoing pain or discomfort, urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or other symptoms, she may benefit from an assessment at any time postpartum.
Some women may choose to see a women's health physiotherapist during pregnancy to prepare for labor and delivery and to learn strategies for postpartum recovery. This can also be a good time to address any pre-existing pelvic health issues or concerns.
In general, it is important for women to be proactive about their pelvic health and seek care from a women's health physiotherapist as needed to optimise their recovery and long-term health.
What happens in a women's health physiotherapy postnatal appointment?
In a women's health physiotherapy postnatal appointment, the physiotherapist will typically begin with a detailed history taking and physical assessment to understand the patient's symptoms, medical history, and any specific concerns or goals for treatment. The assessment may include an examination of the pelvic floor muscles, abdominals, and overall core strength and stability.
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include a range of strategies such as:
The treatment plan will be tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals, and may involve regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. The overall goal of women's health physiotherapy postnatal care is to help women regain strength and function in their pelvic floor and core muscles, and to prevent long-term issues such as incontinence, prolapse, or other complications related to pregnancy and childbirth.
I don't have any symptoms or concerns postpartum. Should I still see a women's health physiotherapist?
Yes, it can be beneficial to see a women's health physiotherapist even if you are not experiencing any specific symptoms or concerns postpartum.
Women's health physiotherapists can help to assess your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, as well as provide guidance on exercise, posture, and other lifestyle factors that can help to promote a healthy recovery after childbirth. They can also identify any potential issues that may not be apparent to you, such as weak or tight muscles, and provide appropriate treatment and guidance.
In addition, seeing a women's health physiotherapist postpartum can help you prevent future complications, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or sexual dysfunction. They can provide guidance on exercises and self-care techniques that can help to improve pelvic floor and abdominal muscle function, and reduce the risk of these and other postpartum issues.
Even if you do not have any specific concerns or symptoms, it is generally recommended to see a women's health physiotherapist at least once postpartum, and more frequently if you have had a difficult birth, multiple births, or other risk factors for postpartum complications.
It is generally recommended to check in with a women's health physiotherapist at about six weeks postpartum to assess and address any changes or issues related to the pelvic floor and core muscles. However, the timing may vary depending on the individual woman's situation and any specific concerns she may have.
If a woman had a complicated delivery, such as a forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery, or experienced tearing or other trauma to the pelvic floor, she may benefit from an earlier assessment by a women's health physiotherapist. Similarly, if a woman is experiencing ongoing pain or discomfort, urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or other symptoms, she may benefit from an assessment at any time postpartum.
Some women may choose to see a women's health physiotherapist during pregnancy to prepare for labor and delivery and to learn strategies for postpartum recovery. This can also be a good time to address any pre-existing pelvic health issues or concerns.
In general, it is important for women to be proactive about their pelvic health and seek care from a women's health physiotherapist as needed to optimise their recovery and long-term health.
What happens in a women's health physiotherapy postnatal appointment?
In a women's health physiotherapy postnatal appointment, the physiotherapist will typically begin with a detailed history taking and physical assessment to understand the patient's symptoms, medical history, and any specific concerns or goals for treatment. The assessment may include an examination of the pelvic floor muscles, abdominals, and overall core strength and stability.
Based on the assessment findings, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include a range of strategies such as:
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises and/or retraining
- Manual therapy techniques to release tension in the pelvic region
- Diaphragmatic breathing and relaxation techniques
- Core stability exercises to address abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti)
- Education about healthy postnatal recovery practices
- Guidance on resuming physical activity and exercise
- Preparation for return to work or other daily activities.
The treatment plan will be tailored to the patient's specific needs and goals, and may involve regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed. The overall goal of women's health physiotherapy postnatal care is to help women regain strength and function in their pelvic floor and core muscles, and to prevent long-term issues such as incontinence, prolapse, or other complications related to pregnancy and childbirth.
I don't have any symptoms or concerns postpartum. Should I still see a women's health physiotherapist?
Yes, it can be beneficial to see a women's health physiotherapist even if you are not experiencing any specific symptoms or concerns postpartum.
Women's health physiotherapists can help to assess your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, as well as provide guidance on exercise, posture, and other lifestyle factors that can help to promote a healthy recovery after childbirth. They can also identify any potential issues that may not be apparent to you, such as weak or tight muscles, and provide appropriate treatment and guidance.
In addition, seeing a women's health physiotherapist postpartum can help you prevent future complications, such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or sexual dysfunction. They can provide guidance on exercises and self-care techniques that can help to improve pelvic floor and abdominal muscle function, and reduce the risk of these and other postpartum issues.
Even if you do not have any specific concerns or symptoms, it is generally recommended to see a women's health physiotherapist at least once postpartum, and more frequently if you have had a difficult birth, multiple births, or other risk factors for postpartum complications.