Postnatal Recovery: More Than Just Rest

The postnatal period requires careful attention to physical recovery. Childbirth — whether vaginal or caesarean — causes significant stress to the body: pelvic floor trauma, abdominal wall changes (diastasis recti), hormonal changes, and postural demands of infant care. Yet many new mothers receive little guidance beyond basic advice to 'rest and do pelvic floor exercises'. Structured postnatal physiotherapy makes a significant difference to recovery speed and quality.

Conditions Treated Postnatally

Urinary Incontinence: Affects 1 in 3 women after childbirth. Leaking on coughing, sneezing, or exercise is common but not normal and is very treatable. Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Heaviness, dragging sensation, or bulge in the vagina. Conservative management with pelvic floor rehabilitation is effective for mild-moderate prolapse. Diastasis Recti: Separation of the rectus abdominis muscles. Affects 60–100% of women in the third trimester; most resolve, but significant separations require specific rehabilitation. C-Section Recovery: Scar mobility, core retraining, and return to exercise after caesarean. Pelvic Girdle Pain: Often persists postnatally if not addressed. Return to Exercise: Safe, criteria-based return to running and high-impact exercise.

Postnatal Physiotherapy Interventions

Pelvic Floor Assessment and Rehabilitation

A thorough pelvic floor assessment identifies specific deficits — weakness, overactivity, or coordination problems — and guides an individualised rehabilitation programme.

Diastasis Recti Treatment

Specific loading programme that progressively loads the linea alba (midline connective tissue) to facilitate healing and restore abdominal wall function.

Safe Return to Exercise

Evidence-based return-to-running guidelines (2019 Groom et al.) recommend a minimum of 3 months postpartum before returning to high-impact exercise, with specific criteria for readiness.