Prenatal Care

Your body is doing something extraordinary! Pregnancy is a special time but can come with aches and pains, changes in activity levels and sometimes unwanted pelvic floor symptoms. 

Prenatal physiotherapy is about supporting you through these changes with care, expertise, and evidence-based guidance - so you can feel more comfortable, more prepared, and more connected to your body as you grow your baby! 

Each pregnancy journey is unique which is why your care is always personalised and tailored specifically to your needs.

Common conditions I treat during pregnancy 

  • Pelvic girdle pain / pubic bone pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Tailbone pain
  • Hip pain
  • Rib pain
  • Round ligament pain
  • Urinary incontinence
  • Prolapse symptoms (vaginal heaviness or dragging)
  • Abdominal (diastasis) concerns 
  • Chronic constipation

If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy can help with your symptoms, please reach out - early support can make a significant difference

When should I see a prenatal physio?

You can come to physiotherapy at any stage of your pregnancy. You may benefit from regular sessions if you are experiencing pain or pelvic floor symptoms, or would simply like closer guidance throughout your pregnancy. If you have a healthy pregnancy with no specific concerns, I generally recommend three key sessions:

  • 13 Weeks

    Learn how to connect to your core and pelvic floor muscles and discuss an exercise routine tailored for you and your pregnancy

  • 22 Weeks

    Prevent or address any emerging aches, pains or pelvic floor symptoms as your body continues to adapt

  • 34 weeks

    Prepare for birth and discuss early postpartum care and recovery planning

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Birth preparation

Birth can be unpredictable but by understanding the normal birth process and improving your awareness of different birth interventions you can reduce anxiety, enable informed decision-making and enhance communication with healthcare providers which can contribute to a positive and empowering birth experience.

In our birth preparation sessions, we may cover:

  • Pelvic floor relaxation and breathing strategies
  • Perineal massage
  • Practising effective pushing techniques
  • Hip and pelvic mobility exercises
  • Optimal positioning for labour
  • Planning early postnatal recovery

Frequently asked questions

Is an internal exam required?

No. An internal pelvic floor assessment is always optional and only performed with your full consent. An external assessment and education can still provide valuable guidance. 

Can I work my core during pregnancy?

Yes - and you should! There is good evidence that abdominal muscle strength can reduce back and pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy and reduce diastasis postpartum. The key is learning how to work your core effectively as your body changes.

Is leaking normal?

Leaking urine in pregnancy is common but not normal and definitely not something you should accept. There’s lots that physiotherapy can do to improve and resolve it so please reach out!

What is a prenatal assessment?

A Prenatal assessment, also know as a 'Mummy MOT' is a one-off, comprehensive assessment of your pelvic floor, abdominal muscles and movement patterns during pregnancy. It is designed to identify any areas that may need support and to provide you with a clear, personalised plan to optimise your comfort, confidence, and preparation for birth. The session can include hands-on treatment for pregnancy-related aches and pains, guidance on pelvic floor and core function, and tailored rehabilitation exercises.Following your appointment, you will receive a written report outlining your assessment findings along with a personalised plan to support you throughout the remainder of your pregnancy.