Most people start pelvic floor physiotherapy around six weeks after giving birth, once their doctor or midwife has cleared them at their postpartum check. That applies to both vaginal and C-section births. And it’s never too late: a pelvic floor physio can help months or years after your baby arrives.
What you can do before six weeks
In the first weeks, gentle is the goal. Rest, relaxed breathing, and short, easy pelvic floor and deep core connection are usually fine, as long as they don’t cause pain. If you had a tear or a C-section, follow your care provider’s advice.
Signs to book sooner
- leaking when you cough, sneeze, laugh, lift or run
- heaviness, pressure or a bulging feeling in the vagina (possible prolapse)
- pain with sex, or with using a tampon
- a gap or doming along the middle of your tummy (ab separation)
- pelvic, tailbone, hip or back pain that isn’t settling
- a C-section or perineal scar that feels tight, numb or sore
These are common after birth, but they aren’t something you have to live with.
What a postpartum assessment includes
Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will talk through your pregnancy and birth, check your posture, breathing and abdominal wall, and, with your consent, may offer an internal assessment of the pelvic floor muscles. You’ll leave with a plan to rebuild strength safely and return to exercise, running or lifting your baby with confidence. You’re welcome to bring your baby.
Learn more about prenatal and postpartum physiotherapy at our Leaside, Toronto clinic. No referral needed.