Postpartum Pelvic Floor Recovery: How Physiotherapy Can Help

Pregnancy and childbirth bring incredible changes to the body, particularly to the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor are a group of muscles that span the bottom of the pelvis, supporting the pelvic organs and assist with controlling bladder and bowel control, sexual function and core stability. These muscles form a sling-like structure and are essential for maintaining continence and pelvic organ support.

During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles undergo significant changes due to hormonal shifts, increased weight and pressure from the growing baby. These changes can help the body prepare for childbirth but can also lead to challenges like weakened muscles, incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse if not properly managed. Many women experience the above issues including pain, and discomfort postpartum. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers effective solutions for restoring pelvic floor strength and function after childbirth, promoting overall well-being and recovery. Here at Western House Consulting Rooms in Barnsley we have a specialist physiotherapy practising in pelvic health.

Changes in the Pelvic Floor During Pregnancy

1. Increased load and stretching due to the pelvic floor having to support the weight of the growing baby, uterus and amniotic fluid causing increased pressure, The muscles stretch to accommodate the weight of this.
2. Hormonal changes cause ligaments and muscles to loosen, increasing flexibility for childbirth but also making the pelvic floor more vulnerable to strain.
3. Increased pressure on the bladder can lead to stress incontinence (leaking urine when sneezing or laughing).
4. Hormonal changes can also slow digestion, leading to constipation which may strain the pelvic floor.
5. The growing belly shifts the centre of gravity, altering posture and putting more demands on the pelvic floor and lower back.
6. As birth nears, the pelvic floor muscles become more elastic to allow the baby to pass through the birth canal. If these muscles are too tight or weak, it may lead to complications during delivery.

Understanding Postpartum Pelvic Floor Changes

During pregnancy, hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. Vaginal delivery may further stretch or injure these muscles, leading to difficulties in bladder and bowel control, as well as pelvic discomfort. A strong and functional pelvic floor is essential for core stability, posture, and daily activities.

Common Postpartum Pelvic Floor Issues

Many new mothers in Barnsley experience one or more of the following concerns after childbirth:

• Urinary Incontinence – Leakage during coughing, sneezing, or physical activity due to weakened muscles.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse – A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis caused by weakened support structures.
• Pelvic Pain – Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region, often related to muscle tightness or scar tissue from childbirth.
• Painful Intercourse – Postpartum hormonal changes and muscle tension can contribute to discomfort during intimacy.
• Bowel Dysfunction – Constipation or faecal incontinence due to changes in pelvic floor muscle coordination.

How Physiotherapy Supports Postpartum Recovery

Our physiotherapist at Western House specialises in pelvic health and can assess and address postpartum concerns using targeted treatments. Some key physiotherapy approaches include:

Pelvic Floor Exercises

• Specific strengthening exercises to regain muscle tone and control.
• Relaxation Techniques – Learning how to properly relax the pelvic floor muscles is just as important as strengthening them.

Biofeedback Therapy

• Helps individuals learn to engage or relax the pelvic muscles effectively through guided feedback mechanisms.

Postural and Core Rehabilitation

• Addressing posture, core strength, and breathing patterns to enhance overall stability and reduce strain on the pelvic floor.

Who Can Benefit from Postpartum Physiotherapy?

Any woman who has given birth, whether vaginally or via C-section, can benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy in Barnsley. Seeking professional support can be particularly helpful for:

• Women experiencing persistent incontinence or prolapse symptoms
• Mothers recovering from perineal tearing or C-section surgery
• Individuals dealing with postpartum pelvic pain or discomfort
• Women seeking preventive care to strengthen their pelvic floor for future pregnancies

Prioritise Your Postpartum Recovery

Pelvic floor dysfunction after pregnancy is common but treatable. If you're experiencing symptoms, consulting a physiotherapist at Western House can be a crucial step toward healing and regaining confidence in your body. With a personalised treatment plan, you can restore strength, function, and comfort in your daily life.

At Western House Consulting Rooms, our specialised physiotherapist (Bethany) is dedicated to supporting postpartum recovery. No GP referral is required and we do not have waiting lists. All treatments are carried out in private and comfortable consulting rooms. We have a chaperone policy in place and can provide a chaperone if you require one during your visit.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better pelvic health!