Pregnancy and Postpartum

Can I see a pelvic floor PT during pregnancy and what can they treat?

The answer is yes! We often see women for incontinence management and pain. We also can help with preparation for labor and delivery and anticipated postpartum challenges.

How soon can I see a pelvic floor PT postpartum?

Typically we see women 6 weeks postpartum; however, sometimes there are unique circumstances where your OB/GYN will want you to come in sooner.

Common pregnancy and postpartum conditions and how we treat them…

• C-section scars, perineal tear scarring and episiotomy scars- These can cause a variety of issues in some women in terms of pain, prolapse, pelvic floor and core weakness, etc. We can do scar tissue mobilization and stretching and teach you how to properly do these things on yourself or show your partner how to do them for you!
• Diastasis recti aka “ab separation”- While 100% of women who go full term with pregnancy will develop this, not everyone’s diastasis recti heals. This is where pelvic floor PT comes in. We work on rebuilding core and pelvic floor strength, managing intra-abdominal pressure, proper breathing, and incorporating these things into functional tasks to help your diastasis recti heal.
• Rib flare- This is when the bottom ribs protrude. During pregnancy, the abdominal cavity adapts to accommodate the space the baby needs while developing. Sometimes, this rib flare remains present postpartum. We work on rib mobility, core strength, and correct breathing.
• Pain- Refer to the section on pelvic pain. We also have ortho specialist PTs who can treat any other pains you are having. We offer a collaborative team approach at our clinic.
• Incontinence- Refer to sections on incontinence
• Wanting to safely return to exercise but not knowing how- We can guide you on appropriate exercise taking into account hormonal changes, prolapse, diastasis recti, pain, and more.

Related Articles