Pelvic Physical Therapy During Pregnancy and Postpartum: Your Top Questions Answered
- Fundamental Physical Therapy
- Oct 29
- 5 min read
If you’re pregnant or postpartum and considering pelvic physical therapy, you probably have questions — and that’s completely normal! Whether you’re navigating back pain, bladder leaks, or trying to return to exercise, understanding what to expect can make the process feel much more comfortable and empowering.
At Fundamental Physical Therapy, my goal is to help you feel informed, supported, and confident as you begin your pelvic health journey. Below are some of the most common questions I hear from expectant and new moms.
How often will I need to come?
Frequency completely depends on your individual needs and goals. How often we work together during pregnancy is related to what (if any) symptoms you are having, and how far along you are. Most expectant moms do well with at least one visit learning about how to manage the changes in their body that pregnancy brings, a visit discussing labor preparations, and a visit planning for the first few weeks postpartum. Most postpartum patients are seen for 2-3 visits in that "fourth trimester" and then we adjust from there based on symptoms and goals. This allows for moms to incorporate new concepts and exercises gradually in smaller, more manageable chunks.
As your symptoms improve and your confidence grows, sessions may be spaced out to every other week or monthly until you’re ready to maintain your progress independently.
Every treatment plan is personalized — your therapist will adjust frequency based on your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. The goal is always to help you feel strong and self-sufficient, not dependent on therapy long-term.
Will there be a pelvic exam?
This is always a decision we make together. During a well-established, low risk pregnancy, a pelvic exam is an option to help identify challenges with the pelvic floor muscles that may impact pain, bowel or bladder issues or delivery. For postpartum moms, once you have been cleared by your physician (typically at the 6 week follow up) then we can consider an internal pelvic exam. If your symptoms involve pain, weakness, or coordination issues in the pelvic region, a pelvic muscle examination is often recommended. This exam helps assess muscle tone, strength, and coordination — providing key information for a personalized treatment plan that promotes full recovery.
However, you are always in control of your care. You can defer or decline any part of the examination or treatment at any time. And we have a variety of alternative options to help assess and observe the pelvic floor function without including an internal assessment.
Your comfort, privacy, and consent are my top priorities. The exam, when performed, is gentle, explained thoroughly, and done with sensitivity and respect every step of the way.
If I didn’t have a vaginal delivery, why should I worry about my pelvic floor?
It’s a common misconception that only women who deliver vaginally experience pelvic floor issues. Even after a C-section, your pelvic floor has been under months of increased load and pressure during pregnancy — supporting your growing baby, shifting organs, and changing posture.
In addition, abdominal surgery itself (such as a Cesarean birth) is a major disruption to the abdominal wall which affects core muscle coordination and breathing patterns, and generates scar tissue, all of which can impact pelvic floor function.
Pelvic physical therapy after a C-section helps with:
Scar tissue mobility to reduce pulling, numbness, or discomfort
Restoring core and pelvic floor coordination for improved stability
Addressing back or hip pain related to movement changes post-surgery
Preventing long-term issues such as leakage, heaviness, or pelvic pain
Your pelvic floor and core work together as a team — supporting one means supporting the other.
I’m not having any pain or leakage postpartum — do I still need pelvic therapy?
That’s great news! But even if you’re not experiencing symptoms right now, a pelvic floor checkup can be a valuable part of postpartum recovery.
Pregnancy and delivery (of any type) place tremendous strain on your body. The hormones associated with pregnancy impact soft tissue throughout the body. Subtle changes in muscle strength and joint alignment can impact balance, posture, and pressure management. This can slowly and quietly lead to issues months or even years later — such as bladder leakage during exercise, pelvic heaviness, or core weakness.
A postpartum pelvic PT visit is an opportunity to:
Assess your pelvic floor and core function before symptoms arise
Screen for diastasis recti or core imbalances that could affect movement
Get guidance on safe return to exercise, lifting, or intimacy
Prevent long-term dysfunction through early awareness and education
Think of it like your six-week postpartum checkup — but for your muscles. It’s proactive, empowering care that helps you feel confident in your recovery and movement as you re-enter daily life and physical activity.
Can I bring my children?
I would love to meet your family! However, it’s preferable to attend your initial and follow-up sessions without your children if possible. This allows for open conversation about personal topics and gives you the quiet, focused time you deserve for comprehensive care.
That said, I completely understand that life as a mom can be unpredictable. If childcare becomes a challenge, please keep your appointment and come as planned — we’ll make it work. Infants who are content in their carriers are always welcome, and I’ll do my best to accommodate your needs with flexibility and understanding.
Why choose Fundamental Physical Therapy?
Choosing Fundamental Physical Therapy means choosing personalized, one-on-one care in a calm and supportive setting.
As a small, independent clinic, you’ll work directly with your therapist — no front desk barriers or rotating staff. Your questions will be answered by the person who knows your body, your goals, and your journey. Your sessions are always on-on-one with flexible scheduling that meets your needs.
You’ll also have direct access to your therapist via email, text, or phone for any questions or concerns that arise between visits. I’m here to support you throughout your pelvic health journey — not just during appointments.
Many patients return for “tune-up” visits as their lives evolve — from postpartum recovery to perimenopause and beyond. My goal is to build lasting relationships that empower women through every season of life.
At Fundamental Physical Therapy, you’re not just a patient — you’re a partner in your healing. I love what I do, and I’m passionate about helping you get back to doing what you love — comfortably, confidently, and without pain.
You’re Not Alone on This Journey
Pregnancy and postpartum recovery can bring both joy and uncertainty, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Pelvic physical therapy provides tools, education, and compassionate care to help you heal, strengthen, and reconnect with your body.
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