Antinatal Physiotherapy Newcastle | Complete Pelvic Floor Recovery

Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, yet many women experience physical challenges as their body adapts to support a growing baby. Antenatal physiotherapy helps manage discomfort, maintain pelvic floor strength, and prepare safely for childbirth and recovery.

Pelvic floor and musculoskeletal issues during pregnancy may include:

Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, lifting, laughing or exercising
Difficulty controlling wind or sudden urgency to pass urine or bowel motions
Back, hip, pelvic girdle or sacroiliac joint pain
Sensation of heaviness or bulging in the vagina, indicating potential pelvic organ support issues
Difficulty with posture and movement as the pregnancy progresses

Myth: You should avoid pelvic floor exercises during pregnancy.
Fact: Evidence shows pelvic floor exercises are safe and help prevent bladder and bowel problems (Boyle et al., 2012).

Approximately 32–64% of pregnant women experience some form of urinary incontinence (Buckley & Lapitan, 2010), with stress incontinence increasing significantly during pregnancy. Proper guidance can minimise these issues and aid recovery after delivery.

Management of pelvic floor and pregnancy-related conditions includes:

Detailed assessment of your health, medical history, exercise routine and daily activities
Physical evaluation of pelvic floor muscle strength and functional movement
Safe prescription of pelvic floor exercises and strategies to prevent strain
Guidance on posture, lifting and safe exercise during pregnancy
Treatment for back, hip and pelvic pain to maintain comfort and mobility
Education on preparing the pelvic floor and core for birth and postpartum recovery

Outcomes from treatment may include:

Improved pelvic floor strength and control
Reduced bladder and bowel symptoms
Better posture and reduced pain in the back and pelvis
Safe, tailored exercise plans for each stage of pregnancy
Confidence and support in preparing for childbirth and recovery