Pregnancy and Postnatal Physiotherapy
Support your body through pregnancy—and recover with confidence after birth.
Pregnancy and childbirth place significant demands on the body.
Whether you’re dealing with pain during pregnancy or feel like your body hasn’t fully recovered after birth, physiotherapy can help you move better, feel stronger, and return to normal life with confidence.
At Handforth Physiotherapy & Rehab, we provide specialist care to support you at every stage.
What Are The Symptoms?
Pre and postnatal symptoms can vary, but commonly include:
- Pelvic girdle pain (PGP)
- Lower back or hip pain
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Weak core or pelvic floor
- Bladder leakage
- Pain during or after exercise
- A feeling of reduced strength or control
Symptoms can develop during pregnancy or persist long after birth.
What Are The Symptoms?
Pre and postnatal symptoms can vary, but commonly include:
- Pelvic girdle pain (PGP)
- Lower back or hip pain
- Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
- Weak core or pelvic floor
- Bladder leakage
- Pain during or after exercise
- A feeling of reduced strength or control
Symptoms can develop during pregnancy or persist long after birth.
What Causes These Issues?
Common contributing factors include:
- Hormonal changes affecting joint stability
- Increased load and postural changes during pregnancy
- Stretching of abdominal muscles
- Pelvic floor weakness or dysfunction
- Vaginal or caesarean delivery
- Lack of structured rehabilitation after birth
These changes are normal—but ongoing symptoms don’t have to be.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy focuses on restoring strength, control, and confidence.
Treatment may include:
- Pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Core and abdominal retraining
- Treatment for back, hip or pelvic pain
- Movement and postural advice
- Safe return-to-exercise guidance
- Individualised rehab planning
The aim is to help you feel strong, supported, and back in control of your body.
When Should You Seek Treatment?
You don’t need to wait until symptoms become severe.
We recommend booking if:
- You’re experiencing pain during pregnancy
- You’ve had a baby and don’t feel fully recovered
- You’re unsure how to return to exercise safely
- You have ongoing weakness, leakage or discomfort
Whether you’re weeks or years postnatal, it’s never too late to improve.
Why Choose Handforth Physiotherapy & Rehab?
At Handforth Physiotherapy & Rehab, we provide:
- Specialist women’s health physiotherapy
- A private, comfortable clinic environment
- Clear, personalised rehabilitation plans
- A focus on long-term results—not quick fixes
We take the time to understand your goals and help you return to the activities that matter to you.
Book An Appointment
If you’re struggling during pregnancy or after birth, we can help.
Book your appointment online or contact the clinic to speak with us in confidence.
Your Questions, Answered.
Can’t find what your looking for?
How soon should I see a physio after having a baby?
Many women wait 6 weeks postpartum, but we are happy to see you sooner if you need advice and support.
Is it safe to have physiotherapy during pregnancy?
Yes. Treatment is adapted specifically for pregnancy and focuses on safe, comfortable techniques to manage pain and support your body.
What is diastasis recti?
Diastasis recti is a separation of the abdominal muscles that can occur during pregnancy. Physiotherapy can help guide safe and effective recovery.
Can physiotherapy help me return to exercise?
Yes. We provide structured guidance to help you return to running, gym training, or general activity safely and confidently.
Do I need to have symptoms to book?
No. Many women attend for reassurance, assessment, and guidance—particularly before returning to exercise.
Will I need an internal examination?
This may be recommended to assess pelvic floor function, but it is always optional and only carried out with your full consent.
Can’t find what your looking for?
