Postpartum recovery is a crucial phase of the journey in motherhood. Despite that, it is a commonly overlooked aspect of healthcare. After growing and carrying a child for nine months then experiencing childbirth, the body has undergone some very significant changes—many of which impact the pelvic floor. Common issues like urinary incontinence, rectal leakage, core weakness, pelvic pain, and prolapse occur, but that does not mean that they are normal. And we're here to tell you, they are not something new mothers have to accept as a normal part of life.
Pelvic floor physical therapy plays a vital role in restoring strength, function, and confidence after childbirth. At Beform Performance and Physical Therapy in Sudbury, MA, we specialize in helping women navigate postpartum recovery safely and effectively. In this guide, we’ll explore how pelvic floor therapy supports healing and when to seek professional care.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor and Its Role in Postpartum Recovery
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. During pregnancy and childbirth, these muscles undergo significant strain due to hormonal changes, increased pressure, anatomical changes during pregnancy and postpartum and the physical demands of labor. Whether a woman has a vaginal delivery or C-section, the pelvic floor is impacted, often leading to unspoken postpartum challenges.
Common Postpartum Pelvic Floor Issues:
- Urinary incontinence – Leaking urine with coughing, sneezing, or exercise.
- Pelvic organ prolapse – A sensation of heaviness or pressure due to weakened support structures.
- Pelvic pain – Discomfort during movement, intercourse, or daily activities.
- Diastasis recti – A separation of the abdominal muscles, impacting core strength and stability.
These issues are common but not normal, and they can significantly impact quality of life. Fortunately, pelvic floor therapy provides a safe, evidence-based approach to restoring function and promoting long-term recovery.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps After Childbirth
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized approach that addresses muscle dysfunction, restores strength, and improves overall postpartum recovery. Through targeted exercises and hands-on techniques, a pelvic floor physical therapist helps new mothers regain control of their bodies and prevent long-term complications.
Key Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy:
- Improved Bladder & Bowel Control – Therapy strengthens weakened muscles to reduce incontinence and support normal function.
- Reduced Pelvic Pain & Discomfort – Manual therapy and guided exercises relieve tightness, scar tissue restrictions, and post-birth pain.
- Core & Postural Stability – Strengthening the pelvic floor and deep core muscles helps correct diastasis recti and improves overall stability.
- Safe Return to Exercise & Activity – Therapy ensures proper muscle engagement, preventing injuries and promoting safe movement.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Techniques May Include:
- Manual therapy to release muscle tightness and improve tissue mobility.
- Biofeedback training to enhance awareness and control of pelvic floor muscles.
- Postural and breathing exercises to support proper pressure management in daily activities.
- Customized strength programs tailored to individual recovery needs.
At Beform Performance and Physical Therapy, we take a personalized approach to postpartum recovery, ensuring that each woman receives the care and guidance she needs to heal, rebuild strength, and feel her best.
When to Start Pelvic Floor Therapy After Birth
The timeline for starting pelvic floor therapy varies depending on the type of delivery, overall recovery, and any complications during childbirth. While every woman’s healing process is unique, general guidelines can help determine when to seek professional support.
Safe Timelines for Recovery and Therapy Initiation
- Vaginal Delivery: Many women can begin gentle pelvic floor exercises within the first few weeks postpartum.
- Cesarean Delivery: Recovery may take longer due to abdominal surgery, but pelvic floor therapy can still begin soon after delivery after consultations between your OB/GYN and pelvic floor therapist
- Sequelae after birth: Women who experience severe tearing, prolapse, or significant pain postpartum will benefit from and need a more gradual approach and should consult a specialist early in their recovery.
Signs That Indicate the Need for Pelvic Floor Therapy
- Persistent urinary leakage, especially during coughing, sneezing, or exercise
- A sensation of heaviness or bulging in the pelvic area
- Pain during intercourse or daily activities
- Difficulty engaging core muscles or signs of diastasis recti
- Lower back or hip pain related to muscle imbalances
Early intervention with pelvic floor therapy can prevent long-term dysfunction and support a faster, more complete recovery. At Beform Performance and Physical Therapy, we guide postpartum women through every stage of healing with individualized care plans tailored to their needs.
Why Choose Beform Performance and Physical Therapy?
At Beform Performance and Physical Therapy, we specialize in women’s health and postpartum rehabilitation, offering expert care to help new mothers regain strength, confidence, and function. Our approach goes beyond traditional postpartum recovery by addressing the root causes of pelvic floor dysfunction and creating individualized treatment plans for long-term well-being.
What Sets Us Apart?
- Expertise in Pelvic Health Rehabilitation – Our physical therapists have specialized training in pelvic floor therapy and postpartum recovery.
- Personalized Treatment Plans – Every woman’s recovery is unique, and we tailor therapy to address specific concerns and goals.
- Whole-Body Approach – We integrate core strengthening, breathing mechanics, and movement training for complete healing.
- Support for Every Stage of Recovery – Whether you’re weeks, months, or even years postpartum, therapy can help restore function and prevent long-term issues.
If you’re experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction or want to ensure a safe and effective postpartum recovery, Beform Performance and Physical Therapy is here to help. Schedule an appointment today and take the next step toward healing.
