Recovering from childbirth is a unique journey for every new mother. While many focus on caring for their newborn, it's equally important to prioritize postpartum healing—especially when it comes to pelvic health. Pregnancy and delivery put significant strain on the pelvic floor muscles, leading to issues such as incontinence, pain, and core weakness.
Pelvic floor physical therapy (PT) is a highly effective way to support postpartum recovery, helping new mothers regain strength, stability, and confidence in their bodies. At GOAT PT in Gales Ferry, CT, our specialized therapists provide personalized care to address postpartum concerns and help you return to your daily activities with comfort and ease.
READ: Why Gales Ferry’s GOAT PT Is Your Secret Weapon
This guide will walk you through common postpartum pelvic floor challenges, how therapy can help, and what to expect during your first session.
Common Postpartum Pelvic Floor Issues
Pregnancy and childbirth stress on the pelvic floor, often leading to lingering discomfort or dysfunction. Many postpartum women experience:
Leaking urine while sneezing, laughing, or exercising is common after childbirth. This happens because the pelvic floor muscles may be weakened, making it harder to control bladder function.
Some women experience pain in the pelvic region, lower back, or hips due to muscle imbalances, scar tissue from a C-section or perineal tearing, or lingering tension from pregnancy.
During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles stretch to accommodate a growing baby. Sometimes, the two sides of the rectus abdominis muscle don’t fully close back together, leading to a condition called diastasis recti. This can result in core weakness, poor posture, and a persistent "pooch" in the lower abdomen.
Some women experience a heavy, dragging sensation in the pelvic area, which may indicate pelvic organ prolapse. This happens when weakened pelvic floor muscles struggle to support the bladder, uterus, or rectum.
These challenges are common, but they don’t have to be permanent. Pelvic floor therapy at GOAT PT can help restore strength, function, and confidence.
READ: Why Gales Ferry’s GOAT PT Is Your Secret Weapon
How Pelvic Floor PT Supports Recovery
Pelvic floor physical therapy is designed to help new mothers rebuild strength, improve function, and feel more comfortable in their bodies after childbirth. Here’s how it can support your recovery:
Targeted exercises help restore muscle strength and endurance, reducing symptoms like leakage and prolapse.
Many postpartum women experience pelvic pain, lower back discomfort, or painful intercourse. Pelvic floor therapy includes manual techniques, stretching, and muscle re-education to relieve tension and promote healing.
A strong pelvic floor works together with the core muscles to support posture and movement. Therapy helps address diastasis recti, abdominal weakness, and posture, reducing strain on the lower back and improving overall stability.
Postpartum recovery isn’t just about physical healing—it’s about feeling strong and confident in your body again. Pelvic floor PT can help you return to exercise, daily activities, and intimacy without discomfort.
At GOAT PT in Gales Ferry, CT, we tailor every treatment plan to your unique postpartum needs, ensuring a safe and effective recovery.
READ: How Goat Physical Therapy & Wellness Transforms Daily Movement
What to Expect During Your First Session
Your first pelvic floor therapy session at GOAT PT will focus on assessing your postpartum recovery needs and creating a personalized treatment plan. Here’s what you can expect:
Your therapist will begin with a detailed conversation about your childbirth experience, current symptoms, and recovery goals. They may ask about:
Next, your therapist will assess how well your pelvic floor and core muscles are functioning. This may involve:
An internal pelvic exam may be suggested, but it’s always optional and only performed with your full consent.
By the end of your session, your therapist will outline a customized recovery plan, which may include:
At GOAT PT, we prioritize your comfort and empowerment, ensuring that you feel confident in your postpartum recovery journey.
READ: Training for Runners: Optimizing Performance through Physical Therapy
At GOAT PT in Gales Ferry, CT, we recognize that no two postpartum recoveries are the same. Whether you’re a few weeks or several months postpartum, we create a plan tailored to your specific symptoms, goals, and lifestyle needs.
If you’re unsure whether it’s the right time to start therapy, our team can help assess your recovery and provide guidance on the best course of action.
READ: Preventing CrossFit Injuries: How Physical Therapy Enhances Strength and Recovery
Take the Next Step in Your Recovery
Postpartum recovery is a journey, and prioritizing your pelvic health can make a significant difference in how you feel and function. Whether you’re struggling with incontinence, core weakness, or pelvic discomfort, pelvic floor physical therapy can help you regain strength, confidence, and control.
At GOAT PT in Gales Ferry, CT, our expert therapists are here to support you every step of the way with personalized care designed to fit your postpartum needs. Don’t wait to start feeling better—take the next step today. Contact GOAT PT to schedule your appointment and start your recovery journey!