The arrival of a baby is a moment of joy and transformation—but it also brings physical challenges for the mother’s body. Pelvic physiotherapy in the postpartum period is an essential ally to help recovery, strengthening the pelvic floor and preventing common discomforts after childbirth.
What is postpartum pelvic physiotherapy?
Pelvic physiotherapy is a specialized field that works the muscles, ligaments and tissues that support organs such as the bladder, uterus and intestine. In the postpartum period, it helps restore the strength and balance of this region, which may have been weakened during pregnancy and delivery—whether vaginal or cesarean. The practice involves exercises, breathing techniques and the use of specific equipment that help with proper awareness and contraction of the pelvic musculature.
Main benefits of pelvic physiotherapy
1. Strengthening the pelvic floor
During pregnancy and delivery, the pelvic floor is subjected to great pressure. Physiotherapy helps to reinforce this region, preventing complications such as urinary incontinence and prolapse of pelvic organs.
2. Improved posture and body stability
With guided exercises, the mother regains stability in the lumbar and pelvic region, which contributes to postural correction and decreased back pain.
3. Recovery of sexual function
Proper muscular work supports blood circulation and sensitivity in the intimate region, which favors a return to sexual life with more comfort and confidence.
4. Prevention of pain and discomfort
Physiotherapy acts to reduce perineal, scar and abdominal pains—especially in cases of vaginal delivery with laceration or cesarean with adhesions.
5. Emotional support and self‐confidence
Beyond physical benefits, physiotherapeutic follow-up helps the woman reconnect with her own body, promoting well-being and self-esteem in the postpartum period.
When to begin pelvic physiotherapy in the postpartum
The ideal time to begin treatment may vary according to the type of delivery and the mother’s recovery conditions.
- Vaginal delivery: generally, one may begin 2 to 4 weeks after delivery, with medical authorization.
- Cesarean section: it is recommended to wait 6 to 8 weeks, respecting the healing process.
In both cases, an evaluation by a pelvic physiotherapist is essential to define the appropriate treatment plan.
Important: the earlier the woman starts the follow-up, the faster and more effective her recovery tends to be.
Signs that you may need pelvic physiotherapy
Some common symptoms after childbirth indicate that it’s time to seek specialized help:
- Difficulty holding urine, gas or stool
- Feeling of weight or pressure in the intimate region
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Constant lumbar or pelvic pain
- Difficulty perceiving the pelvic floor muscles
Ignoring these signs may delay recovery and compromise quality of life.
Postpartum pelvic physiotherapy goes far beyond aesthetics. It is a health-care practice that prevents problems, accelerates recovery and helps the woman feel confident and connected with her body again.
Seeking specialized care is a gesture of self-love and care for the future—because a healthy mother is the first step to a healthy family.
