Pregnancy and childbirth are extraordinary experiences—but they place significant physical demands on the body. From abdominal separation (diastasis recti) to pelvic floor dysfunction and back pain, many new mothers experience changes that impact both their physical and emotional well-being.

That’s where postnatal physiotherapy comes in. With the guidance of a trained physiotherapist, new moms can safely rebuild strength, restore pelvic health, and regain confidence in their bodies.

In this article, we’ll explore how postnatal physio supports recovery after birth—especially in the Canadian healthcare context—and why it should be a standard part of every mother’s healing journey.

Why Postnatal Physiotherapy Matters

After giving birth, many women are told to “take it easy” or “give it time”—but what they really need is structured rehabilitation. Just as athletes undergo physio after injury or surgery, postpartum bodies need professional support to recover from the musculoskeletal demands of pregnancy and delivery.

Common post-birth issues treated by physiotherapists:

• Pelvic floor weakness or incontinence
• Diastasis recti (abdominal separation)
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Low back, hip, or pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse
• Core instability or weakness
• C-section recovery and scar tissue mobility

Left untreated, these issues can persist or worsen–but with targeted postnatal rehab, most are completed treatable.

When to Start Postnatal Physiotherapy

In Canada, most women have a six-week postpartum checkup with their OB-GYN or midwife—but you don’t need to wait that long to see a physiotherapist. You can typically begin gentle postnatal physio as early as 2–4 weeks postpartum, especially if guided by a pelvic health specialist.

Ideal Timeline:

• 2–6 weeks postpartum: Gentle breathwork, core activation, pelvic floor education
• 6–12 weeks postpartum: Functional strength, posture correction, mobility work
• 3–6 months+ postpartum: Higher-intensity rehab, return-to-fitness programming, running or lifting readiness

Every recovery is different, so your physiotherapist will tailor the plan to your birth experience, delivery type, and current symptoms.

What to Expect at Your Postnatal Physio Appointment

One of the biggest focuses of postnatal physiotherapy is rebuilding the core and pelvic floor–two systems that work together for posture, balance, and continence.

• A full medical and birth history review
• Assessment of your posture, breathing, and core engagement
• Diastasis recti check (abdominal separation)
• Pelvic floor assessment (external and/or internal, based on your comfort)
• Education on safe movements, lifting, and daily activities
• A personalized treatment plan that may include exercises, manual therapy, and home care

Note: In Canada, pelvic health physiotherapists are licensed and often require a referral for insurance reimbursement—check with your extended health benefits provider.

Core and Pelvic Floor: The Postpartum Power Duo

One of the biggest focuses of postnatal physiotherapy is rebuilding the core and pelvic floor—two systems that work together for posture, balance, and continence.

Core Rehab Includes:

• Diaphragmatic breathing
• Transverse abdominis activation
• Reconnecting to deep core muscles (not just crunches!)
• Diastasis recti rehabilitation

Pelvic Floor Therapy Includes:

• Kegels (if appropriate), or relaxation if overactive
• Biofeedback or internal muscle retraining
• Support for bladder leakage, prolapse, and pelvic pain

Your physio will help you retrain your body from the inside out, building strength and function safely and progressively.

Restoring Confidence–Physically and Emotionally

Recovering after childbirth isn’t just about regaining physical strength. Many women feel disconnected from their bodies, anxious about intimacy, or frustrated by pain or dysfunction.

Postnatal physiotherapy helps rebuild:

• Physical capability (so you can lift your baby without strain)
• Confidence in movement and daily function
• Trust in your body again after a difficult or traumatic birth
• Comfort and knowledge about your pelvic and core health

Conclusion

Postnatal physiotherapy is more than just exercise–it's a vital part of healing that supports physical strength, pelvic health, and emotional well-being. Whether you're weeks or months postpartum, it's never too late to start.

By working with a trained postnatal physiotherapist, you'll gain the tools and support to rebuild your core, recover from birth, and feel strong and confident again–because you deserve nothing less.