Pregnancy is a time of incredible change in your body, and those changes don’t stop after giving birth. One aspect often overlooked is the impact on the pelvic floor, abdominal muscles, and overall physical health during and after pregnancy. Seeing a women’s health physiotherapist can be transformative in helping you recover and regain strength. In this post, I’ll share why I believe it’s essential, based on my own experience of abdominal separation during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
What is Abdominal Separation?
Abdominal separation, or diastasis recti, is a common condition during pregnancy where the two large parallel bands of muscles that meet in the middle of the abdomen become separated. This is due to the growing uterus pushing the muscles apart to make room for the baby. After birth, these muscles may remain separated, leading to core weakness, poor posture, and even back pain if left untreated.
In my case, at postpartum, I was dealing with a 5.5cm long and 3cm wide abdominal separation. It felt overwhelming to think about how I would heal and regain my core strength. That’s when I turned to a women’s health physiotherapist.
How a Women’s Health Physio Helps
A women’s health physio specialises in the changes your body undergoes during pregnancy and postpartum. They are trained to assess and treat conditions like diastasis recti, pelvic floor dysfunction, and other pregnancy-related physical issues.
During my sessions, my physio evaluated my abdominal separation and created a personalised exercise plan to gently strengthen my core. I was given targeted exercises to help my body heal without putting too much strain on the muscles. The exercises were simple yet effective—things like deep breathing, leg slides, and gentle core engagements.
After working with my physiotherapist for four weeks, my abdominal separation improved significantly. It reduced to just under 2cm long and 2 fingers wide! This progress was achieved through consistency with the exercises and guidance from my physio, who ensured that I was working at the right pace for my body’s recovery.
The Benefits of Physiotherapy During Pregnancy
- Improved Core Strength: Pregnancy weakens your core, but a physio can help you maintain and build strength safely.
- Prevents or Minimises Abdominal Separation: By learning proper posture and movement, you can prevent excessive abdominal strain.
- Reduces Pregnancy Discomfort: A physio can address back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and other common pregnancy aches.
- Prepares for Labour: Strengthening your pelvic floor and core can make labour easier and aid in a quicker recovery.
Why Postpartum Physio is Essential
After childbirth, your body needs time and care to recover. A women’s health physio can help:
- Heal Abdominal Separation: Through gentle exercises and careful monitoring, they help close the gap and restore your core function.
- Restore Pelvic Floor Health: Pregnancy and delivery can weaken the pelvic floor, leading to issues like incontinence or prolapse. A physio can guide you through strengthening exercises.
- Posture and Mobility: They provide guidance on how to safely move, lift, and care for your newborn without putting strain on your healing body.
My Personal Results
I am so grateful for my experience working with a women’s health physio. When I began postpartum, I wasn’t sure how long it would take to see improvement, but in just four weeks, the change was incredible. My abdominal separation reduced from 5.5cm long and 3cm wide to just under 2cm long and 2 fingers wide. The exercises were gentle, manageable, and tailored to my needs as a new mum.
Final Thoughts
If you are pregnant or recently postpartum, I highly recommend seeing a women’s health physiotherapist. Their expertise can make a significant difference in your recovery journey, allowing you to heal safely and effectively. Whether you’re dealing with abdominal separation, pelvic floor issues, or general discomfort, a physio can provide the support and tools you need to feel strong and confident again.
Your body has done something amazing—give it the care it deserves.
Looking for more support during your pregnancy and postpartum journey? Check out Mumma.Co for self-care products and resources designed to help mums feel their best.