The Importance of Having a Postnatal Check

At LETO, we believe mothers and their bodies need to be looked after just as much as their babies do after they give birth and that they shouldn’t have to put up with the symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction just because they birthed a baby.

We also believe every new mother should have a post-natal check with a specialist pelvic health physiotherapist.

Why?

Because your body undergoes many changes during pregnancy and continues to change postnatally, it is essential to address any issues that occur at this time to prevent problems such as leaking, back pain, pelvic pain, heaviness or dragging, prolapse, incontinence and abdominal separation later in life.

As a new mother, you will inevitably feel anxious about the changes to your body, any symptoms you are experiencing and your recovery. Our specialist pelvic health physiotherapists will support you on your journey back to feeling yourself and doing what you love as quickly and safely as possible.

We recommend you attend your postnatal check 6-8 weeks after childbirth; however, better late than never!

What to expect during the consultation:

• discussion regarding your concerns and short & long-term goals
• medical history review (your pregnancy, labour, postnatal recovery, and past medical history, including medications and emotional issues)
• an internal vaginal examination to investigate the impact of pregnancy and labour on your pelvic floor
• evidence-based assessments and functional tests to assess your posture, pelvic alignment, biomechanics, abdominal muscle recruitment & pelvic floor strength

Treatment may include:

• a prescribed pelvic floor program to improve the health and function of your pelvic floor muscles.
• functional training for optimal and effective recruitment of the pelvic floor muscles with daily tasks or during exercise.
• manual physiotherapy to release tension, improve mobility, and aid with movement and function.
• perineal or c-section scar massage to facilitate scar healing and optimise muscular functioning during recovery.
• coaching for optimal breathing techniques to optimise pressure management within your core and reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.
• prescriptive exercises to regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve strength.
• a tailored rehabilitation program with or without app-based, at-home exercise prescription or clinical Pilates to progress your recovery at the appropriate pace.
• lifestyle recommendations, including gut, bladder and bowel habits to further protect and promote your pelvic health into the future.

Following your appointment, you will receive your LETO postnatal report, any supplementary information that will be helpful for you, and a detailed pathway to achieve your pelvic health and fitness goals.

To book an appointment or a 15-minute complimentary call with one of our team, please call 020 3848 9439 or email [email protected].