Why Pelvic Floor Health Is So Important After Birth
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissue at the base of your pelvis that supports your bladder, uterus, and bowel. These muscles help with posture, core stability, sexual function, and continence (yes, they play a big role in peeing and pooping!). During pregnancy and birth—especially vaginal delivery, but even during C-sections—your pelvic floor experiences a huge amount of pressure and stretch.
After birth, it’s common to notice things like:
- Leaking urine (especially with coughing, sneezing, or jumping)
- A heavy or dragging sensation in the vagina
- Pain during intimacy
- Constipation or difficulty fully emptying your bowels
- A general feeling of weakness or instability in your core
These are all signs that your pelvic floor after birth needs some attention—and they’re incredibly common, but not things you just have to live with.
What to Expect from Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
We get it. The idea of pelvic floor physical therapy can feel a little intimidating if you’re not sure what it involves. But here’s the truth: it’s gentle, supportive, and centered around you.
So, what does pelvic floor physical therapy entail?
At your first visit, we’ll sit down and talk. We want to understand your birth story, your symptoms, your goals, and how your body feels day to day. From there, we’ll do a full-body movement assessment and (only with your consent) an internal exam if appropriate—this helps us understand what’s happening with your pelvic floor muscles.
Sessions may include:
- Hands-on work to release tight muscles or scar tissue
- Core and pelvic floor retraining
- Breathing and nervous system regulation techniques
- Movement and exercise designed for postpartum bodies
If you’ve been wondering what to expect at pelvic floor physical therapy, it’s this: care that listens, honors your story, and helps you move forward.
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When to Start Pelvic Floor Therapy After Birth
There’s no one “right” time, but earlier support often means smoother healing. At Awake, we often begin working with moms as early as 2 weeks postpartum with virtual sessions focused on education, gentle movement, and early healing strategies. In-person sessions often begin around the 6-week mark, but we also see moms at 6 months, 1 year, or even years later—it’s never too late.
Some signs it might be time to seek pelvic floor therapy:
- You’re leaking urine or feel pressure in your vagina
- Sex feels painful or uncomfortable
- You feel disconnected from your core
- You want to return to exercise but aren’t sure how
- You just don’t feel quite right in your body
If you’re asking, when should I start pelvic floor therapy after birth? —trust your gut. If something feels off, that’s a reason to get support.
Why Kegels Aren’t Always Enough
“Kegels” are often the only advice new moms get—but they’re not a magic fix. In fact, many postpartum women don’t need to strengthen their pelvic floor—they need to release it first. Tight, overworked muscles can actually contribute to leaking, pain, and pressure.
That’s why we take a more holistic approach:
- We assess the whole body, not just the pelvic floor
- We include breathing, posture, and core retraining
- We use manual therapy, movement, and nervous system support
- We individualize care based on your body and your birth
Pelvic floor rehab is not one-size-fits-all. Personalized support matters—and Kegels alone rarely get to the root of the issue.
How Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Supports Whole-Body Recovery
Pelvic floor physical therapy isn’t just about your pelvis. We’re here to support whole-body healing—because birth impacts your entire system.
Our work helps with:
- Core strength and deep abdominal support
- Postural alignment and how you carry your body
- Hip, back, and tailbone pain
- Scar tissue healing from C-section or tearing
- Emotional confidence and reconnecting with your body
So while we absolutely care about your pelvic floor, we also care about how you feel walking, lifting, exercising, and living your life.
What to Look for in a Pelvic Floor Therapist
If you’re thinking of starting therapy, here’s what to look for:
- A licensed physical therapist with training in pelvic health
- Someone who offers trauma-informed care and makes you feel safe
- Experience working with postpartum clients
- A whole-body approach, not just pelvic floor exercises
- A warm, compassionate vibe—you should feel heard, not rushed
At Awake, every therapist is hand-picked for their clinical excellence and genuine heart for this work. We truly care about our clients’ stories, healing, and long-term well-being. And in the state of MN, you don’t need a referral to start PT care, you can simply call and set up your first appointment!
How to Advocate for Yourself Postpartum
It’s okay to ask for more than the six-week “all clear.” That checkup doesn’t always include a pelvic floor assessment, and many moms leave feeling confused or dismissed. Here’s your reminder:
- You deserve care
- You’re allowed to ask questions
- You don’t have to wait for things to get worse
Bring it up with your OB, midwife, or primary provider—and if they’re not familiar with pelvic floor therapy, let them know you’ve found someone who is. Your body just did something incredible. Let’s help it recover with the care it deserves.
You’re Not Broken—You Just Need Support
Motherhood changes everything—including your body. But those changes don’t have to mean discomfort, leaking, or feeling disconnected. The truth is, you’re not broken. You just need support.
At Awake Pelvic Health & Wellness, we specialize in helping moms heal with compassion, education, and expert care. We believe that motherhood is a sport, and you deserve to feel strong, confident, and fully at home in your body again.
Curious about how we can help you. Connect with our team at Awake—we’re here for you, every step of the way!
Website: https://www.awakepelvichealth.com/
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