Why movement can feel different after pregnancy
Pregnancy changes how weight is distributed and how muscles in the core, pelvic floor, and back work to support your body. Childbirth—whether vaginal or cesarean—can affect tissue, muscle coordination, and the way movement feels. For some people, recovery happens gradually without professional support. For others, symptoms like pain, weakness, or leaking persist and affect daily activities.
These changes are not failures or flaws; they are responses to significant physical load and transition. Physical therapy may support recovery by assessing how your body is moving now and building a plan around your current abilities and goals.
Concerns physical therapy may support
Postpartum physical therapy is not one-size-fits-all. Your plan depends on your evaluation, symptoms, and what you hope to work on. Common reasons people seek care after pregnancy include:
- Urinary or fecal incontinence
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Sexual dysfunction or discomfort
- Back or neck pain
- Difficulty returning to exercise or daily activities
- Questions about core function and movement
Physical therapy may support these concerns through education, exercise, and strategies tailored to your body and life. It does not guarantee specific outcomes or timelines, and it is not appropriate for everyone. If you have questions about whether care is right for you, call the clinic to discuss your situation.
What postpartum physical therapy care can look like
Your first visit is typically an evaluation. You will discuss your history, symptoms, and goals. Your therapist will assess how you move, stand, breathe, and use your core and pelvic floor during functional tasks. If a pelvic floor assessment is appropriate, your therapist should explain what it involves and ask for your consent. You can decline or pause at any time.
Assessment
Conversation about your concerns, history, and functional goals; movement and posture observation; optional consent-based pelvic floor assessment when relevant.
Treatment
Education about how your body is moving; exercises for strength, coordination, and control; hands-on techniques when appropriate; home strategies.
For more on the pelvic health evaluation process, see: What to expect at your first pelvic health PT visit.
What to expect at a first visit
First visits are usually longer than follow-up visits to allow time for conversation and assessment. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move easily. Bring your insurance card, any required referral or paperwork, and questions you want to remember. If you are breastfeeding or pumping, you can plan around feeding schedules or ask the clinic about privacy options if needed.
Your therapist will review findings with you and discuss a proposed plan. Visit frequency and duration depend on your evaluation and goals. There is no single schedule that fits everyone, and your plan can change as your body and life change.
When to call the clinic
If you have questions about scheduling, insurance coverage, whether a referral is needed, or whether physical therapy is appropriate for your situation, call (323) 246-4616. The clinic team can help you understand what to expect and what may be needed before your first visit.
This article is general education. It is not a substitute for evaluation or personalized medical advice from your physician or physical therapist. If you are experiencing severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, or other urgent symptoms, contact your physician or seek emergency care.