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WA Health Group Provides

Postnatal Physiotherapy In Perth

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Supporting Your Recovery After Birth

Welcoming a baby is a special time, and it often comes with physical changes. Our postnatal physiotherapists provide individualised care to support your recovery and help you return to comfortable movement at your own pace.

Whether you’ve had a vaginal or caesarean birth, our physiotherapists can assess your pelvic floor and overall function, provide guidance on safe exercise, and assist with strategies to support your postnatal wellbeing.

How Physiotherapy Supports Postnatal Recovery?

Many women notice a range of physical changes following pregnancy and childbirth. Physiotherapists can provide assessment, education, and individualised guidance to support recovery and help you move with confidence.

Physiotherapy may assist with:

  • Pelvic floor care — assessing and guiding strategies for managing weakness, heaviness, or leakage after birth

  • Abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti) — providing exercises to promote tension and functional strength

  • Lower back, hip, or pelvic discomfort — offering techniques to support movement and comfort during recovery

  • Scar management — providing education and gentle techniques following a caesarean section or perineal stitches

  • Safe return to exercise — offering advice to help you gradually resume walking, lifting, gym, or Pilates activities

  • Education and reassurance — explaining postnatal changes, what’s typical, and when further assessment may be helpful

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Your Postnatal Assessment

Every woman’s postnatal recovery is unique. During your first appointment, your physiotherapist will:

  • Discuss your birth experience, current symptoms, and personal goals

  • Assess posture, pelvic floor function, and core muscle activation

  • Develop an individualised plan to support safe movement and gradual return to activity

  • Provide education and guidance to help you understand and manage postnatal changes

Our approach focuses on supporting function, comfort, and confidence, helping you feel informed and empowered in your recovery journey.

When to Book an Appointment?

Postnatal physiotherapy can be helpful whether you are six weeks postpartum or several months (or years) after giving birth. You may consider booking an appointment if you experience:

  • Pelvic discomfort or a feeling of heaviness

  • Ongoing abdominal separation

  • Bladder or bowel leakage

  • Pain with movement, lifting, or intimacy

  • Uncertainty about returning to exercise safely

Samantha
Canning Vale - Womens Physio - Casey

Why Choose WA Health Group?

  • Experienced physiotherapists with additional training in women’s health and postnatal recovery

  • Holistic care that considers your physical, emotional, and lifestyle needs

  • Collaborative team – we work closely with GPs, obstetricians, and other health professionals as needed

  • Private, supportive environment where you can feel comfortable and understood

We are a call away!

Whether you want to book an appointment or want help finding the right service, give your local clinic a call. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Apex Physiotherapy, Bicton

99/103 Harris St, Bicton WA 6157, Australia

 

 

Burswood Health Professionals, Burswood

21 Harvey St, Burswood WA 6100, Australia

 

 

WA Health Group, Murdoch

8/170 Murdoch Dr, Murdoch WA 6150, Australia

 

 

WA Health Group, Canning Vale

Suite 7 Level 1/2 Queensgate Dr, Canning Vale WA 6155, Australia

 

 

Peak Pilates, Bicton

103 Harris St, Bicton WA 6157, Australia

 

 

FAQ

1. How soon after birth can I start physiotherapy?

It’s safe to begin gentle postnatal physiotherapy once you’ve received clearance from your doctor or midwife, typically around six weeks postpartum. However, if you’re experiencing discomfort earlier, such as pain, swelling, or difficulty moving, you can book an appointment sooner for advice on safe positions and gentle recovery strategies.

2. How can I tell if my body is healing as expected?

It’s common for new mums to wonder what’s “normal.” A physiotherapist can help you understand the difference between expected postnatal changes and symptoms that need attention, such as ongoing pain, heaviness, or leakage. Seeking early advice can make recovery smoother and more comfortable.

3. Can postnatal physiotherapy help even if my baby is older?

Yes. Many women seek postnatal physiotherapy months or even years after giving birth. It can still help with core strength, pelvic floor function, posture, or lingering discomfort. Recovery and improvement are possible at any stage, and treatment is always tailored to your current needs.

4. Will my physiotherapist need to perform an internal assessment?

An internal pelvic floor assessment can provide valuable insight into muscle strength and coordination, but it is always optional. Your physiotherapist will explain the process in detail, and you can decide what feels comfortable for you. There are also external assessment options available if you prefer.

5. Can I bring my baby to the appointment?

Absolutely. Our clinics are family-friendly, and many new mums bring their babies along. Your physiotherapist will work around feeds, naps, and baby breaks so you can focus on your recovery comfortably.

6. How is postnatal physiotherapy different from general physiotherapy?

Postnatal physiotherapy focuses on the unique physical changes that occur during and after pregnancy. This includes assessing pelvic floor health, abdominal muscle recovery, and safe return to movement. The approach is gentle, functional, and specific to postpartum needs.

7. Do I need to stop physiotherapy if I’m breastfeeding?

No, breastfeeding doesn’t affect your ability to receive physiotherapy. Your therapist may adjust positioning or exercises for comfort, especially in the early months, but treatment remains safe and supportive.

8. What if I had complications during pregnancy or birth?

Your physiotherapist will take a full history before starting treatment and adapt all exercises to your specific situation. Communication between your physiotherapist, GP, or specialist ensures your care remains coordinated and appropriate for your health status.

9. Is it okay to do postnatal Pilates or group classes instead of one-on-one sessions?

Group classes can be beneficial once your body is ready, but one-on-one physiotherapy helps ensure you’re activating the right muscles safely before joining group exercise. Your physiotherapist can guide you on when it’s suitable to transition.

 

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