Postnatal Physiotherapy in Christchurch

Every woman’s experience of pregnancy, labour, and birth is completely her own. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a caesarean, your body has been through something extraordinary and it deserves expert care and attention in the weeks and months that follow.

Too many women put up with leaking, prolapse, bowel problems, back pain, or painful sex because they’ve been told it’s just part of having a baby. It isn’t. These are real, treatable conditions and you don’t have to live with them.

At Liberty Pelvic Health, we believe every woman should have a pelvic health check after having a baby. We provide a comprehensive postnatal assessment to address all your concerns and set you up for long-term health.

 

Conditions we treat

Our expert postnatal physiotherapists can help you with:

• Urinary incontinence or urgency
• Bowel incontinence, urgency, or constipation
• Pelvic organ prolapse (a bulging or dragging feeling in the pelvis)
• Painful sex (dyspareunia)
• Back, hip, or pelvic pain
• Diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation)
• Rehabilitation after perineal tears
• Scar management, including caesarean, perineal, and vaginal scars
• Mastitis treatment
• Coccyx pain
• Post-caesarean rehabilitation
• Safe return to exercise after birth

 

Returning to exercise after birth

It can be tempting to get straight back into exercise after having your baby, but returning too soon, or without the right support, can lead to leaking, prolapse, or injury that sets you back further.

Our expert physiotherapists will help you return to exercise safely and progressively; at a pace that’s right for your body and your goals. Whether you want to get back to running, the gym, or simply feel strong again, we’ll build a plan that works for you and supports your long-term health.

 

What to expect at your postnatal assessment

Your first appointment is longer than a standard physiotherapy session, giving us time to understand your full history and current concerns. We want to know about you not just your symptoms.

We’ll ask about:

• Your pregnancy and birth experience
• Any pain you’re currently experiencing
• Bladder and bowel function
• Medical, gynaecological, and surgical history
• Sexual function
• Diet, exercise, and your goals

We’ll then carry out a thorough physical examination, which may include assessment of:

• Posture and breathing mechanics
• Musculoskeletal and biomechanical function
• The pelvic floor muscles, where appropriate

If an internal examination is needed, your physiotherapist will explain the process fully and will only proceed if you feel completely comfortable. Internal examinations allow us to make an accurate diagnosis and provide the most effective treatment.

 

ACC Maternal Birthing Injuries

From 1 October 2022, ACC began covering injuries caused by the internal forces of vaginal birth. If you gave birth on or after that date and experienced a birthing injury, you are likely eligible for ACC cover. This helps to significantly reduce the cost of your treatment.

We are registered ACC providers and can lodge your claim on your behalf. Find out more about ACC Maternal Birthing Injuries

 

Book your postnatal assessment today

Your body has adapted, grown and worked hard through pregnancy and birth. Now let us help you recover well. No referral needed, book with one of our Christchurch postnatal physiotherapists today.