To regain your general fitness following pregnancy we recommend a postnatal physiotherapy assessment when your baby is 6-8 weeks old. This will ensure that you gain good control of your core stability muscles and pelvic floor before increasing activity levels. We offer individual exercise programmes but we find that most Mums really enjoy bringing their baby along to our postnatal pilates classes. 

 

Postnatal Pilates is run in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. These classes are designed for mums and babies (under 1 year), but you are very welcome to come alone for some time-out. The programme includes advice and strengthening for pelvic floor & back pain, we discuss scar tissue massage and teach some infant massage techniques. These classes are a perfect way to gently return to exercise, regain your core stability and experience the benefits of stretching.

 

We also run a Mums, Dads and babies hydrotherapy class which is lots of fun. This class is run at the hydrotherapy pool at Albany hospital. The programme runs for a 6 week block. This is not a swimming class it is simply a fun and positive introduction to the water for your baby. There is a focus on gross motor skills for your baby. We also have time in our session to focus on fitness for Mums. Babies must be 12 weeks old. Please call us once your baby arrives to reserve your place in this class.

 

Physiotherapy can help with your physical recovery after the birth of your baby. Some issues can develop as a result of delivery or the new tasks your body must perform as a mum! If you experience any of the following issues physiotherapy may be able to help:

 

• Blocked milk ducts/mastitis
• Caesarean section scar pain
• Cracked nipples
• Weak tummy muscles
• Loss of bowel/bladder control
• Painful tail bone
• Back or neck pain
• Haemorrhoids or pain when using bowels
• Episiotomy/tear scar pain 
• Urgency to pass urine or use bowels
• Pain during sexual intercourse
• Passing urine frequently
• Difficulty keeping tampon in place

If you are experiencing blocked milk ducts or mastitis it is advisable to seek advice and treatment as soon as possible. Please let our reception staff know what the issue is so that they can prioritise your treatment.