Pregnancy and motherhood is an incredibly exciting and special time filled with joy, anticipation, and—naturally—a lot of physical change (and sometimes a few tears too).
At Phyx., our caring team of Physiotherapists and Pelvic Health Physiotherapists have a special interest in pregnancy care. We provide safe, evidence-based treatment, education, and exercise guidance to support you through every stage of your journey.
Pregnancy Support
Why Is Physio Important During Pregnancy?
Your body is going through rapid physical changes that your muscles and joints simply aren’t used to. Physiotherapy helps you manage these changes, reduce discomfort, and keep you moving confidently throughout your pregnancy.
You might notice:
- Sore or achy hips when lying on your side
- Lower back pain
- Pelvis “locking” or sharp pelvic pain
- Shooting/stabbing pain through your buttock or down your leg
- Upper back or neck stiffness
- Rib pain
- Sharp pain above your pubic bone
- Pregnancy-related constipation
- Leakage of urine or wind with coughing, sneezing or laughing
Common Conditions Our Maternal Health Physiotherapists Can Help With
- Lower Back Pain
- Round Ligament Pain
- Pelvic Pain or Pelvic Girdle Pain
- Sciatica
- Lateral Hip Pain
- Carpal Tunnel
- Neck and Shoulder Pain
- Upper Back Pain / Stiffness
- Pubic Symphysis Pain
- Headaches
- Posture Pain
- Core Strength
Physiotherapy Treatment Options Safe During Pregnancy
During your treatment, your maternal health physio may use a variety of treatment methods to help reduce your pain, such as;
- Massage
- Joint mobilisation
- Myofascial release
- Postural help
- Taping
- Providing you with strategies to help you prevent strains on your changing body
- Prescription of supports and braces (eg a sacroiliac joint belt, SRC pants)
- Exercise prescription
- Education
Pelvic Health Physiotherapy During Pregnancy
You will see our Pelvic Health Physios at two key stages:
From 20 Weeks
This session focuses on understanding your pelvic floor health, identifying risk factors, and addressing any concerns early.
If an internal assessment is not appropriate or you prefer external only, that is absolutely fine.
From 34 Weeks
This appointment prepares you for birth (regardless of delivery type) and includes:
You can expect:
- Discussion of your pregnancy & pelvic floor history
- Internal pelvic floor assessment (unless contraindicated/preferred externally)
- Checking strength, endurance & coordination
- Education on bowel, bladder & sexual function
- Identifying risks for pelvic floor dysfunction (e.g., prolapse)
- Birth preparation strategies (including perineal massage)
- Guidance on reducing perineal tearing
- Information on early postpartum recovery and what to expect
You are welcome to bring your partner to this appointment.
Important: A caesarean section does not fully protect against pelvic floor dysfunction.
