Pregnancy Physiotherapy, Pregnancy Exercise Physiology and Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy brings about significant changes in a woman's body, often leading to various musculoskeletal and pelvic health issues.

While pregnancy-related issues and discomforts are common during pregnancy and postpartum, with appropriate care and management, symptoms can be effectively addressed. Through a multidisciplinary approach involving physiotherapy, exercise physiology, Pilates, and massage therapy, women can receive personalised care aimed at improving pregnancy-related symptoms, optimising physical function, and promoting a healthy pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

If you have been diagnosed with or think you may have pregnancy-related issues, our experienced women's health teams at Oakville and Rouse Hill are here to help. Book via the link below.

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Pregnancy FAQS

Common pregnancy questions answered

What are pregnancy related issues

Pregnancy-related issues encompass a range of physical challenges and discomforts that women may experience during pregnancy and postpartum. These issues may include, but are not limited to, pelvic girdle pain, low back pain, diastasis recti (abdominal separation), urinary incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse. These concerns can impact a woman's mobility, comfort, and overall well-being during pregnancy and beyond.

How Are Pregnancy-Related Issues Diagnosed?

•Comprehensive Assessment: We start with a thorough evaluation of your medical history, pregnancy-related symptoms, and physical examination findings. •Specialised Testing: Specific tests and assessments such as pelvic floor muscle evaluation, ultrasound imaging, and functional movement screening help us accurately identify and characterise pregnancy-related issues.

How Can We Help with Pregnancy-Related Discomfort?

Women’s Health Hub offers a range of treatment options for pregnancy-related issues: •Individualised Exercise Programs: Our Women’s Health Physiotherapists, Exercise Physiologist, and Pilates Instructors design tailored exercise programs to address specific issues such as pelvic girdle pain, low back pain, and diastasis recti. These programs may include pelvic floor exercises, core stabilisation exercises, stretching, and strengthening exercises to improve muscle function and alleviate discomfort. •Manual Therapy: Our Women’s Health Physiotherapists and Massage Therapist use hands-on techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, joint mobilisation, and myofascial release to alleviate pain, improve joint mobility, and enhance tissue flexibility. •Education and Lifestyle Modification: We provide education on proper body mechanics, posture, ergonomic principles, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms effectively and prevent further progression of pregnancy-related issues. •Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Our Women’s Health Physiotherapist implements pelvic floor muscle training, biofeedback therapy, and bladder training techniques to address urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and other pelvic floor dysfunctions commonly associated with pregnancy.

How Can Exercise Physiology and Pilates Help?

•Core Strengthening: Safe and effective core strengthening exercises support the spine, pelvis, and abdominal muscles during pregnancy and postpartum recovery. •Postural Alignment: Improving postural awareness, alignment, and muscle balance reduces strain on the spine and pelvis, alleviates low back pain, and promotes optimal biomechanics throughout pregnancy. •Functional Movement: Incorporating functional movement patterns and exercises enhances mobility, stability, and balance, facilitating the performance of daily activities and reducing the risk of pregnancy-related injuries. •Mind-Body Connection: Emphasising mindfulness, breathing techniques, and relaxation strategies reduces stress, promotes relaxation, and enhances overall well-being during pregnancy and childbirth.

What is Pregnancy related Back Pain?

Pregnancy-related back pain can be challenging, but with the right support and treatment, it can be managed effectively. Pregnancy-related back pain refers to discomfort or pain experienced in the lower back region during pregnancy. It can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and is often attributed to the physical changes that occur in a woman's body during pregnancy, including hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and changes in posture and centre of gravity. Our women's health team is dedicated to providing personalised care and empowering pregnant individuals to experience a more comfortable and enjoyable pregnancy journey.

What is Pelvic Girdle Pain?

Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) refers to discomfort or pain in the pelvic region, specifically around the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and surrounding muscles and ligaments. PGP is a common condition, most often associated with pregnancy but can affect anyone. Symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain: •Lower back pain: This may be localized or radiate to the buttocks, hips, groin, or thighs. •Pain around the sacroiliac joints: The sacroiliac joints connect the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of the spine) to the ilium bones of the pelvis. PGP can cause pain and discomfort in this area. •Pain in the pubic area: PGP can lead to pain and tenderness in the pubic bone or the symphysis pubis, the joint at the front of the pelvis. •Difficulty with weight-bearing activities: Activities such as walking, climbing stairs, standing, or turning in bed may exacerbate the pain or be challenging to perform. •Clicking or grinding sensations: Some individuals may experience clicking or grinding sensations in the pelvic region. The exact causes of pelvic girdle pain are not fully understood but are likely multifactorial. During pregnancy, hormonal changes, increased joint laxity, and the shifting of weight and posture can contribute to PGP. However, PGP can also occur in individuals who are not pregnant due to factors such as trauma, overuse, joint dysfunction, muscle imbalances, or postural issues. Managing Pelvic Girdle Pain: Management and treatment of PGP typically involve a multidisciplinary approach, including: •Physiotherapy, Pilates and Exercise Physiology: Specialized exercises to improve core stability and muscle strength, manual therapy, and modifications to daily activities or posture. •Pain management techniques: Including manual therapy and other interventions. •Exercise: Tailored to strengthen core and pelvic muscles. •Daily activity modifications: Adjustments to daily routines and posture to alleviate discomfort. Consult our team for accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan based on your specific concerns, symptoms and circumstance.

Why am I experiencing discomfort and pain in my body during pregnancy?

Postural changes during pregnancy refer to alterations in body alignment and posture that occur as a result of the physiological and biomechanical changes associated with pregnancy. These changes may include an increase in the curvature of the lower back (lumbar lordosis), a forward shift of the centre of gravity, and rounding of the shoulders and upper back.

Benefits of Exercise during pregnancy?

Exercise during pregnancy offers numerous benefits for both the mother and baby. It enhances overall physical health, helping to manage weight gain and reducing the risk of gestational diabetes and hypertension. Regular physical activity can alleviate common pregnancy discomforts, such as back pain and swelling, by promoting better posture and improved circulation. Exercise also boosts energy levels, improves mood, and reduces stress, contributing to better mental health. Additionally, staying active can improve sleep quality and prepare the body for labor and delivery by strengthening and lengthening muscles and enhancing endurance. Embracing a safe, well-rounded exercise routine during pregnancy supports a healthy pregnancy journey and promotes a smoother postpartum recovery. Pregnancy exercise guidance involves tailored recommendations and support provided to women during pregnancy and the postpartum period to help them maintain or improve their physical fitness safely. This guidance encompasses exercise prescription, education on safe and effective exercises, and strategies to address common musculoskeletal changes and challenges experienced during pregnancy and after childbirth. Book with our Exercise Physiologist to get moving.