❌You don’t have to wait until 6 weeks after birth to see a physio
❌You don’t have to wait until 6 weeks to start exercising
❌ You don’t have to wait until 6 weeks to start rehab for your abdominal muscles
In fact, there is SO MUCH we can help with in the first 6 weeks.
These are some of my favourite reasons for seeing new Mamas early (preferably on a home visit 🏠):
💙 We can go through tips and tricks for healing of your caesarian scar or sutures, including icing, rest, early scar desensitisation etc
💙 We can check for abdominal separation and start early rehab with strengthening exercises (that’s right, you don’t have to wait until 6 weeks!)
💙 We can chat about the best way to use abdominal support
💙 We can go through positions and postures for feeding, lifting, carrying and changing bub
💙 We can chat about bladder and bowel function & identify issues early
💙 We can put together an early strength & mobility program to help you meet the physical demand of caring for a new baby
💙 We can chat about the best way to handle your breasts if you’re breastfeeding and some ways to minimise your risk of nipple trauma and blocked ducts/mastitis
Now this doesn’t mean you don’t need a 6 week physio check up. This is still super important to:
🌸 Do a pelvic floor assessment (not compulsory but highly recommended)
🌸 Review your exercise technique and progress your program to include more challenging exercises
🌸 Make a plan to get you back to moving and functioning the way you want to be
🌸 Assess for and treat any pain in your body, bladder/bowel concerns or symptoms of prolapse
In my experience, Mums who have an early postpartum appointment in addition to their 6 week check often feel less overwhelmed.
There is a lot of information to cover so it makes sense to spread it out over two sessions instead of one jam-packed one 💕
It also leaves Mamas feeling more empowered with knowledge and supported because they know I’m in their corner 😉 💪
Reach out if you’d like more info on early postpartum physio 💙