What changes in the body at this stage
After birth, the body has a long road ahead. The uterus shrinks back, the abdominal muscles slowly draw together, the pelvic floor recovers from stretching or tearing, and the scar heals inside and out. At the same time, hormones shift abruptly, sleep is broken and the body is now feeding another human being.
The six-week check is an important milestone, but it does not mean recovery is over. In some countries, such as France, postnatal pelvic floor rehabilitation is part of routine care. Leaking when you jump, pain during sex months later or a heavy feeling in the vagina at the end of the day are common, but not normal.
What may lie at the root
A vaginal birth can stretch or injure the muscles and nerves of the perineum. A caesarean is abdominal surgery through several layers of tissue, and the scar can become stuck down and influence the bladder, bowel and posture. Either way, how you breathe, lift your baby, feed and return to exercise all shape your recovery.
Separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) are not fixed by sit-ups alone. Recovery depends on pressure inside the abdomen, on breathing and on coordination with the pelvic floor. Looking for the root means looking at this whole system.
How we can support you
- Pelvic physiotherapy: after your six-week medical check (or sooner if you have symptoms), we carry out a full assessment: a conversation about the birth, posture and breathing, measuring any diastasis, assessing the scar and perineum and, with your consent, an internal vaginal assessment of strength, tone and organ support. The plan may include pelvic floor exercise with biofeedback, scar massage and manual therapy, tailored abdominal training and a gradual return to running, the gym and sex.
- Visceral osteopathy: gentle work over the abdomen and scars to restore mobility to tissues and organs.
- Breastfeeding support: we help you find comfortable positions, ease tension in your shoulders, neck and back and assess your baby, working with your midwife, lactation consultant and paediatrician.
- Paediatric osteopathy: your baby can be seen in the same appointment.
- Acupuncture: may support you with tiredness, pain and general wellbeing.
You are welcome to bring your baby. Appointments go at their pace.
When to see a doctor
Go to A&E or contact your doctor straight away if you have:
- bleeding that gets heavier, soaking a pad every hour, or large clots;
- fever, chills or foul-smelling discharge;
- a scar that is hot, red, oozing or opening;
- pain, heat or swelling in one leg, shortness of breath or chest pain;
- a severe headache or changes in your vision;
- a red, hot, painful breast with fever;
- loss of bowel control;
- deep sadness, constant anxiety or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. Please ask for help: you are not alone.