PRENATAL & POSTNATAL PHYSIOTHERAPY SINGAPORE
What Is Prenatal Physiotherapy?
Prenatal physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy that focuses on the health and well-being of women throughout all stages of their pregnancy journey from preconception and pregnancy.
Prenatal physiotherapy includes educational and informative support, as well as varying exercise programs such as pelvic floor muscle exercises (Kegels), core and abdominal strengthening, stretching, and low-impact activities like prenatal Pilates and hydrotherapy and more.
At PhysioMatters we educate and treat women from 35 weeks onwards (with their Doctors medical clearance) on Perineal Massage. This is soft tissue releasing of the perineum in preparation for birth.
Recent studies suggest Perineal Massage may reduce the risk of perineal tearing and possible episiotomy by up to 60% in women, in the final stage of birthing.
Our prenatal physiotherapy programs are individualised - we do not take a “one size fit all approach” at PhysioMatters. We work in an allied health team approach and will ensure YOUR birth plan is valued.
How Does Prenatal Physiotherapy Help Pregnant Ladies?
Prenatal physiotherapy supports YOU during the physiological and emotional changes your will experience during your pregnancy journey. You may experience muscle pain, back ache, pelvic girdle pain and or instability, as well as bladder and or bowel changes. Commonly bladder leakage and urinary frequency and or constipation are often experienced by women prenatally.
Our physiotherapists are qualified and registered here in Singapore and Internationally, with years of experience to assess and treat your concerns.
Treating any pregnancy concerns early is always advantageous in reducing emotional stress (anxiety and worry) as well as ensuring you stay active and enjoy your pregnancy.
Numerous physiotherapy techniques and treatment approaches do not require any internal vaginal assessment. We use Real Time Ultrasound Imagery (which is included in our consultations and treatments at no additional cost to you) to assess your muscles such as your pelvic floor muscles, abdominal and back muscles, providing you with an evidence based exercise program and advice to suit your needs.
Often our pregnancy journeys can be stressful for many women, learning stress relieving techniques such as simple daily breathing exercise and relaxation strategies to reduce stress and anxiety, promoting overall mental well-being is valuable.
Research shows that engaging in regular and a tailored breathing awareness and exercise program during prenatal and pregnancy journey can lead to better outcomes during labour and lower the risk of complications.
By improving physical fitness, prenatal physiotherapy facilitates a healthier pregnancy and smoother transition into the postnatal period.
What Is Postnatal Physiotherapy?
Postnatal physiotherapy is a specialised area of physiotherapy that focuses on supporting mothers in their recovery after childbirth.
Many changes occur in your body when pregnant due to your hormonal changes, your baby's position in utero, postural changes and so much more.
At PhysioMatters our physiotherapists have post graduate qualifications and are passionate about treating our clients both pre and post natal. It's wonderful to be part of our clients journey from preconception, pregnancy and post delivery.
To outline a few of the areas we often focus our treatments in, they are as follows but not limited to: Diastasis Recti recovery (abdominal separation or otherwise known as ‘Mummy Pouch’), pelvic floor muscle exercises, core and floor strengthening, pelvic and or perineal pain, caesarean section pain, posture correction and breast management for blocked, engorged and or Mastitis.
How Does Postnatal Physiotherapy Help?
Postnatal physiotherapy is a critical component in your recovery process following childbirth. Physiotherapy facilitates the restoration of strength, flexibility and functionality.
As Women's Health Physiotherapists we are often the first Allied Health professional our clients see after giving birth. We often are the first link to your Allied health team, to ensure you have the care you need both physically and emotionally.
Women's Health Physiotherapists for postnatal recovery primarily focuses on backs, breast, bellies and below. Pelvic Floor Muscle re-education, and straightening, Diastatsis Recti (Abdominal Separation), pelvic girdle and musculoskeletal pain, which can arise due to the physical stresses of pregnancy and delivery. Dyspareunia and or Vaginsmsus (pain with sex) and or returning to sexual activities is often a concern for ladies postnatally.
We use non invasive and pain free modalities and techniques such as Therapeutic Ultrasound, massage and or taping to treat any breast blockage due to milk supply (high or low supply) , blocked ducts, engorgement and or Mastitis. These modalities alleviate discomfort / pain with breastfeeding, may promote milk supply and encourage more efficient pain free breastfeeding.
Postnatal physiotherapy is all about empowering YOU as a new mum to be physically and emotionally strong and healthy, as well as to support you with the daily challenges of being a mum. It is a welcomed privilege to be part of your support tribe.
Common Physical Problems During And After Pregnancy
Prenatal
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Neck and Back Pain: Often associated with hormonal changes, posture changes and increased changes in your body weight.
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Pelvic Pain: Discomfort in the pelvic, hip and sacral areas due to hormones, posture and ligament stretching.
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Sciatica: Nerve pain that can occur from pressure on the sciatic nerve.
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Swelling (Oedema): Common in hands, legs and feet due to fluid retention.
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Heartburn and Acid Reflux: Resulting from hormonal changes and pressure from the growing baby.
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Fatigue: Increased tiredness from physical and hormonal changes.
Postnatal
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Pelvic Floor Muscle Dysfunction: Bladder and or bowel concerns - Incontinence, leakage, constipation, frequency and more ...
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Diastasis Recti: Separation of Abdominal muscles.
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Back and Neck Pain: Due to poor posture while breastfeeding or carrying the baby.
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Joint Pain: Particularly in the hips and knees as the body adjusts after childbirth.
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Fatigue: Exacerbated by the demands of caring for a newborn.
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Breast Pain: Discomfort from breastfeeding, blocked ducts or engorgement. Mastitis
Why Choose PhysioMatters
Expert Care, Years of Experience and Highly Qualified Physiotherapists
Danielle Barratt and Xan are qualified and registered Physiotherapists both in Singapore and Internationally. They have years of experience at Senior level and numerous qualifications in prenatal and postnatal care. They treat every client as an individual and will ensure your needs are addressed and treated.
Holistic Healing for You and Baby
We focus on your overall well-being, providing support that nurtures both your physical and emotional health, helping you feel your best for you and your little one.
Empowerment Through Knowledge
Our team at PhysioMatters not only educate you about your body but also give you the tools to feel confident and empowered throughout your pregnancy and beyond.
Collaborative Care for You
We work closely with your Allied Health Team - Obstetrician, midwife, Doula and Paediatrician to ensure you receive comprehensive care that prioritises your health and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prenatal Physiotherapy
Q: What Should I Wear For Prenatal & Postnatal Physiotherapy?
A: Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement, such as leggings or loose-fitting tops. Supportive footwear is also recommended.
Q: When Is A Good Time To Start Prenatal Physiotherapy?
A: You can start prenatal physiotherapy at any stage of your conception (planning phase), pregnancy, ideally in the first trimester but at ANY stage of your pregnancy journey.
Q: What Is The Importance Of Prenatal Exercise?
A:Prenatal exercise helps alleviate discomforts, improves strength and flexibility, supports mental well-being, and prepares your body for labour.
Q: What Treatment Can I Expect As Part Of My Prenatal Care?
A; Expect a combination of exercises, posture education, breathing techniques, and manual therapy tailored to your needs.Educational material and lots of information for you to take home and read later on.
Q: How Long Do I Have To Commit to a Prenatal Programme?
A:As long as you like! But typically, a regular programme of 6 to 12 weeks is recommended for significant benefits.
Q: How Many Weeks Must I Be Before I Can Start These Sessions?
A: You can begin prenatal physiotherapy as early as the first trimester.We recommend after your first ultrasound around the 9-12 weeks of your pregnancy. Prior to conception please come in for assessment or treatment at any stage of your fertility journey.
Postnatal Physiotherapy
Q:What Should I Wear For Postnatal Physiotherapy?
A: Wear comfortable clothing that allows for movement, such as activewear, and consider a supportive nursing bra if breastfeeding.
Q: When Is A Good Time To Start Postnatal Physiotherapy?
A: If you have any pain come in any time post delivery - perineum, pelvic or caesarean scar pain. Musculoskeletal - neck backs or lower lib, upper limb, hand or wrist pain. Breast Engorgement or blocked duct, Mastitis - Come in sooner rather than later - Any Time!
Postnatal routine abdominal and pelvic floor muscle check we recommend any time from 3- 6 weeks . Often women choose to come in if they have no pain or concerns at the 6 weeks after delivery as it takes 6- 8 weeks for YOUR uterus to recover in size.
Please check if you intend to charge your Insurance policy, that you have a GP referral or approval from your healthcare provider.
Q: What Is The Importance Of Postnatal Exercise?
A: Postnatal exercise aids in recovery, strengthens core and pelvic floor muscles, improves posture, and helps manage stress and fatigue.
Q: What Treatment Can I Expect As Part Of My Postnatal Care?
A: Expect a tailored programme that may include pelvic floor exercises, core strengthening, and posture correction.
Q: How Long Do I Have To Commit To A Postnatal Programme?
A: A commitment of 6 to 12 weeks is often recommended, but this can vary based on individual needs.
Q: How Many Weeks After Birth Before I Can Start These Sessions?
A: If you have any pain come in any time post delivery - perineum, pelvic or caesarean scar pain. Musculoskeletal - neck backs or lower lib, upper limb, hand or wrist pain. Breast Engorgement or blocked duct, Mastitis - Come in sooner rather than later - Any Time!
Otherwise we recommend typically beginning postnatal physiotherapy around 6 weeks postpartum, though consulting with your healthcare provider is essential.
Take the First Step Towards
Prenatal & Postnatal Physiotherapy
At PhysioMatters, we are committed to helping you achieve optimal health during and after pregnancy. Our comprehensive approach to physiotherapy during pregnancy ensures that you receive the highest quality care and support throughout your treatments with us.
Don’t let prenatal and postnatal pregnancy discomfort hold you back – contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you.