Physio during pregnancy

Common problems in pregnancy

• Lower back pain: often from changes in posture, weight and ligament flexibility
• Pelvic girdle pain: pain at the front or back of the pelvis, often when walking, rolling in bed or climbing stairs
• Pelvic floor changes: leaking urine when you cough or sneeze, or feelings of heaviness
• Rib, hip and leg aches: from the growing baby and changes in how you move
• Carpal tunnel symptoms: tingling or numbness in the hands

These problems are common, but common does not mean you have to put up with them. Treatment can often help.

Talk to your doctor or midwife first

Some symptoms need urgent medical attention and are not a job for physio. Contact your doctor, midwife or hospital straight away if you have:

• Vaginal bleeding, or fluid leaking from the vagina
• Severe or constant abdominal pain
• Reduced movements of your baby
• A severe headache, vision changes or sudden swelling of the face or hands
• Pain, swelling or redness in one calf, or sudden shortness of breath
• Fever with back pain

If you are unsure whether something is normal, it is always fine to call and ask.

How a physio can help

• Explain what is causing your pain and what is safe to do
• Hands-on treatment such as gentle massage or joint techniques, where suitable
• Exercises to keep your back, hips and legs strong and comfortable
• Advice on sleeping positions, lifting, work and daily tasks
• Support belts or other aids, if they suit you
• Pelvic floor assessment and training, including how to do pelvic floor exercises correctly
• Birth preparation, such as positions and breathing, and a plan for recovery afterwards

Pelvic floor care

The pelvic floor muscles support your bladder, bowel and uterus, and they work harder in pregnancy. Many women are unsure whether they are doing pelvic floor exercises correctly. A women’s health physio can check this and tailor a program, before and after birth. Browse clinics that treat pregnancy and pelvic floor to find one near you.

After the baby arrives

Physio can also help after birth. Common reasons include pelvic floor recovery, abdominal muscle separation, back and neck pain from feeding and lifting, and a gradual return to exercise. Your doctor or midwife will tell you when it is safe to start, and a physio can build a plan to match how you feel.

Is exercise safe?

For most healthy pregnancies, regular, moderate exercise is encouraged. It can help with back pain, sleep and mood. Your doctor or midwife can tell you if there is any reason to avoid or change it, and a physio can tailor movements to your stage of pregnancy.

Cost and referrals

You do not usually need a referral to see a physio, and many private health extras policies include a rebate. Fees differ between clinics, so ask when you book. See our referral guide and cost guide.

Questions to ask a physio

• Do you have training or experience in pregnancy and women’s health?
• What will my first appointment involve?
• Can you assess my pelvic floor, and is it done internally or externally?
• What can I do at home between visits?
• How much does it cost, and can you claim my rebate on the spot?

Common questions

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or physio about your own situation.