A Performance-Based Guide | HER x FX Physical Therapy
Pelvic floor physical therapy isn’t just for after pregnancy; it’s essential before, during, and long after.
At FX Physical Therapy, our HER program (Health. Empowerment. Recovery.) takes a performance-based approach to pelvic health, helping women prepare for pregnancy, stay strong during it, and recover fully postpartum.
Whether you’re planning for pregnancy, currently pregnant, or navigating postpartum recovery, this guide breaks down how pelvic floor physical therapy supports you at every stage.
Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Matters
The pelvic floor is a critical part of your core system—supporting:
- Bladder and bowel control
- Core stability and strength
- Hip and spine function
- Athletic performance and return to exercise
During pregnancy and postpartum, this system undergoes significant stress and change, often leading to:
- Urinary leakage
- Pelvic pressure or heaviness
- Low back or hip pain
- Core weakness or instability
Pelvic floor physical therapy helps restore strength, coordination, and full-body function—so you can move confidently again.
Pre-Pregnancy: Build Strength Before Pregnancy
Preparing your body before pregnancy can significantly improve outcomes during and after.
At FX Physical Therapy, pre-pregnancy pelvic floor therapy focuses on:
- Pelvic floor strength and coordination assessment
- Core stability and breathing mechanics
- Hip and trunk strength development
- Pressure management for lifting and exercise
A stronger foundation going into pregnancy leads to fewer symptoms and a more efficient postpartum recovery.
Pregnancy: Stay Strong and Active
Pregnancy doesn’t mean stopping activity: it means adapting it.
Common symptoms we treat include:
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Sciatica and low back pain
- Urinary leakage
- Core instability
Pelvic floor physical therapy during pregnancy includes:
- Safe strength training modifications
- Pelvic floor coordination and relaxation
- Pain management through manual therapy and movement
- Labor and delivery preparation, including pushing mechanics and positioning
Addressing symptoms early helps reduce postpartum complications and supports a smoother recovery.
Early Postpartum (0–6 Weeks): Restore and Reconnect
The first six weeks postpartum are focused on healing – not rushing back to exercise.
Pelvic floor physical therapy supports:
- Gentle core and pelvic floor activation
- Breathing and nervous system regulation
- Education on lifting, feeding, and daily movement
- Monitoring symptoms such as pain, pressure, or leakage
While some symptoms may be common early on, they should improve over time—not persist.
Postpartum Recovery (6–12 Weeks): Rebuild Strength and Control
Being “cleared” by your provider does not mean your body is fully ready.
At this stage, pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on:
- Restoring core and pelvic floor coordination
- Progressive strength training
- Scar tissue mobility for C-section or perineal healing
- Movement retraining for daily activities and workouts
This phase is critical for preventing long-term dysfunction and setting the foundation for higher-level activity.
Return to Exercise (3–6+ Months): Build Back Performance
Returning to running, lifting, or high-impact activity too soon can lead to ongoing symptoms.
Pelvic floor physical therapy helps guide a safe return through:
- Strength and endurance progression
- Return-to-run and impact readiness testing
- Load management strategies
- Addressing symptoms like leakage, heaviness, or pain
The goal is to restore your ability to train, lift, and perform without limitations.
Long-Term Postpartum (6–12+ Months and Beyond): Strength for Life
Postpartum recovery doesn’t end at six months—or even a year.
Many women continue to experience symptoms months or years after giving birth, often assuming it’s normal.
Pelvic floor physical therapy can still:
- Improve bladder control
- Reduce pelvic pain or pressure
- Enhance strength and performance
- Prevent future injury
It’s never too late to address pelvic floor dysfunction and optimize how your body performs.
The FX Physical Therapy Difference
At FX Physical Therapy, we go beyond traditional pelvic floor rehab.
Our model includes:
- 1-on-1 care with a Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Hands-on manual therapy
- Performance-based strength and conditioning
- Individualized return-to-activity programming
We don’t just treat symptoms—we help you build strength, resilience, and long-term performance.
When Should You Start Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
- Before pregnancy to build a strong foundation
- During pregnancy to stay active and manage symptoms
- After birth to restore function and rebuild strength
- Anytime postpartum to address symptoms and improve performance
If something feels off, it’s worth getting evaluated.
Start Your Pelvic Health Journey
Pelvic floor physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to support your body through pregnancy and beyond.
At FX Physical Therapy, our HER program is designed to help you:
- Move without pain
- Restore strength and confidence
- Return to the activities you love
Start Your Postpartum Recovery Today
