Do I Really Need a Postnatal Check If Everything Feels Fine?

One of the most common things I hear from new mums is:

"I don't have any major problems, so I'm not sure I need a postnatal check."

The reality is that many postpartum issues can be present long before symptoms become obvious.

As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who are returning to running, lifting weights, or simply getting back to normal life, only to discover that their body isn't recovering quite as well as they thought.

What Happens During Pregnancy and Birth?

Pregnancy and childbirth place significant demands on the body.

Whether you have a vaginal birth or a caesarean section, changes can occur to:

• The pelvic floor muscles

• Abdominal muscles

• Core strength and function

• Scar tissue

• Bladder and bowel function

• Pelvic organ support

Many women assume that if they are not leaking urine or experiencing pain, everything must be fine. However, this is not always the case.

Common Issues Women Don't Realise Are Related to Childbirth

You may benefit from an assessment if you experience:

• A feeling of heaviness or pressure vaginally

• Difficulty returning to exercise

• Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or running

• Ongoing abdominal separation (diastasis recti)

• Pain during intercourse

• Lower back, pelvic, or hip pain

• Persistent caesarean scar tightness or numbness

• Difficulty activating your core muscles

Sometimes these symptoms don't appear until months or even years after birth.

Why Have a Postnatal Assessment?

A postnatal assessment provides an opportunity to:

• Assess pelvic floor function• Check abdominal muscle recovery

• Screen for prolapse

• Assess caesarean scar mobility

• Discuss return to exercise

• Address bladder and bowel concerns

• Provide individualised rehabilitation advice

Many women tell me they wish they had come sooner.

When Should I Book?

It's never too early or too late.

Many women attend around six weeks postpartum, while others come months or even years later.

Recovery continues well beyond the newborn period, and there is always something we can do to improve function, confidence, and comfort.

How Can We Help?

At Bump and Beyond Physio in Takapuna, I provide comprehensive pregnancy and postnatal assessments designed specifically for women.

Whether you're preparing to return to running, struggling with symptoms, or simply wanting reassurance that your recovery is on track, I'd love to help.

Book online or get in touch to discuss whether a postnatal assessment is right for you.