Pre- and postnatal physical therapy

During your pregnancy, your body undergoes many changes that affect your posture, movement, balance, muscle strength and breathing. Physical therapy can help prepare your body for childbirth or achieve a smooth recovery after delivery. Exercises can bring relief if you suffer from certain physical complaints.

Plan your appointment

For outpatient appointments 011 69 93 67 For an appointment with the rehabilitation physician 011 69 95 60

What is it

Perinatal physical therapy is the umbrella name that encompasses pre- and postnatal physical therapy, in short, physical therapy before and after childbirth. Prenatal physical therapy aims to raise awareness of physical changes during pregnancy, encourage exercise, prepare for childbirth, treat specific complaints such as pelvic pain, pelvic floor problems,... Postnatal physical therapy focuses on treatment of residual complaints, pelvic floor rehabilitation, strengthening abdominal and back muscles, and building fitness.

Prenatal

You can take prenatal physical therapy from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Different types of exercises and education are covered during these sessions.

For example, there is a focus on ergonomics with tips for household, daily activities and work. It is important to exercise the pelvic floor muscles that lose strength and endurance during pregnancy to avoid incontinence. To ensure smooth labor, different postures and breathing exercises are taught to accommodate contractions. Proper pressing technique and pressing posture are taught. Relaxation techniques can ease discomfort during pregnancy and labor. At the last session, your partner is also welcome so they can properly assist you during labor and delivery.

Read more about what to expect during your pregnancy through the link below.

Pregnancy

Postnatal

During your hospitalization, the physical therapist will visit you to give a one-time education on pelvic floor muscles and postures. The pelvic floor muscles are put under extra strain during pregnancy and partially lose their support and closing function. By starting with exercises immediately, these can become stronger again and the risk of incontinence and prolapse of bladder, uterus and bowels later in life is reduced. During this educational moment, there will also be room to ask questions of your own.

After six weeks, postnatal physical therapy can be followed with your private physical therapist. After a cesarean section, it is best to wait eight weeks. The exercises ensure a smooth recovery after delivery and bring your condition back to normal.

Read more below about what to expect during and after the birth of your baby:

Childbirth
After childbirth