Pregnancy and Childbirth

Pregnancy and Childbirth

Because of the intense strain it puts on your body, pregnancy has been compared to running a marathon — the load you carry is heavy. While your OB-GYN focuses on preventing and treating complications, your physiotherapist helps you support your muscles for more effective pushing, a shorter labor, a lower risk of injury during birth and much more. Whether you are in your first trimester or two weeks from your due date, physiotherapy can make a life-changing difference.
Tuğçe Atalay

Feel Good in Every Trimester

Stay Active During Pregnancy

Throughout pregnancy, your body adapts rapidly under the influence of hormonal changes. During this time, you may notice clear changes in your posture, spine and pelvis. Physiotherapy programs starting in the first trimester help you reduce pain, protect your pelvic floor function and maintain a safe level of physical activity.

Prepare for Birth with Confidence

As your due date approaches, your physiotherapist focuses on preparing you for a comfortable, informed birth experience. The support I provide includes:

  • Exercises that improve the function and flexibility of the pelvic floor muscles

  • Guidance on safe, effective birthing positions and correct pushing techniques

  • Perineal massage to reduce the risk of tearing

  • Pain management and breathing exercises that ease labor

Take Care of Yourself and Your Baby

Every session begins with a detailed assessment of your personal needs and the changes you are going through. How often you come depends on your due date and your individual situation, although many expectant mothers find weekly sessions until birth effective. Together, we can create the plan that suits you and your baby best.

Common and Treatable

50% of pregnant women experience pain. Physiotherapy has been proven to help prevent and treat pregnancy pain, reduce the risk of perineal trauma and shorten labor.

"I feel stabbing pain and pressure in my groin, as if the baby’s whole weight is sitting there."
"I have trouble holding my urine; sometimes I feel like I won’t make it to the toilet."
"My due date is so close, and I don’t know how to push."

Pregnancy and Childbirth FAQ

You can start physiotherapy at any stage of pregnancy. Regular exercise and body awareness work are especially recommended from the second trimester (weeks 13–26). If complaints such as low back and pelvic pain, urinary incontinence or poor posture begin early, physiotherapy can start sooner.

Done with the correct technique, pelvic floor exercises improve bladder control, make birth easier and speed up postpartum recovery. However, because excessive contraction and tension can also cause problems, it is important to do them under a physiotherapist’s guidance.

Yes. With the right breathing techniques, pelvic floor awareness, relaxation work and suitable positions, labor can be more controlled and comfortable. Perineal massage can also reduce the risk of tearing and episiotomy during birth.

Yes. After a C-section, physiotherapy helps speed up tissue healing, strengthen the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor and restore postural balance. Rather than staying immobile after surgery, improving circulation with suitable exercises supports recovery.

Pain can be reduced with posture correction, suitable exercise (Pilates, aquatic therapy, etc.), breath awareness techniques and, when needed, manual therapy. In daily life, it is also important to avoid standing for too long and lifting heavy objects.

Proper breathing techniques help ensure your baby gets enough oxygen and help you relax during labor. They also maintain the balance between the diaphragm and pelvic floor, which can make birth more controlled.

Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, Pilates and pelvic floor awareness exercises are recommended safe activities. Still, you should get expert guidance to check whether each exercise is suitable for your pregnancy.

Groin pain can result from the growing uterus, loosening ligaments and the widening pelvis. Gentle stretching, rest, warm compresses and support belts can ease this pain.

Tuğçe Atalay

Author: , Specialist Physiotherapist

Last updated:

The information on this page is for general information only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your doctor and physiotherapist about your symptoms.

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