Postnatal MOT

We encourage all women to book a Mummy MOT following pregnancy and delivery to have their tummy and pelvic floor muscle function assessed, because pregnancy, as well as  the delivery (regardless of the delivery method), puts pressure on the pelvic floor (the muscles that support our pelvic organs and control our front and back passages). A postnatal physiotherapy assessment will measure and establish a considered graded return to exercise. We can help you to manage your expectations and guide you to strategically strengthen and load your tissue. The most optimal time to come is around 6 weeks, although if your pregnancy was 6 years ago or longer, it is never too late! If you have any concerns, we of course are happy to see you before 6 weeks or talk to you for some early advice. We have been running Postnatal MOT's since 2010, it is now a very popular service recommended by friends, daughters, mothers, fitness coaches, GP's, doula's as well as gynaecologists. 

In our postnatal physiotherapy assessments we will check and explain:

• Why the abdominal wall and your breathing pattern matters
• What the pelvic floor is and signs when things aren’t working so well. We will assess internally to make sure your contraction is effective, check any trauma and that there are no signs of pelvic organ prolapse
• What rectus abdominis diastasis (separation) is and check it
• Why nutrition, sleep and community are important to your recovery
• How to strategically plan your return to exercise and manage any risks
• Provide you with some exercise ideas for the gym or at home

A postnatal MOT consists of a one-hour session of thorough internal assesment of the pelvic floor muscles and structures as well as an abdominal wall assessment. We also provide advice on considered return to exercise and general advice for prevention of any problems that may arise.

One of the most common question asked at  our postnatal MOT’s is ‘When is it ok to start exercising?’ In short, there is no 1 answer to this that will be right for everyone; our response depends entirely on how you are in recovery, your birth, any risk factors, your general health and fitness, your bladder and bowel control, any pain, heaviness or dragging sensations. We will assess you individually when you come to see us and provide specific advice regarding the load that your pelvic floor and abdominals can cope with. In some parts our advice is simple and the same for everyone; listen to your body, pace yourself and make sure you get plenty of rest.

Our women's health team is super friendly and full of expertise, we are happy to anwer any questions you might have.