Stronger, Smoother, Supported: Why Pelvic Floor PT is a Must During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is an incredible journey, but let’s be real—it can also be tough on your body. As your baby grows, your pelvic floor muscles work overtime to support the extra weight, keep your bladder in check, and prepare for delivery. That’s why seeing a pelvic floor physical therapist (PFPT) during pregnancy can be a game-changer. Whether you're hoping for a smoother labor, dealing with discomfort, or just wanting to feel stronger, pelvic floor PT can help you stay ahead of potential issues and set you up for success postpartum.
What Does the Pelvic Floor Do During Pregnancy?
Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of your pelvis that supports your bladder, uterus, and bowels. These muscles help with:
✅ Holding in urine (no one wants to pee when they sneeze!)
✅ Supporting your growing belly and baby
✅ Helping your core stay strong and stable
✅ Playing a role in labor and delivery (yep, they help push!)
During pregnancy, these muscles are under more pressure than usual, which can lead to issues like leaking, pain, or weakness. That’s where pelvic floor PT comes in.
Why Should You See a Pelvic Floor PT While Pregnant?
Many people think pelvic floor therapy is just for postpartum recovery, but starting during pregnancy can help prevent problems before they start. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
1. Prevent Leaking & Strengthen Your Core
If you’re already peeing a little when you laugh or sneeze, know that this isn’t just “part of pregnancy” you have to accept. A pelvic floor PT can help strengthen (or relax) the right muscles to prevent urinary leakage and keep your core engaged as your belly grows.
2. Reduce Pain & Pressure
Pelvic pain, lower back pain, and a heavy, pressure-like feeling “down there” are all common in pregnancy—but they don’t have to be. A PT can help you improve your posture, teach you safe exercises, and release tight muscles to keep you comfortable.
3. Prepare for Labor & Delivery
Your pelvic floor needs to be strong but also flexible for childbirth. Learning how to properly relax your pelvic floor can make pushing more effective and potentially reduce your risk of tearing. Your therapist can guide you through breathing techniques, perineal massage, and positioning strategies to help you feel confident for birth.
4. Speed Up Postpartum Recovery
The stronger and more balanced your pelvic floor is before birth, the easier it will be to recover afterward. Seeing a PT during pregnancy can help reduce the chances of severe diastasis recti (ab separation) and make postpartum healing smoother.
5. Stay Active Without Pain
If you want to keep exercising but feel discomfort in your hips, back, or pelvis, a pelvic floor PT can modify movements so you can stay active safely. They’ll help you adjust your workouts as your pregnancy progresses.
What to Expect at a Pelvic Floor PT Session
If you’ve never been to pelvic floor PT before, don’t worry—it’s not as intimidating as it sounds! Your first session will include:
🔹 A chat about your symptoms, pregnancy experience, and goals.
🔹 A posture and movement assessment to see how your body is adapting to pregnancy.
🔹 Gentle exercises or manual therapy to improve muscle function and comfort.
🔹 Education on proper breathing, core engagement, and labor prep techniques.
Some therapists may offer an internal exam, but this is completely optional and only if you’re comfortable with it.
When Should You Start Pelvic Floor PT?
You can start at any point in pregnancy, but many people begin in the second or third trimester when they start noticing more physical changes. Even if you’re close to your due date, a few sessions can still help!
Ready to Feel Strong & Supported?
Pregnancy doesn’t have to mean dealing with leaks, pain, or weakness. Pelvic floor physical therapy can help you feel your best now and set you up for a smoother postpartum recovery.
If you’re in the Cambridge area, Mobility PT has experienced pelvic floor specialists ready to guide you through pregnancy and beyond. Book a session today and give your body the support it deserves!
