There are many components that make up a Mummy Wellness Programme such as: –

• Exercise and Fitness – Programs like yoga, pilates, and tailored fitness routines to maintain health and manage pregnancy-related changes.
• Education – Sessions on childbirth education, breastfeeding, and infant care to prepare mothers for the journey ahead.
• Counselling – Access to mental health professionals to address issues like postpartum depression and anxiety.
• Nutrition – Guidance on healthy eating habits during and after pregnancy for healthy weight management and adequate nutrition for mother and baby.

Programmes like these are crucial because pregnant and postpartum women often experience numerous physical changes and complaints that are sometimes deemed “normal.” This situation is further complicated by the many taboos surrounding sexual health, pregnancy, and postpartum topics, which hinder open discussion. As a result, many women are unaware that their issues can be treated and managed effectively.

Mummy Wellness Physiotherapy is provided by a Physiotherapist with appropriate training. Here is an in-depth look at what Mummy Wellness Physiotherapy may entail:

Prenatal Physiotherapy

During pregnancy, the body changes to accommodate the growing baby. These changes will include secretion of the hormone Relaxin which helps ligaments to become more elastic to allow the joints of the pelvis to expand with the growing baby. There may also be a loss of the muscle tone and strength of the abdominal and core muscles. This coupled with the altered spinal and pelvic alignment as the pelvis tilts forward with increasing abdominal size, can lead to low back and pelvic girdle pain conditions. Lower extremity swelling is also common due to changes in circulation. Other complaints may include carpal tunnel syndrome, upper back pain and pain under the rib cage. Some components of Prenatal Physiotherapy include: –

• Exercise Programs: Physiotherapists design exercise programs to prevent or treat musculoskeletal issues, improve posture, and prepare women for labour through relaxation techniques. This is done in a safe way that supports the changing body structure and energy demands.
• Pain Management: Physiotherapists use various techniques to alleviate common pregnancy-related discomforts such as back pain and pelvic pain. This may include massage, stretches, acupuncture and kinesio-taping.
• Education: They educate expectant mothers on proper posture, lifestyle modifications, and techniques to manage common discomforts like back pain, swelling, stress and anxiety. This may also include information on expected changes within the body as the baby grows and develops.
• Pregnancy Massage: Massage therapy can help decrease back pain and improve lower extremity circulation.
• Preparation for Labor: Techniques such as breathing exercises and relaxation methods are taught to help women during labour.

Postnatal Physiotherapy

Following childbirth, most women are at risk of developing issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis rectus abdominis and back pain. This is due to the weakening of muscles and stretching of ligaments associated with pregnancy as mentioned above. These issues can be assessed and addressed with Postnatal Physiotherapy which can help with:

• Restoring Muscle Strength: Exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles, which are often weakened during pregnancy and childbirth.
• Pain Relief: Treatments for perineal pain, painful sex, caesarean section recovery, and other postnatal discomforts.
• Posture and Baby Care: Advice on proper posture while breastfeeding and carrying the baby to prevent musculoskeletal issues.

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

Pelvic health is a crucial aspect of Mummy Wellness Physiotherapy. It includes:

• Assessment and treatment: Assessment and treatment of pelvic floor issues, which can lead to urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and pelvic pain.
• Education and Exercises: Techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve overall pelvic health.

Mummy Wellness Physiotherapy is a comprehensive approach to supporting mothers through the physical and emotional challenges of pregnancy and motherhood. By focusing on physical health, mental well-being, and mother-child bonding, these programs help mothers navigate the journey of motherhood with confidence and joy and avoid many of the complications which can occur further down the road.