A prenatal physiotherapist systematically prepares the expectant mother through teaching the proper birthing positions and specific breathing techniques. Strengthening the pelvic floor and abdomen while at the same time learning how to relax (through "down-training") allows patients to generally have less time spent in labor and decreased chance of having perineal tearing. These sessions help with preparing the mother’s body for the physical requirements of delivery, which facilitates a more efficient process of childbirth, as well as preparation for stress and anxiety related to childbirth, through physical readiness.
Strengthening the pelvic floor has been recognized as a very efficient way of managing and treating stress urinary incontinence, urge incontinence, and also helping the patient regain control over the pelvic floor support system of the bladder and bowel. Rehabilitation takes place through a range of specialized exercises aimed at the target area (for example, performing Kegel exercises and employing biofeedback) which are important for women with involuntary urination or very frequent urination needs; therefore, the woman's confidence levels and the total quality of life of the day might be rated as considerably increased.
Post-natal physiotherapy presents a safe and organized approach to "getting back in shape" with the core stability restoration as the main focus. This is very important in the case of diastasis recti treatment (the division of the abdominal muscles) and in the case of weakened core tissues that can result in chronic lower back or pelvic pain. By means of postural education and progressive exercise, mothers can gradually and safely regain their strength so that they can cover the physical requirements of taking care of a baby—lifting and carrying for instance—without the danger of suffering long-term musculoskeletal injuries.
Besides maternal exercise, this care usually comprises infant massage teaching and providing helpful inputs on neonatal care, which not only strengthens the mother-child connection but also aids the baby's blood and digestive health. For the mother, these interactions relieve her of the physical burden of breastfeeding and sleep depriving her of the night through manual therapy and relaxation techniques. The program, by dealing with the physical and mental aspects of recovery simultaneously, not only makes the transition into motherhood more comfortable but also quickens the return to pre-pregnancy fitness and mobility levels.
