Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness
Pregnancy & Postnatal Conditions
Physical changes and symptoms affecting the body during and after birth.
Understanding pregnancy and postnatal changes
During pregnancy and after birth, the body undergoes changes to muscles, joints, connective tissues, and the pelvic floor. Symptoms can develop during pregnancy, after delivery, or continue beyond the early postnatal period.
Some conditions are clearly linked to pregnancy or childbirth, while others overlap with pelvic health more generally. This page provides an overview of common pregnancy and postnatal conditions and the symptoms associated with them.
Condition Overview
Pregnancy and postnatal conditions can present in different ways. Below are some of the most common issues and symptoms that may arise during pregnancy or after birth.
Pelvic Girdle Pain
Pain around the pelvis, hips, lower back, or pubic area during pregnancy. Symptoms may worsen with walking, turning in bed, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg, and can sometimes continue after birth.
Incontinence
Bladder or bowel leakage, urgency, or difficulty holding on during pregnancy or after birth. Symptoms may occur with coughing, sneezing, exercise, or when there is a sudden need to go to the toilet.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
A feeling of heaviness, pressure, or dragging in the vaginal area following pregnancy or childbirth. Symptoms may be more noticeable with standing, lifting, or towards the end of the day.
Diastasis Recti (Abdominal Separation)
A separation of the abdominal muscles that can develop during or after pregnancy. This may affect how the abdomen looks or feels and can be associated with reduced core control or changes in movement.
Caesarean Section (C-Section) Related Symptoms
Following a caesarean birth, symptoms may include discomfort or tightness around the scar, altered sensation such as numbness or sensitivity, pain, or a feeling of reduced strength or support through the abdomen.
Postnatal Tears & Birth Injuries
Vaginal birth can involve tearing or instrumental delivery, with varying degrees of severity. Symptoms may include pain, sensitivity, discomfort around scar tissue, or changes in pelvic floor control after birth.
Back & Hip Pain (Pregnancy & Postnatal)
Pain in the lower back, hips, or buttocks during pregnancy or after birth. Symptoms may be linked to postural changes, joint loading, movement patterns, or muscle support.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (Pregnancy and Postnatal)
Changes in pelvic floor muscle strength, coordination, or tension during pregnancy or after birth. This may contribute to symptoms such as incontinence, pelvic discomfort, or feelings of reduced support.
Postnatal Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain following childbirth that may affect sitting, movement, daily activities, or comfort. Symptoms can be ongoing or intermittent and may involve muscles, joints, scar tissue, or pelvic floor structures.
Not sure which condition fits best?
Pregnancy and postnatal symptoms often overlap, and it’s common to experience more than one issue at the same time. Symptoms may also change as your body recovers. You don’t need to know exactly what the problem is to take the next step.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re experiencing symptoms during pregnancy or after birth, you can book a Pregnancy MOT or Postnatal MOT to discuss your concerns and explore appropriate next steps. Appointments are available at the clinic in Winscombe.
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Thrive and Shine Women's Wellness Studio
Corner House
Woodborough Road
Winscombe
BS25 1AQ
07862620259
Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness provides Physiotherapy, Pilates, menopause support, and remedial hypnosis / CONTROL method for women across Winscombe, Weston-super-Mare, Cheddar, Axbridge, and North Somerset.
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