Pelvic Floor Health After Childbirth: A Practical Guide

Many women accept pelvic floor symptoms after childbirth as "just part of being a mum". They should not be. Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze or run, a feeling of heaviness or bulging, or reduced sensation during intimacy — these are common, but they are treatable, and they are worth taking seriously.

This guide is intended for education. A personal consultation is the only way to plan the right care for you.

What the pelvic floor actually does

The pelvic floor is a hammock of muscles supporting the bladder, uterus and bowel. Pregnancy, vaginal birth, ageing and menopause can weaken it. When it weakens, symptoms follow.

Common symptoms to look out for

• Stress incontinence — leaking when coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercising.
• Urgency — sudden strong need to pass urine.
• Heaviness or bulging — a sense of "something coming down" (prolapse).
• Reduced sensation during intimacy.
• Lower back or pelvic discomfort that is hard to explain.

None of these are things you have to live with.

What helps — from simple to specialist

1. Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels), performed correctly and consistently.
2. Postural and breathing work — the pelvic floor works with the diaphragm.
3. Weight management and hydration — often overlooked but genuinely effective.
4. Specialist pelvic floor physiotherapy.
5. Non-surgical treatments where indicated.
6. Surgical repair for prolapse or persistent incontinence when conservative care is not enough.

An honest assessment starts with the simplest measures and only escalates when needed.

When to seek help

If symptoms persist beyond 3–6 months postnatally, or if they are affecting your daily life, do not wait. Care is confidential, effective, and — importantly — nothing to be embarrassed about.

Speak to Dr Berra

You can book a private video consultation from anywhere in the UK, or start with a confidential personal assessment.