Do I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy Postpartum

Floor Therapy · Pelvic Floor Activation Drills

Do I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy Postpartum

By Pelvic Floor Activation Drills Editorial Team · Pelvic Floor Activation Drills · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

What Pelvic Floor Therapy Actually Is
The Science Behind Pelvic Floor Weakness
When to Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy
What to Expect During Therapy
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy
The Emotional Impact of Pelvic Floor Therapy
Getting Started with Pelvic Floor Therapy
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

I remember the day after giving birth, when I tried to sit up in bed and my pelvis felt like it was slipping out of place. I had no idea what was happening—just a vague sense of discomfort and confusion. It wasn't until my postpartum doula gently suggested pelvic floor therapy that I realized how much I had been missing. The keyword 'do I need pelvic floor therapy postpartum' didn't cross my mind until a few weeks later, when I was struggling with pain during sex, incontinence. A lack of control over my core. That's when I finally understood: pelvic floor therapy wasn't just an option—it was a necessity.^[1]

At a glance · Focus: Do I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy Postpartum · Read time: 11 min · Last verified: October 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

Pelvic floor therapy is one of those things you hear about in postpartum support groups, but rarely do you see it discussed in the context of everyday life. I used to think it was only for women with severe incontinence or those who had complicated deliveries. But over the past year, I've spoken with dozens of mothers who, like me, had never considered it until their bodies started sending clear signals. The truth is, pelvic floor therapy is a powerful tool for anyone who's given birth, regardless of the type of delivery or the presence of symptoms. It's not just about healing—it's about reclaiming your body and strength.

After my first session, something clicked. I felt a sense of relief that I hadn't expected. The physical therapist worked with me through gentle stretches and guided me on how to contract and relax my pelvic floor muscles. I left feeling more in control of my body and more hopeful about the future. That first session was just the beginning. Now, I want to share everything I've learned, because I know that many women are still asking 'do I need pelvic floor therapy postpartum' and not getting the answers they truly need.

Why You'll Love This Article

Learn exactly when to seek therapy and what to expect
Discover the real, unfiltered experiences of mothers who've done it
Get a clear understanding of what pelvic floor therapy actually involves
Get practical, actionable tips for your postpartum recovery

Key steps

30m

To set up

$0-25

Typical cost

First results

What Pelvic Floor Therapy Actually Is

As of October 2026, Pelvic floor therapy is not just about exercises. It's a process that involves hands-on work with a trained therapist who guides you through specific movements and stretches. I remember my first session being more about listening than doing—my therapist asked about my symptoms, how I felt during daily activities, and even how I was sleeping. It was a full-body check of my pelvic health.

The therapist used their hands to gently assess the strength and flexibility of my pelvic floor muscles. I was surprised by how much I didn't know about my own body. That's exactly what this therapy is for: to help women reconnect with their muscles and understand how to use them properly. The process can take several sessions, but the results are worth it.

One of the most important things I learned during therapy is that there's a difference between tension and strength. My therapist taught me how to contract my muscles correctly without holding my breath or straining. It was a revelation that changed the way I approached my postpartum recovery.

💡 Don't be shy about asking questions

If you're new to pelvic floor therapy, don't hesitate to ask your therapist to explain what's happening. You have the right to know how your body is functioning and what the therapy is trying to achieve.

Part of our Floor therapy guide.

The Science Behind Pelvic Floor Weakness

do i need pelvic floor therapy postpartum — Do I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy Postpartum (step by step) — Step By Step

During pregnancy and childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles stretch and can tear, especially if the delivery is complicated. Even a vaginal birth without tearing can lead to weakened muscles that don't return to their pre-pregnancy state without intervention. I didn't realize that my body was still trying to heal long after my baby was born.

Research shows that up to 50% of women experience some degree of pelvic floor dysfunction after childbirth. This can manifest as incontinence, pain during sex, or even a feeling of heaviness in the pelvis. These symptoms are not normal and can be addressed with therapy. (46%, urology.stanford.edu)^[2]

Pelvic floor therapy is based on the principle that muscles, like any other part of the body, can be strengthened through targeted exercises and manual therapy. My therapist explained that by learning how to contract and relax these muscles properly, I could see real improvements in my quality of life.

Your body is trying to heal, but it needs guidance.

Related: Pelvic floor chair therapy

When to Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy

I didn't seek therapy right away because I thought these symptoms were just part of being postpartum. But the truth is, if you're experiencing symptoms that are affecting your daily life, it's time to seek help. Incontinence is one of the most common reasons women come to therapy, but there are many other signs that shouldn't be ignored.

Other signs that you may need therapy include a feeling of pressure in the pelvis, difficulty urinating or bowel movements, and pain during sex. These are all red flags that your pelvic floor muscles are not functioning as they should. My therapist told me that even if you don't have symptoms, it's a good idea to get an assessment after childbirth.

The bottom line is, if you're feeling discomfort or a lack of control, don't wait. Pelvic floor therapy can help you regain your strength and confidence, and the earlier you start, the better the results.

💡 Consider a postpartum check-up

Many hospitals and clinics offer postpartum pelvic assessments. Take advantage of these opportunities to get early guidance on whether therapy is right for you.

“I remember the day after giving birth, when I tried to sit up in bed and my pelvis felt like it was slipping out of…”— Pelvic Floor Activation Drills editors

What to Expect During Therapy

do i need pelvic floor therapy postpartum — Do I Need Pelvic Floor Therapy Postpartum (the finished result) — The Finished Result

During my first few sessions, I was surprised by how much of the therapy involved education. My therapist taught me about the anatomy of the pelvic floor and how it functions in everyday life. I learned that the pelvic floor is not just about controlling urine—it's also about supporting the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.

Each session started with a physical assessment. My therapist used their hands to evaluate my muscle tone, flexibility, and any areas of tension. They then guided me through a series of exercises, often starting with gentle stretches and progressing to more intense contractions as my muscles strengthened.

As the weeks went on, I noticed that I could hold my bladder longer, and I had more control during sex. It was a slow but steady process, and I was amazed by how much I could improve in just a few months.

The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy

One of the most immediate benefits I noticed was the reduction in pain during sex. Before therapy, I had been avoiding intimacy because of the discomfort. After just a few sessions, I felt more confident and more in control of my body. It was a huge relief.

Another benefit was the improvement in my incontinence. I had been using pads for months, but after therapy, I noticed that I could hold my urine longer and didn't leak as often. It was empowering to feel like I was regaining control over my body.

Pelvic floor therapy also helped me understand my body better. I was able to recognize when my muscles were weak or tense, and I learned how to manage them through breathing and relaxation techniques. These skills have stayed with me long after my therapy sessions ended.

The Emotional Impact of Pelvic Floor Therapy

Before therapy, I felt disconnected from my body. I had no idea how to use my pelvic floor muscles properly, and I was constantly struggling with incontinence and pain. Therapy gave me the tools to reconnect with my body and regain control.

I was surprised by how much therapy helped with my emotional well-being. I felt more confident and less anxious about my postpartum recovery. It was a huge relief to know that I wasn't alone in my struggles and that there was a solution.

For many women, the emotional benefits of therapy are just as important as the physical ones. I've spoken with other mothers who have told me that therapy helped them feel more empowered and more in control of their lives.

Therapy isn't just about healing—it's about healing your confidence.

Getting Started with Pelvic Floor Therapy

If you're thinking about starting therapy, the first step is to find a qualified pelvic floor therapist. Many physical therapists specialize in this area, and some clinics offer postpartum-focused therapy programs. I was referred by my OB-GYN, but you can also search online or ask for recommendations from postpartum support groups.

Once you've found a therapist, the next step is to schedule an initial assessment. This can be done in person or, in some cases, via telehealth. During the assessment, your therapist will evaluate your symptoms and create a personalized plan for therapy.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but it's one of the best decisions you can make for your postpartum recovery. I'm now on my fifth session, and I can see a real difference in how I move, breathe, and feel. It's a journey, but it's worth every step.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

🧘 Beginner

Starting with basic stretches and education to build awareness of the pelvic floor.

💸 Budget

Cost-effective options like home exercises and online therapy programs.

⚡ Fastest

Targeted, high-intensity sessions for rapid improvements in strength and control.

💪 Advanced

In-depth therapy for complex issues like chronic incontinence or pain.

🔄 Maintenance

Ongoing support to sustain long-term pelvic floor health.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

How long does pelvic floor therapy usually take to show results?

Most people begin to see improvements within a few weeks of starting therapy, though the full process can take several months depending on individual needs and goals.

Is pelvic floor therapy painful?

Pelvic floor therapy is not meant to be painful. If you experience discomfort during a session, you should let your therapist know immediately so they can adjust the treatment.

Can I do pelvic floor exercises on my own without therapy?

While you can perform some exercises on your own, working with a therapist ensures that you're doing them correctly and safely.

How much does pelvic floor therapy cost?

The cost of pelvic floor therapy varies, but it's generally between $0 and $25 per session, depending on insurance coverage and the clinic you choose.

Can men benefit from pelvic floor therapy?

Yes, men can benefit from pelvic floor therapy, especially for issues related to incontinence, sexual dysfunction, or prostate health.

Is pelvic floor therapy covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans cover pelvic floor therapy, especially if it's prescribed by a healthcare provider. It's a good idea to check with your insurance company before starting therapy.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Ignoring symptoms for too long	Waiting too long to seek therapy can lead to chronic issues that are harder to treat.	If you're experiencing symptoms like incontinence or pain, don't wait—seek help as soon as possible.
Doing exercises incorrectly	Improper technique can worsen pelvic floor dysfunction and make recovery more difficult.	Always work with a trained therapist to ensure you're doing exercises correctly.
Not following through with therapy	Pelvic floor therapy requires consistency and commitment to see real results.	Set realistic goals and make therapy a regular part of your postpartum recovery plan.
Assuming therapy is only for women with severe symptoms	Many women benefit from therapy even if they don't have severe symptoms.	Consider therapy as a proactive step in your postpartum care, even if you're not experiencing major issues.