What to Expect at Your First Postpartum Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Visit

Many new mothers assume that pelvic discomfort, bladder leaks, or pain with movement are simply “part of recovery.” At Mendwell Health, we want you to know that these issues are common, but not normal, and they can be treated. Postpartum pelvic floor physical therapy is a gentle, science-based way to help your body heal and regain strength after childbirth.

Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy After Childbirth Matters

During pregnancy and delivery, the pelvic floor muscles stretch to support your uterus, bladder, and bowels. This can lead to weakness, tightness, or coordination problems that cause incontinence, pain, or a heavy “dragging” feeling. Pelvic floor physical therapy after childbirth focuses on restoring function, balance, and confidence in these muscles.

What Happens at Your First Appointment

Your first visit is typically a 60-minute evaluation. Before you even arrive, you’ll complete a brief intake form online so your therapist understands your symptoms and goals.

When you arrive, you’ll meet privately with a pelvic health specialist in a comfortable treatment room — no open gym spaces or speculums here. The first 20 minutes are conversation-based. Your therapist will review your health history, birth experience, and current concerns such as leakage, pain, or pressure.

Next comes the physical assessment. Depending on your comfort level and your provider’s recommendation, this may include:

• External evaluation — checking posture, breathing patterns, and how your abdominal and hip muscles coordinate with your pelvic floor.
  
• Internal exam (optional) — performed with a gloved, lubricated hand, never with stirrups or speculums. It allows your therapist to gently assess how the pelvic muscles contract and relax, identify tension points, and evaluate strength. Consent is obtained at every step.
  

Developing Your Plan of Care

After the assessment, your therapist will explain what’s happening with your muscles and outline a plan of care. This typically includes:

• One to three sessions per week depending on your goals and insurance coverage
  
• Six to twelve total visits on average
  
• A personalized home-exercise program focused on breathing, relaxation, and gradual strengthening
  

Your therapist will also teach you practical habits, such as toileting strategies, posture corrections, and daily movement patterns that support healing between visits.

How It Feels

Some mild soreness after a session is normal, especially when releasing tight muscles or retraining movement. Most clients start noticing positive changes such as better bladder control, reduced pain, or improved strength within four to eight weeks.

A Comfortable, Trauma-Informed Experience

Roughly one in four postpartum women have experienced medical or birth trauma. Every Mendwell provider is trained in trauma-informed care to ensure comfort, privacy, and autonomy throughout treatment. You’ll always know what’s happening, why it’s happening, and have full control over each step.

The Takeaway

Your first postpartum pelvic floor therapy visit is the start of reclaiming confidence in your body. With the right guidance, you can heal fully, move comfortably, and get back to the activities you love — without leaks, pain, or fear.