Postnatal Recovery Physiotherapy in Cape Town: Your Check Up After Birth

Having a baby is a huge event for your body, yet the weeks after birth often pass in a blur with little attention paid to how you are recovering. A postnatal physiotherapy check up gives you dedicated time to look after yourself, understand how your body is healing and feel confident about getting back to movement.

What is a postnatal recovery check up?

It is a supportive, private assessment of how your body is recovering after birth. Your physiotherapist looks at your core, your pelvic floor and how you are moving, and answers the questions that so often go unasked. The aim is to reassure you and guide your recovery, whether you gave birth recently or some time ago.

Why is postnatal physiotherapy worth it?

Pregnancy and birth place real demands on the deep muscles that support your tummy and pelvic organs. A check up helps you rebuild this support safely, addresses concerns like leaking or a tummy gap, and reduces the risk of ongoing aches as you lift and carry your baby. It is care for you, at a time when everyone else gets the attention.

When can you start?

Gentle recovery work can begin soon after birth, and a fuller assessment is often helpful from around six weeks, or whenever you feel ready. There is no cut off, so it is never too late to have your recovery checked, even months or years down the line.

What does recovery involve?

Your physiotherapist builds a plan around your body and your goals, from gentle breathing and core reconnection to graded strengthening and a safe return to exercise. Everything moves at your pace, with clear guidance so you always know what to do next.

Frequently asked questions

How soon after birth should I have a check up?

Many women find a check up from around six weeks helpful, but earlier gentle guidance and later assessments are both worthwhile. Whenever you are ready is the right time.

Can physiotherapy help with leaking after birth?

Yes. Postnatal pelvic floor physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to improve bladder control after birth, and many women see a real difference with a tailored programme.

Is it useful even if my baby is older?

Absolutely. Your body can respond to the right exercises long after birth, so a check up is worthwhile whether your baby is weeks or years old.

Book with Tasneem Kader. Tasneem is a women's health physiotherapist at Peak Movement in Cape Town who supports women through recovery after birth. If you would like a caring postnatal check up, book a session at our Strand Street rooms.