If you’re getting ready for pregnancy, it’s natural to want to feel confident and well-informed. If you’re hoping to conceive soon, there are steps you can take now to prepare your body for pregnancy. One of these steps is a physiotherapy assessment with a pregnancy physiotherapist.
Preparing for pregnancy with a physiotherapy assessment is a chance to check in with your body and take small, thoughtful steps to support it. Many women find that seeing a women’s health physiotherapist helps them feel more at ease for the journey ahead.
Whether you’re planning to conceive in the next few months or still in the early stages of thinking about it, here are some of the most frequently asked questions about how to prepare your body for pregnancy.
1. Why see a pregnancy physiotherapist when preparing for motherhood?
Seeing a women’s health physio is a helpful way to prepare your body for pregnancy, especially if you’re living with pelvic pain, previous birth or pregnancy-related concerns, or ongoing symptoms that affect your hips, back, or pelvic area.
If you’ve experienced health problems or conditions like endometriosis, painful periods, pain with intercourse, or prolapse, a physiotherapist can help you understand how your pelvic floor is functioning and guide you through changes that support your health now and in future pregnancy.
For active women or those with joint instability or hypermobility, a physio can also help create a movement plan that protects your body through the stages of pregnancy.
2. What can I start doing now to prepare my body for pregnancy?
If you’re wondering how to prepare your body for pregnancy, there are a few small habits you can begin now:
Pelvic floor connection
Learning how to gently activate and relax your pelvic floor is a great place to start. Try a light lift of the muscles as if holding in wind, followed by a full release. It should feel subtle and controlled. If you’re not sure you’re doing it right, this is something your pregnancy physiotherapist can assess and help you with.
Diaphragmatic breathing
Deep belly breathing helps relax your pelvic floor and abdominal wall. Try placing your hands on your stomach and letting it rise and fall as you breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. This can be a helpful habit to get into before you go to sleep each night, or even after you finish a busy or stressful task.
Healthy toileting habits
Straining on the toilet can place unnecessary pressure on your pelvic floor. Practice going when you feel the urge, in a relaxed state and with your knees slightly raised using a footstool. If you often feel constipated or notice discomfort, this is something a pregnancy physio can help you with and is something important to address regardless of your stage of life.
For more information about healthy bowel habits and the right way to poo, read our blog here.
3. How to prepare for pregnancy after a previous birth or C-section
Every pregnancy is different, but previous births can leave lasting effects on the body. Whether you’ve had a C-section or vaginal birth before, your abdominal or pelvic floor muscles may still be recovering.
A pregnancy physiotherapist can assess your current function, help rebuild any strength or coordination, and guide you through specific exercises to support your body before your next pregnancy.
4. When should I start seeing a pregnancy physio if I want to get pregnant?
It’s never too early or too late, you can see a women’s health physiotherapist at any time. But if you’re actively preparing for pregnancy, an appointment in the next few months can be especially helpful. This gives time to build supportive routines, address any existing symptoms, and feel confident that your body is ready.
Some women include physiotherapy in their broader maternity health plan, alongside diet, supplements, and fertility support, as a proactive way to look after their body and wellbeing.
5. Can I keep exercising while getting ready for pregnancy?
Most women can safely continue their current exercise routine while preparing for pregnancy. That said, you may need to modify some exercises based on your body, symptoms, and how you’re feeling.
A physiotherapist can help you understand what’s appropriate and create a personalised plan that supports your goals and protects your pelvic floor. Whether you’re walking regularly, doing home workouts, or following a structured fitness routine, physiotherapy can help you feel confident and supported at every stage.
How pregnancy physiotherapy with North West Healthy Women can support you
Our team works with women at all stages, whether you’re planning ahead, newly pregnant, or navigating postpartum recovery. If you’re wondering how to prepare for pregnancy or want help getting your body ready, a women’s health pregnancy physiotherapist can give you practical guidance and support.
