Post-Natal Care and Pelvic Floor Health: Why Recovery Matters More Than You Think
Post-natal care supports your recovery after childbirth, helping restore strength, hormonal balance and pelvic floor function. At Good Samaritan Medical & Dental in Kirrawee, our GPs provide comprehensive post-natal check-ups, pelvic floor assessments and personalised guidance to help you heal, regain confidence and return safely to daily life with the care and compassion every new mother deserves.
Welcoming a new baby is life changing, but caring for yourself after birth is just as important as caring for your newborn. Many women experience physical and emotional changes that deserve proper medical attention. At Good Samaritan Medical & Dental in Kirrawee, our doctors provide gentle, evidence-based post-natal care to support your body’s recovery and long-term wellbeing.
Why Post-Natal Care Matters
The weeks following birth are a crucial time for healing and adjustment. A post-natal GP check allows your doctor to:
- Assess recovery from labour or caesarean delivery
- Monitor emotional health and screen for post-partum depression or anxiety
- Discuss breastfeeding, sleep, and fatigue management
- Provide contraception advice and family-planning options
- Review pelvic floor strength and bladder control
These appointments ensure that any issues are addressed early so you can regain comfort and confidence.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Changes After Childbirth
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Pregnancy and childbirth place significant pressure on this area, which can lead to:
- Bladder leakage when coughing, sneezing, or exercising
- A sensation of heaviness or dragging
- Pain or reduced sensation during intimacy
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
While these symptoms are common, they are not something you need to simply “put up with.” With the right medical support and physiotherapy, pelvic floor function can often be restored.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain or weakness, your GP may recommend a referral to our Allied Health team for targeted physiotherapy.
Your Post-Natal Check-Up with Our Kirrawee GPs
We recommend scheduling your first post-natal check around six weeks after delivery, or earlier if you have concerns. During this appointment, your GP will:
- Examine your healing (including stitches or scars)
- Check blood pressure, bleeding patterns, and breast health
- Discuss mood, sleep, and emotional wellbeing
- Assess pelvic floor strength and refer to a women’s health physiotherapist if needed
- Offer safe contraception options for your post-partum stage
Our doctors create a private, supportive space where you can talk openly about any aspect of your recovery.
You can also book your appointment online for added convenience.
Pelvic Floor Exercises and Physiotherapy
Targeted exercises help strengthen and retrain the pelvic floor muscles. Your GP or physiotherapist may recommend:
- Gentle Kegel-type contractions several times a day
- Breathing techniques to improve core engagement
- Gradual re-introduction of low-impact activity
- Avoiding heavy lifting or high-impact exercise until cleared
Our Women’s Health GPs can guide you on how to safely begin these exercises, and when to see a physiotherapist for additional support.
Emotional and Mental Health After Birth
Hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and new responsibilities can all affect mental health. Feelings of sadness, worry, or irritability are common in the first weeks, but persistent low mood may indicate post-partum depression.
At Good Samaritan Medical & Dental, our GPs take emotional wellbeing seriously. We’ll listen with empathy and, if needed, connect you to counselling or psychological support. You are not alone in this journey.
For further reading, see our post on The Importance of Regular Check-Ups, which explains how consistent medical care supports long-term wellbeing.
Lifestyle Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Small, sustainable habits can make recovery easier:
- Eat nourishing foods rich in iron, protein, and fibre
- Stay hydrated and rest whenever possible
- Ask for help with household tasks and child care
- Prioritise gentle movement, such as walking or stretching
- Check in with your GP if something doesn’t feel right
Your body has done something remarkable. Taking care of yourself now sets the foundation for long-term health.
If you’re due for a comprehensive assessment, learn about ourHealth Check-Up services.
Your Trusted Post-Natal Doctors in Kirrawee
Our team supports women from Kirrawee, Gymea, Miranda, and the wider Sutherland Shire through every stage of pregnancy and beyond. We provide continuity of care, practical advice, and referrals when needed so you can recover with confidence.
Visit our Kirrawee Medical & Dental Clinic page to learn more about our local doctors and facilities.
Book your appointment online or call (02) 9522 3313 to see a GP at Good Samaritan Medical & Dental today.
Disclaimer: The information in this blog is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or care. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional about your personal health needs.