Each pregnancy is unique, but certain key stages deserve special attention to make this period more comfortable and safe. This guide will help you know when to seek perineal physiotherapy or osteopathy, two complementary approaches that can significantly improve your well-being during pregnancy and promote optimal postpartum recovery.

During pregnancy: what to pay attention to?

Why consult a pelvic and perineal physiotherapist?

  • Relieve pelvic, lower back, thoracic, or sciatic pain;
  • Prevent urinary or fecal leakage and incontinence;
  • Strengthen the pelvic floor and prepare it for childbirth;
  • Improve pelvic mobility;
  • Learn breathing and pushing techniques.

Why see an osteopath?

  • Relieve musculoskeletal discomfort (back, legs, pelvis, diaphragm);
  • Promote good posture and better pelvic mobility;
  • Reduce discomfort caused by the growing uterus;
  • Optimize space for the baby.

When to consult during pregnancy?

Each trimester brings changes and new reasons to consult a pelvic floor physiotherapist or osteopath. Here’s a guide to know when a consultation can be beneficial.

1st trimester: laying the foundation

Early on, everything is starting to shift. You may experience fatigue, nausea, or minor tension. This is also a great time to prevent issues before they arise.

Goals: 

  • Prevent the onset of pain;
  • Relieve early pregnancy discomforts;
  • Support your body gently through its initial changes;
  • Help you better understand what’s happening and establish a conscious connection with your pelvic floor.

When to consult: From 12 weeks, an initial evaluation with a physiotherapist or osteopath can be scheduled if desired.

2nd trimester: move comfortably

This is often when energy levels rise… but early back and pelvic pain may appear.

Goals: 

  • Relieve common tensions (back, pelvis, sciatic nerve);
  • Improve posture and mobility;
  • Prevent musculoskeletal discomfort linked to body changes;
  • Learn to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor as it adapts to the growing baby.

When to consult: Between 16 and 20 weeks, depending on symptoms or for preventive follow-up.

3rd trimester: preparing for the big day

The belly grows, mobility changes, and the due date approaches. This is the time to prepare physically for birth.

Goals: 

  • Prepare the body for childbirth (pelvic mobility, breathing, pelvic floor flexibility);
  • Reduce tension linked to body changes;
  • Improve comfort.

When to consult:

  • Around 28 weeks: start birth-specific exercises.
  • Around 34 weeks: birth planning, pelvic floor stretching, pushing techniques, and strategies to support the baby’s descent and maximize comfort.

💡 Reminder: There’s no “wrong time” to consult. Even a single session can provide relief and valuable guidance.

Post-partum: supporting overall recovery

Pelvic and perineal physiotherapy : when to consult?

  • From 6 weeks postpartum (after lochia ends);
  • To assess pelvic recovery (tone, perineal and abdominal scars, pain, urinary leakage);
  • To safely resume physical activity;
  • In case of pain during sexual activity.

Postnatal osteopathy: why consult?

  • Relieve post-birth discomforts (back, pelvis, neck, shoulders);
  • Help the body regain balance;
  • Support breastfeeding mothers or those carrying their baby frequently;
  • Prevent chronic pain or compensatory movements.

Benefits of combined approach

Combining pelvic floor physiotherapy and osteopathy allows:

  • A complementary and holistic approach;
  • Better body awareness and long-lasting relief;
  • Support that addresses both the physical and emotional well-being of the mother.

👉 Note: Osteopathic care can also benefit infants (plagiocephaly, digestion, sleep).

At Ekinox, we support you at every step

Our physiotherapist, who are experts in perineal rehabilitation, and our perinatal osteopaths offer compassionate support, tailored to your needs.

Our interdisciplinary team works together to guide you throughout pregnancy and postpartum.

Have questions? Contact us or book an appointment today.