Joana Ramalho
Perinatal physiotherapist
Understand pelvic physiotherapy during or after pregnancy: useful questions, what to expect at a first appointment and arrangements at Rebalance.
Would you like to discuss pelvic floor concerns, care during pregnancy or recovery after childbirth? A first appointment starts with your request and what you would like to return to doing in daily life.
Urinary leakage, pelvic discomfort and difficulty returning to activity can be described in your own words. Note how often they happen, the situations involved and any advice already received. A symptom alone is not enough to choose an exercise.
The conversation covers your history, expectations and any guidance from your maternity or medical team. Ask what the proposed assessment involves. You can request explanations, decline an examination or ask for a pause. Further care should take account of your circumstances and comfort.
Bring useful reports and any prescription. Note questions about daily activities, returning to sport or exercises already suggested. Do not automatically add an online exercise routine to an existing plan. Acute pain, fever or unusual bleeding need medical advice, especially during or after pregnancy.
Exercises may form part of care, but the choice and technique should fit your needs. The NHS pregnancy exercise information describes their general role. It does not replace assessment or your maternity team’s instructions.
The profile below presents the pelvic and perinatal care documented at Rebalance. You can also meet the whole physiotherapy team. Describe your request before booking to confirm the arrangements for this service. Our first appointment guide covers general preparation.

Pelvic physiotherapy is not limited to the period after childbirth. It may be discussed for leakage during effort, a feeling of heaviness, pain, difficulty returning to sport or a wish to understand pelvic floor function better. Men and women may also seek care in urological, digestive or post-operative contexts.
Care may focus on better control of urgency, returning to activity without apprehension, finding a comfortable movement or coordinating breathing and effort. Ask how progress will be observed and how exercises can be adjusted on a busy day, during pregnancy or when returning to sport.

The profile of Joana Ramalho presents the documented pelvic and perinatal focus at Rebalance. Intimate questions can be addressed gradually: you can request an explanation, a pause or another option at every stage.
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Practical information