Postpartum Self-Care Starts with Your Pelvic Floor
Guest Blog Post from ATL Pelvic Health
When you have a newborn, self-care often takes a backseat—it’s all about feedings, diaper changes, and making sure your baby is comfortable and taken care of.
Unfortunately, your own needs tend to come last. Most postpartum “self-care” advice focuses on quick things —maybe a warm shower, a few bites of a meal while it’s still hot, or squeezing in a nap when you can. Is that even self-care or just fulfilling basic needs? If we really want to focus on self-care after birth, we need to change our mindset to help our body heal, both physically and mentally, so that we can rebuild strength and resiliency to thrive during motherhood.
One of the most overlooked yet essential forms of postpartum self-care? Taking care of your pelvic floor after giving birth.
Your Body Has Been Through a Lot—It Deserves Care
Pregnancy and birth (whether vaginal or C-section) place incredible demands on the pelvic floor and core. You may experience leakage, pressure, pain, or weakness—all signs that your body is asking for attention. These symptoms aren’t just things you have to “live with.” They’re signals that your pelvic floor needs support to recover.
Ignoring pelvic floor issues can lead to long-term dysfunction, but taking the time to rehab your body after birth is a powerful way to show yourself care and compassion.
Pelvic Floor Healing Supports Mental Well-Being
Postpartum isn’t just a physical transition—it’s an emotional one, too. Your body has changed, your routines are different, and your sense of self may feel unfamiliar. Many new moms struggle with feelings of frustration or disconnect when they don’t feel strong in their own bodies.
When you invest in your pelvic health, you’re doing more than strengthening muscles—you’re rebuilding confidence and reclaiming your ability to move without fear. Feeling strong and supported in your body has a direct impact on your mental well-being, making everyday activities (like lifting your baby, getting back to exercise, or even just sneezing without leaking) feel easier and more empowering.
Pelvic Floor Therapy Is More Than Kegels
If you’ve ever been told to “just do Kegels” and move on, you’re not alone—but pelvic floor healing is about so much more. A strong pelvic floor isn’t just about squeezing; it’s about coordination, mobility, and proper core engagement.
A pelvic floor therapist can help you guide you during the fourth trimester and beyond to learn how to:
- Identify muscle imbalances and areas of weakness
- Learn how to engage AND relax your pelvic floor properly
- Build strength in a way that supports your daily movements
- Reduce pain and discomfort so you can enjoy your postpartum experience
You Deserve to Feel Good in Your Body Again
It’s easy to put yourself last when you’re caring for a newborn, but your recovery matters. Taking care of your pelvic floor isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity that allows you to heal, move, and live fully.
If you’re dealing with symptoms like leaking, pressure, or pain, you don’t have to wait it out. Investing in your pelvic health is one of the best things you can do for yourself—and it’s an act of self-care that lasts far beyond the newborn stage.
Ready to Feel Strong and Supported Again?
We’re here to help! At ATL Pelvic Health we have a pregnancy and postpartum program to help empower you throughout every stage of preconception, pregnancy and postpartum. Book a session with us and give yourself the care you deserve.
Start Working With a Postpartum Therapist in Atlanta, GA
You deserve to feel strong, supported, and at home in your body again. If you’re navigating postpartum recovery and ready to prioritize your healing, an experienced postpartum therapist with our team is here to guide you. Schedule your first session today and take the next step toward empowered motherhood—because your well-being matters. Start your therapy journey with Informed Therapy by following these simple steps:
- Visit our Contact page, call (404) 444-8974, or email info@informedtherapy.com for a free 15-minute consultation!
- Meet with a caring therapist
- Start finding new activities for you and your little ones!
Other Services Offered with Informed Therapy Group
Our compassionate therapists at Informed Therapy Group take a multifaceted approach to mental health. In addition to postpartum therapy, we are happy to offer neurodivergent therapy in Atlanta, GA, anxiety therapy, depression therapy, grief and loss counseling, and therapy for stress management. We also specialize in couples counseling, and pregnancy counseling. Explore our About Us page, visit our blog, or read our FAQs to learn more about how we can help. When you’re ready to reach out, we encourage you to call (404) 444-8974 or email us at admin@informedtherapy.com.
About the Author
Melissa Light, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, is a licensed professional counselor and nationally certified clinician with over a decade of experience supporting individuals in their emotional growth. Specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Melissa offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach that creates a space for clients to connect with themselves and feel more present in their lives as they navigate transitions, emotions, and personal growth. Her specialty areas include Perinatal Mental Health and autistic or ADHD adults. Known for creating a warm, welcoming space, Melissa empowers clients to explore their stories at their own pace. Outside of her practice, she enjoys the chaos and joy of family life with her husband, two children, and labradoodle, Fozzie. She can often be found hiking, baking, or painting with watercolors— embracing creativity and the beauty of imperfection.
