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.