Shire Women

Sutherland Shire Women’s Physio: Your 6-Week Postnatal Check - What to Expect

Why book a postnatal physio check?

The first 6-12 weeks after birth are a big change for your body. A postnatal women’s physio check helps you recover confidently - assessing pelvic floor function, abdominal separation, C-section scar mobility, posture, and safe return to walking, Pilates or running. If you’ve been searching for a Sutherland Shire women’s physio, this guide explains what happens in your appointment at Flow Physio Co.


When should I come in?

Anytime from 4-8 weeks postpartum (later is fine too). Come sooner if you notice heaviness, leaking, pain, or persistent back/hip/pelvic pain.

Quick note: This article is general info only. If symptoms worry you, please book an assessment with a qualified women’s health physiotherapist or speak with your GP.


What happens at your 6-week postnatal physio check

1) Chat & goals
We’ll discuss your birth, recovery so far, feeding positions, daily loads (hello pram lifting!) and what you want to get back to - pain-free walking, Pilates, gym, running.

2) Pelvic floor assessment (gentle)
Understanding strength, endurance, and relaxation. We teach cues you can actually feel (no guesswork) and give you a simple plan you can do between feeds.

3) Abdominal wall check
We assess abdominal separation (DRAM) and core strategy - how your body manages pressure when you stand, lift, cough or carry bub.

4) C-section scar or perineal care (if relevant)
Tips for comfort, massage, desensitisation and positions that make feeding and settling easier.

5) Posture & daily movement tweaks
Pram height, baby-wearing, lifting technique and set-ups to reduce strain on your back and pelvic floor.

6) Personalised plan
Clear reps/sets, how often, and when to progress - plus check-ins if you’d like support as you return to longer walks, classes or running.


Gentle starter exercises (safe basics)

These are general; stop if you feel pain/heaviness and get assessed.

  • Breath + pelvic floor connection: Exhale gently as you lift the pelvic floor; inhale to let it relax.

  • Heel slides or marches (slow): Keep breathing; focus on control, not bracing.

  • Short supported walks: Build up gradually (e.g., 10–15 mins), good shoes, pram at elbow height.

  • Rest positions: Side-lying with pillow support to ease lower-back/pelvic load.

Signs to book sooner

  • Pelvic heaviness/dragging

  • Leaking urine or bowel changes

  • Pain with intercourse

  • Bulge at the tummy that domes with sit-ups

  • Ongoing back, hip or pubic pain

Why choose Flow’s Sutherland Shire women’s physio team?

  • Specialist care: Pelvic floor, pregnancy and postnatal expertise.

  • Private rooms & baby-friendly: Feed or settle during your session.

  • Convenient Shire location: Our Sutherland & Woolooware clinics are easily accessed for residents in the Sutherland Shire.

  • Health rebates: HICAPS available; EPC/Medicare referrals accepted where applicable.

Ready to feel supported?

Book your 6-week postnatal check with our Sutherland Shire women’s physio team today. Same-week appointments available.

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  • No referral is required to see a physiotherapist.

  • Yes - babies are welcome and we’ll work around feeds and naps.

  • It depends on your delivery, symptoms and goals. We’ll map a gradual plan and let you know when you’re ready for Pilates, strength or running.

  • If you have extras cover for physiotherapy, yes - use HICAPS/Healthpoint to claim on the spot.


New Sutherland Shire Women’s Physio at Flow: Welcome Edwina Powe

We’re thrilled to welcome Edwina Powe to Flow as our newest Sutherland Shire women’s physio. With postgraduate training and experience across hospital and private practice, Edwina supports women with pelvic floor rehab, pregnancy and postnatal care, continence concerns and complex pelvic pain.
If you’re seeking a Shire women’s health physio who combines clinical expertise with a kind, practical approach, Edwina is now accepting new patients.

Book now