The three months following the delivery of your newborn – known as the “Fourth Trimester” – is without a doubt one of the most challenging times for new mothers. You’re recovering from delivery, possibly a c-section. You’re caring for a newborn and possibly struggling to breastfeed and understand their new body. And, you’re adapting to an entirely new “normal”. This is a lot for any woman to take on.

While many other countries around the world dedicate this time to caring for both mother and child, here in the U.S., the onus is often on the mother to take a proactive approach to her healthcare. The majority of women will see their doctor for a six-week postpartum checkup. Unless there is significant pain or an obvious issue, such as incontinence, most women are signed off as healthy, told they can exercise and return to their typical routines.

But what exactly does “typical” mean in this new landscape of motherhood? And what can a mom do to take better care of herself? Turns out, a lot. We spoke with Spooner physical therapist, Carrie Yaeger, PT, DPT, PRPC to learn more.

One Approach Does Not Fit All

“It takes a total team approach to take care of new mothers,” Carrie said. “Moms should feel like they have the team and the resources for them to get their questions answered and have people to talk to about their concerns.”

Carrie sees it all in her job at Spooner, working with mothers who are addressing a range of concerns. But the one thing she notes is that everyone wants to return to their normal activity quickly. And in this rush to regain control and normalcy in their new (often chaotic) life, injuries and pain may occur.

“Every mom is different. Some may begin running three months postpartum. Others may not be ready for several more months and may need to build back up to it. Being cleared to exercise at 6 weeks postpartum is often confusing for new moms since they all have varying degrees of physical capability.”

Preventing Long-term Postpartum Issues

Carrie advises that women should be kind to themselves.

“Give yourself at least a year,” she said. “Make positive changes and steps in the right direction, but be patient with your progress. Your body has been through a lot.”

Some signs to watch out for that are abnormal or clue you into that something more serious is at play:

  • Leaking urine or feeling like you may not make it to the bathroom in time
  • Painful intercourse
  • Constipation
  • Prolapse, the feeling that something is “falling out” of your inner organs or feeling constant pressure

How Physical Therapy Can Help

“We empower women by educating them on what they can do at home, safely, to prevent prolapse and other disorders,” Carrie said.

Physical therapy can help women prepare for the physical activities that will become their new daily habits, such as breastfeeding (leaning over a baby, picking up a baby, supporting your back), moving a car seat in and out of a car, constantly picking up a child, and more.

Physical therapy can also aid in surgery recover, such as c-sections. For example, Spooner therapists are trained to teach patients how to manage scar tissue, including special massage techniques that can aid in the healing process. Therapists can also help treat diastasis recti.

“In general, physical therapists can help women adapt to motherhood by helping them prevent injuries and aid them in a safe return to activity,” Carrie said.

If you’re interested in learning more about how physical therapy can help you return to your normal activities in the Fourth Trimester and beyond, please reach out to Spooner. We’re here to help you live your most healthy, active life.

Learn more about Women’s Health at Spooner Physical Therapy. Ready to schedule an appointment? Schedule an appointment or complimentary movement screen with a Spooner physical therapist at one of our locations throughout the valley.