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Richmond Physiotherapy

Bump & Beyond

Contact

clinic@richmondphysio.co.uk

What is Women's Health Physiotherapy

Women’s Health Physiotherapy is the specialised therapeutic treatment of disorders affecting the pelvis and pelvic floor throughout all stages of life. From pregnancy and postpartum recovery to the menopause transition and beyond, there is significant clinical evidence that specialist physiotherapy can alleviate symptoms that many women mistakenly believe are a “normal” part of aging or motherhood.

At Richmond Physiotherapy, we provide a logical, detailed, and highly supportive environment. We understand that pelvic health concerns can be sensitive topics; our goal is to provide clarity, evidence-based clinical expertise, and a clear pathway to regaining your confidence and physical wellbeing.

Who We Help

Our specialist team supports women across every life stage:

Antenatal Patients: We prescribe safe, effective exercise programs to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.
Postpartum Recovery: Assisting with pelvic floor trauma, perineal tears, and return-to-exercise planning from 6 weeks after birth.
Menopausal Women: Managing bone density loss (Osteoporosis) through strength training and addressing Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).
Athletes: Helping women maintain high-level athletic performance while managing pelvic floor integrity.
Lactation Support: Treating Mastitis using therapeutic ultrasound and providing education on breastfeeding posture.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

An initial Women’s Health appointment typically takes 1 hour. During this time, your therapist will take a thorough medical history of your symptoms. A physical examination may follow, which can include an internal assessment of the pelvic floor muscles to identify tone, strength, and control. Based on these findings, we develop a bespoke treatment plan involving education, lifestyle modifications, manual therapy, or specific exercise prescription.

Women's Health Physiotherapy

Common Pelvic Health Conditions We Treat

- Urinary Incontinence
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Abdominal Muscle Separation
- Menopausal Changes
- Urinary Urgency & Frequency
- Pregnancy Related-Pain
- Sexual Dysfunction

Post Natal Body Check

A postnatal body check is a specialist assessment recommended for all women following childbirth, whether at 6 weeks post-delivery or many years later.

A postnatal physiotherapy assessment helps evaluate the strength and function of the abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. The aim is to prevent long-term, childbirth-related issues and provide guidance on safe, functional rehabilitation to support a return to pre-pregnancy activity levels.

What is included:

Assessment of abdominal separation (DRAM)
Evaluation of pelvic floor healing, including any scars
Pelvic floor strength and relaxation assessment
Screening for incontinence or prolapse
Postural assessment for breastfeeding or bottle feeding
Assessment for mastitis
Guidance on returning to exercise

Pregnancy Massage

Pregnancy is a journey of incredible physiological transformation that places unique demands on the musculoskeletal system. At Richmond Physiotherapy, our pregnancy massage service is a specially adapted technique designed to be used safely throughout your second and third trimesters. We provide a logical and detailed approach to prenatal care, tailoring every session to accommodate the specific needs of the expectant mother. Based at Richmond Clinic, we offer a high-authority clinical environment where safety and comfort are paramount, helping you to rejuvenate and find relief during this significant life stage.

What are the Benefits of Pregnancy Massage?

- Reduces anxiety, stress and muscular tension
- Promotes relaxation for both body and mind
- Helps to reduce swelling in the arms and legs
- Can alleviate low back pain, pelvic girdle pain and sciatica
- Relieves aches and pains in muscles and joints
- Improves overall circulation
- Encourages relaxation and better sleep quality

Is Pregnancy Massage Safe?

The NHS guidelines indicate that pregnancy massage is among the safest forms of complementary therapies available during pregnancy, provided suitable screening is undertaken. However, it is generally not recommended in the first trimester (1 to 12 weeks) unless specifically advised by a medical professional. Pregnant people with certain health conditions may not be suitable candidates for this therapy, but a thorough screening process is always conducted by your therapist before treatment commences.

Any complications, such as pre-eclampsia, low-lying placenta or gestational diabetes, will be assessed individually, and consultation with your doctor will be sought when necessary to ensure safety and efficacy.

We support expectant mothers across Richmond and South West London through various stages of their pregnancy:

Second and Third Trimester Clients: Addressing the increasing physical toll of a growing bump.
Mothers with PGP or Back Pain: Providing targeted relief for spinal and pelvic joint strain.
Active Pregnant Individuals: Helping to maintain mobility and reduce muscular tension.
Clients with Swelling: Utilising specialised techniques to improve lymphatic drainage and circulation.
Those Seeking Stress Relief: Offering a calm, therapeutic space to support mental and emotional wellbeing.