Pregnancy & Postpartum Physiotherapy

SIDE NOTE ON BELLY WRAPS

Belly wraps can be used during the post-partum period (1-2 months post partum) to improve abdominal and back support and to help with healing. It may help to approximate the abdominal muscles, and help retrain the deeper abdominal muscles. To strengthen the deeper muscles the wrap can be used in combination with the appropriate exercises.

There are many types of wraps, make sure the pressure is greater from the bottom, so there is not too much increased downward abdominal pressure towards the perineum and lower organs. Also elastic wraps works better than non elastic ones. 

Downward pressure should be avoided with symptoms of prolapse!

I sometimes recommend a spanx type high waist mid thigh shaper as the compression will be from bottom up.

Active Woman Post Pregnancy

Virtual Pregnancy & Postpartum Physiotherapy

Pregnancy and postpartum care are essential for the long-term health of both mother and baby. Staying active, managing symptoms, and preparing the body for birth and recovery are key elements—and yes, it’s all possible through virtual care.

Virtual pregnancy and postpartum physiotherapy can help keep you mobile, pain-free, and confident—no matter where you are. Whether you're preparing for delivery or navigating your recovery, I’m here to support you with evidence-based, personalized care—all from the comfort and privacy of your home.


How Virtual Care Can Help During Pregnancy

Your body undergoes incredible changes to support your growing baby. While many people feel well during pregnancy, others may experience discomfort such as:

  • Pelvic, hip, or lower back pain

  • Bladder symptoms (urgency, frequency, leakage)

  • Constipation or bowel changes

  • Sleep disturbances or mobility issues

In our virtual sessions, we focus on practical, gentle solutions, including:

  • Movement and posture strategies

  • Safe exercise modifications

  • Pelvic floor muscle training

  • Perineal massage guidance

  • Breathing and relaxation techniques

  • Birthing positions and labor preparation

You’ll be guided through each step via video call, with space to ask questions, express concerns, and receive individualized support.


Collaborative Virtual Support

I also collaborate with a network of trusted perinatal providers—including naturopathic doctors and pregnancy-focused acupuncturists—who may be able to support your journey virtually or in your area.


Pregnancy and Intimacy

If you are having a healthy pregnancy and have no risk factors for pre-term labor (such as high blood pressure or multiple gestation), intimacy is safe and can be a natural part of pregnancy.
Some people even notice an increase in libido due to hormonal shifts. While sex does not increase the risk of miscarriage, physical and emotional comfort matter—so as your body changes, we can also explore ways to support a safe and enjoyable experience.


Pregancy App for BC Residents

 

 
Postpartum Recovery—Yes, Even Virtually

The first year after delivery is a critical window for pelvic health recovery. Hormones, ligaments, and tissues continue to shift, especially for lactating mothers, making it an ideal time to address any symptoms that arose during pregnancy or birth.

Virtual postpartum physiotherapy focuses on:

  • Core and pelvic floor recovery

  • Safe return to physical activity

  • Support for bladder and bowel concerns

  • Managing pelvic organ prolapse symptoms

  • Addressing diastasis recti

  • Pain with sex or vaginal sensitivity

  • Education and emotional support

All assessments and guidance are tailored to what’s possible and appropriate in virtual care. When needed, I’ll help you with self-assessment tools and techniques that empower you to better understand your body and progress.

When to Book a Virtual Postpartum Appointment:

Anytime you feel you could benefit from guidance, support, or answers—whether you're weeks, months, or even years postpartum.

You don’t need to wait for a specific timeline or have a referral. Book a virtual appointment if you are experiencing:

  • Urinary incontinence, urgency, or frequency

  • Pelvic heaviness or signs of prolapse

  • Pain with intimacy or vaginal sensitivity

  • Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)

  • Low back, hip, or pelvic pain

  • Bowel changes or discomfort

  • A desire to return to activity safely and confidently

  • Or simply want to feel more connected and strong in your body

POST-PARTUM DEPRESSION

Emotional instability, anger, guilt, tearfulness, worrying, anxious thoughts or images, feelings of inadequacy and the inability to cope are signs of post-partum depression. It can occur shortly after the arrival of a baby or months after. Post-partum depression needs to be treated as soon as possible.

Pregnancy opening postures

This is my favourite pose: you can practice pelvic floor muscle relaxation, belly breathing or perineal stretch

Love this stretch, you want your sacrum to be touching the wall to increase support. Open your legs as tolerated, no pain or over-stretching

Symmetry pose can be used to level the pelvis and hips, improve inner-thigh flexibility. If not comfortable lying flat use a wedge pillow.

 

Happy baby pose can be challenging at time, you can modify by doing one leg at the time and also using a wedge pillow if uncomfortable lying flat.

Remember your body is more lax during pregnancy so be careful, don't overstretch. These are relaxation poses, so you want to feel comfortable to be able to relax.

Postpartum Exercise Videos

I always prescribe exercises for postpartum moms. I usually find strong gluts, core awareness, thorax / abdominal mobility, and upper body strength essential to regain function and to help with day-to-day activities during postpartum period and into the future. I have started this project with my community fitness instructors and healers to contribute with great exercises and tips for you..

These videos are from my community to you 

Bridging Variations: Gluts Strengthening Exercises

Back Dancing & Bridging with Lats Exercises

 

Transverse Abdominal Exercises

 

Standing Parallel Contributed by Raquel Lanting of  Dailey Method White Rock 

Back Strengthening & Chest Opener Contributed by Susannah Steers of Moving Spirit

Yoga Chest Breathing Contributed by Lauren Roegele


Clam Shell Exercise Program Contributed by Kim Vopni (The Vagina Coach)