Bringing a baby into the world is a powerful, life-changing experience. For many new mothers, the six-week postpartum checkup feels like a finish line; the moment they’re told everything is “back to normal.”
But here’s the truth:
Your six weeks isn’t the finish line. It’s the beginning of postpartum recovery.
Postpartum moms often feel discouraged or confused when they aren’t fully healed by the six-week checkup, but that’s completely normal. Recovery from pregnancy and childbirth takes time, guidance, and individualized care.
Common Postpartum Myths
Misconceptions surrounding the postpartum period often lead women to dismiss or ignore ongoing symptoms. Here are some of the most common myths:
Myth #1: “You should be back to normal after six weeks.”
Fact: 6 weeks is the minimum amount of time needed for tissue healing, NOT the time needed for recovery. Full physical recovery time varies. Conditions such as tearing, episiotomies, c-sections, prolonged labor, pelvic floor dysfunction, and diastasis recti will further impact your rate of healing.
Myth #2: “If you’re cleared for exercise, you can return to high-intensity workouts.”
Fact: Returning to running or strength training without rebuilding core and pelvic stability can lead to pain, incontinence, or prolapse symptoms. A gradual, guided approach is essential.
Myth #3: “Leaking urine after birth is normal.”
Fact: While common, urinary incontinence is not something you need to accept. It’s a sign that your pelvic floor needs support.
Myth #4: “A C-section means the pelvic floor doesn’t need rehab.”
Fact: Even with a C-section, your pelvic floor carried the load of a growing baby and uterus for months during your pregnancy. Targeted therapy can help restore scar mobility, core strength, and efficient breathing patterns.
Why the 6-Week Mark Matters
By the six-week milestone, the body has reduced initial inflammation and begun healing, making it the ideal time to start rebuilding foundational strength.
Postpartum physical therapy can help you:
- Reconnect with and strengthen your core
- Improve breathing patterns
- Restore pelvic floor coordination
- Address posture changes from pregnancy and feeding
- Reduce or prevent pain, pressure, and leaking
- Safely return to exercise
The goal is not just recovery, but confident long-term well-being.
How Pelvic Floor & Postpartum Physical Therapy Supports Recovery
At James Fowler Physical Therapy, we take a comprehensive, individualized approach to postpartum care. Therapy may include:
- Pelvic floor strengthening and relaxation strategies
- C-section or perineal scar mobilization
- Diastasis recti evaluation and treatment
- Core and breath retraining
- Posture and body mechanics correction
- Customized guidance for returning to fitness and daily activities
We help new mothers feel strong, supported, and connected to their bodies — no matter how long it has been since birth.
It’s Not Too Late & You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Whether you are six weeks postpartum or several years beyond childbirth, you deserve support. Postpartum care should extend beyond a single appointment.
Schedule Your Postpartum Assessment
Healing takes time and support. If you’re ready to begin your recovery journey, our team is here to help.
Call James Fowler Physical Therapy today at (212) 253-9383 to schedule your postpartum evaluation.
Your recovery continues here.