Physiotherapy after pregnancy

The first 3 months after having a baby can be referred to as the ‘fourth trimester’. After birth, your pregnancy hormones slowly leave your body and your body returns towards its pre-pregnancy state.

How your body recovers from pregnancy depends on many factors. It is important to take time to look after yourself as well as your baby. To help you adjust to becoming a new mother:

  • rest when your baby is resting
  • minimise visitors
  • ask or accept help from friends or family – this could be accepting meals or help with childminding, housework, shopping or cooking
  • make time to breath and relax.

During this time your body is working towards its pre-pregnant state, both physically and emotionally.

Read more about the physiotherapy services available to support you after you have given birth at Fiona Stanley Hospital.

Learn more

Fiona Stanley Hospital patients

Physiotherapy services are available to all women who are eligible for our maternity service (Healthy WA). If you are receiving our maternity services and wish to see a physiotherapist while you are pregnant, please ask your doctor or midwife to refer you.

Access to physiotherapy services is prioritised on the severity of your condition and your expected delivery date, with appointments allocated depending on available resources. Appointments can be face-to-face or in a group setting. Virtual video or phone appointments are also available.

If you wish to attend the antenatal hydrotherapy class, a medical form (available at the hospital) must be completed by your midwife or doctor. Please be aware COVID-19 restrictions may impact on the availability of these classes.

If you give birth at Fiona Stanley Hospital, the physiotherapist may arrange for you to be seen at your local hospital. If you delivered your baby at Fiona Stanley Hospital and had a 3rd or 4th degree tear, you will receive an appointment to see the physiotherapist.

You can self-refer to the physiotherapy department for up to 6 months after the birth of your baby. Please phone 6152 9486 or send an email to discuss making an appointment to see a women’s health physiotherapist.

Our services are available 8:00am to 4:00pm, Monday to Friday. Please refer to your outpatient appointment letter for the location of your appointment – view our hospital map (PDF 1MB) to find your way.

For more information phone us on 6152 9486 or send an email

Private physiotherapy

If you prefer to see a private physiotherapist, you can find one by visiting:

Read how you can use the Manage My Care app (external site):

  • see your referrals
  • view outpatient appointments
  • request to change appointments
  • update your details. 
Last Updated: 14/11/2023