Postnatal MOT
After giving birth, you may or may not receive a check from your GP. After nine months of pregnancy followed by delivery, we believe your body deserves more.
Our Postnatal MOT health assessment is ideal for anyone who has given birth – ever! Up to half of all mothers have weakness in their abdominal muscles and pelvic floor muscles and up to a third have a tummy gap (diastasis recti) eight weeks after birth.
This can cause issues that lead to back or pelvic pain, or bladder, bowel, or sexual dysfunction.
The Postnatal Mot serves to ensure your body is recovering well and helps to ensure that any issues that may arise are caught and treated early.
Whether you had your baby 6 weeks or 6 years ago, whether this is your first baby or your last, the Postnatal MOT is a fantastic step towards a healthy post-pregnancy you. ​
Postnatal MOT with The Mummy PT
Your Postnatal MOT assessment is carried out by Sarah Yeubrey, a pelvic health and postnatal fitness specialist.
Sarah’s Postnatal MOT assessment helps to identify any underlying issues while offering practical advice on posture, pelvic health and tummy issues that can have an immediate and long term impact.
1.5 -Hour Assessment Includes:
Full postural screen.
Pelvic floor muscle assessment.
Abdominal muscle exam to check for any separation.
External screening for bladder, bowel or sexual dysfunction.
Strength and mobility assessment.
Postnatal physio based exercises to address any issues.​
Education and advice on activities such as lifting your baby or pushing a pushchair.
Bespoke rehabilitation programme with your goals and lifestyle factors in mind.
Returning to exercise postpartum can be a daunting feat. Sarah will work with you to help you make informed and safe choices regarding returning to exercise. Whether your goal is to incorporate gentle movement or to run a marathon, the Postnatal MOT helps to uncover and treat any issues to ensure you can return to fitness again.
Common Postnatal Issues
Diastasis recti (or tummy gap)
Diastasis recti - a seperation of the tummy muscles - is a common postnatal issue. This gap can cause a "pooch" or bulge in the stomach. It can also lead to more serious complaints including back pain, core instability, constipation or bloating. Diastasis recti can be checked during the Postnatal MOT and treated successfully with the right postural and exercise changes.
Incontinence
Incontinence may be common after childbirth, but it's not something you have to live with. Leaking pee or poo when you laugh, run, or sneeze can have a massive impact on your quality of life. Our Postnatal MOT assesses your pelvic floor muscles and so we can offer advice and exercises to reduce any weakness that can cause leaking. You do NOT have to live with postnatal incontinence.
Painful sex
Pain during intercourse is a very common complaint among postnatal women. Whether you had a vaginal or caesarean birth, there are myriad changes that can cause pain during sex. We'll discuss these issues discreetly and compassionately and help to figure out the cause and solution.
FAQ
How long does the Postnatal MOT session take?
The Postnatal MOT assessment takes around 90 minutes.
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Can my baby be with me during my appointment?
Yes, of course! Please have playmats, bottles, toys at the ready so we can keep them happy. Of course if they need a cuddle, changing, feeding etc. we will make the session work with their needs in mind.
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When do you get a Postnatal MOT?
It’s recommended that you have the assessment 6-8 weeks after baby’s birth. However, a postnatal assessment can be beneficial even years after giving birth.
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I didn't have a vaginal birth, should I have the Postnatal MOT?
Absolutely. A postnatal assessment is for anyone who has been pregnant. Many issues that arise post partum have nothing to do with the delivery and more to do with the postural changes, hormones, muscle and ligament changes and beyond that take place during pregnancy.
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How many sessions will I need?
The Postnatal MOT is a single assessment that takes place during one 90-minute appointment. Some people have some issues that require further appointments, some don’t. Either way, the single session will give you a good understanding of how your body is doing post-pregnancy. Feel free to call us to discuss in advance.
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Is what we discuss in sessions confidential?
Absolutely. Sarah’s specialised training in women’s health gives her a unique understanding of the importance of open, honest dialogue with her patients and the role discretion and confidentiality plays in this relationship.
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How do I schedule an appointment?
We recommend ringing us on 07583795136 to make your appointment and have a quick chat.
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What is involved in a Postnatal Mot?
The Postnatal MOT is an assessment that includes an in-depth screening of how your posture, pelvic floor muscles, and stomach muscles are recovering after pregnancy and childbirth.
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Will I have to remove my clothing.
No. The postnatal assessment is an external exam. However, you will be required to have your stomach and lower ribs uncovered for part of the examination, but you may leave your top and bra on for this.
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What if I have a serious/embarrassing/unusual issue?
With more than 11 years of experience as a pelvic health professional and with specialised training in women’s health, there is nothing that Sarah will view as unusual or embarrassing. She has, truly, seen it all before and your emotional and physical comfort is a priority.
If a serious issue is discovered, Sarah will work with you to find the best treatment.
I had my baby years ago, can I still have an assessment.
Yes. There is no time-limit on when you can have a postnatal assessment with us. If you have an issue or are suffering since childbirth, we encourage to make an appointment as soon as possible so we can help treat it.
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Where does the Postnatal MOT take place?
All face to face sessions at The Mummy PT take place from the comfort of your own home at a time that is convenient for you and your family. I will travel up to 30 minutes from central St Albans where I am based. I am happy to travel further, however there will be a mileage fee.
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I don't think I have any postnatal issues, can I get a Postnatal MOT?
We encourage anyone who has been pregnant to have a postnatal assessment. The assessment will look at many things that may have changed during pregnancy including posture, pelvic floor, core muscles, rib flare, glute strength, hip mobility, bowel and bladder function and beyond. This small investment of time can have a long lasting impact on your health and wellbeing.
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Do I need anything for my appointment?
We ask all our clients to be in comfortable clothing so that you can move freely. You may also like to have water nearby and a mat to lay on, but if you don't own an exercise mat then just a comfortable space on the floor for yourself is fine.
If your little one is joining us, please have playmats, bottles, toys at the ready so we can keep them happy. Of course if they need a cuddle, changing, feeding etc. we will make the session work with their needs in mind.
