More and more women are learning about pelvic floor physical therapy. Hopefully, OBGYNs are recommending it to their pregnant and postpartum patients. According to Lindsay Moses, Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Her Body PT, postpartum physical therapy is considered the standard of care for women having babies in many countries outside of the US. Below, Dr. Moses shares five common reasons women seek treatment during the postpartum period.

1. Diastasis Recti – This is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, those that run vertically along the front of the stomach, during and after pregnancy. By the end of the 3rd trimester, most women have diastasis recti due to the growing baby stretching the abdominal wall. Although not dangerous in and of itself, it can be indicative of core weakness. When someone has a weak core, they are more at risk for developing musculoskeletal issues such as low back pain. Core strength and stability are crucial for optimizing our physical health and well-being both in the short and long term.