Pregnancy and Postpartum Physiotherapy in Sydney’s Inner West

Strong support for your body through pregnancy, childbirth and beyond.

At Movement Laboratory, we believe your body deserves expert care through each stage of motherhood. From the early changes of pregnancy to recovery after birth, our team of women’s-health physiotherapists helps you feel comfortable, confident and empowered.

We blend personalised assessment, hands-on treatment and movement education to support your body now and into the future.

During pregnancy and after birth, your body deserves thoughtful, expert care from experienced women’s health physiotherapists

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Clinical Pilates

Exercises designed to strengthen your core, improve posture, and enhance stability through each stage of pregnancy and recovery.

Pelvic Floor Assessment
Pelvic Floor Assessment

A personalised assessment to help you understand, strengthen, and protect your pelvic floor before and after birth.

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Women’s Health Physiotherapy

Targeted treatment to relieve back or pelvic pain, manage abdominal separation, and support recovery after childbirth.

Pregnancy Massage
Pregnancy Massage

Safe, relaxing massage therapy to ease tension, reduce swelling, and promote calm during pregnancy.

Common Pregnancy Conditions We Treat

Our pregnancy physio sessions are customised for each woman we work with. We assess your physical condition and understand your goals, concerns, and possible health issues to create a personalised pregnancy physiotherapy plan.

Our maternity physios are experienced in addressing a range of common issues that can arise during pregnancy.

Pubic bone pain
Incontinence
Gestational diabetes
Lower back, sciatica
Painful intercourse
High-risk placenta position
Rib dysfunctions
Heavy vaginal sensation
Concerns about exercise
Posture changes
If you’re unsure whether physiotherapy is right for you, our team can help assess your needs and recommend the best next step.
After birth, your body deserves the same level of care and attention as during pregnancy. Our postpartum physiotherapy services are designed to support your recovery, rebuild strength, and restore confidence.

Common Postpartum Conditions We Treat

Our postpartum physiotherapy sessions are tailored to support your recovery after birth, no matter how your delivery unfolded. 

We take the time to understand your birth experience, current symptoms, lifestyle, and goals to create a personalised postpartum rehabilitation plan that meets you where you are.

Abdominal separation
2nd and 3rd degree tears
Uncertainty about return to exercise
Mastitis
Incontinence
Baby carrying
Back pain
Prolapse

Treatment Methods

Our physiotherapists use evidence-based techniques designed for pregnancy and postpartum recovery.

Hands-on treatment: joint mobilisation, scar-tissue therapy, gentle manual techniques.
Targeted tools: pelvic-floor biofeedback, real-time ultrasound assessment, movement screening.
Active rehabilitation: tailored exercise programs including Clinical Pilates-based strength, posture and load-management training.
Education and prevention: lifestyle and posture advice, breath and core coordination, long-term pelvic-health strategy.
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Specialised Pregnancy and Postpartum Programs

EMBRACE Program

For your second trimester through to 6 months postpartum, we provide a physiotherapy-guided treatment program to take care of all aspects of your pelvic health and empower you through this period with confidence.

Mama Clinical Studio Circuit Class

Reconnect with your body through pregnancy and postpartum with safe, guided movement that builds strength and stability. These classes are designed to support your changing body, reduce discomfort, and help you feel confident as you move through every stage of motherhood.

What to expect at your first appointment

Your first session is all about understanding you and where you’re heading.

Assessment
Assessment

We’ll talk through your pregnancy or birth history, current symptoms and goals, then perform a physical and pelvic floor assessment where appropriate.

Education
Education

We’ll explain how your body is adapting, what may be contributing to your symptoms and how our treatment will help.

Treatment Plan
Treatment Plan

You’ll leave with a clear roadmap including stages, goals and exercises tailored to you.

Movement Laboratory Physio, Inner West

With two locations in Inner West Sydney, Movement Laboratory is your go-to local physio if you’re in the Inner West. We’re proud to bring our experience in pain-free movement to the communities of Leichhardt, Rozelle, Balmain, Summer Hill, Annandale, Lilyfield, Stanmore, Haberfield, Lewisham, and Petersham.

Newtown

Great for people living and working in surrounding areas like Rozelle, Balmain, Summer Hill, Annandale, Lilyfield, Stanmore, Haberfield, Lewisham, and Petersham.

Opening Hours:

Mon. – Thurs. : 7am- 8pm
Fri. & Sat. : 7am- 2pm

Papaya

Great for people living and working in surrounding areas like Rozelle, Balmain, Summer Hill, Annandale, Lilyfield, Stanmore, Haberfield, Lewisham, and Petersham.

Opening Hours:

Mon. – Thurs. : 7:30am- 7:30pm
Fri. : 7:30am – 5pm
Sat. : 8am- 1pm

5.0
Based on 169 reviews
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Maritsa Macpherson profile pictureMaritsa Macpherson
21:12 14 Mar 26
First session with Alex May, myofascial therapist at Movement Laboratory and it was firm but gentle. Alex knows muscles and pain and how to release tension without causing more pain. I left feeling taller and more relaxed. Can’t wait to see him again for more painless relief.
Gordon McBean profile pictureGordon McBean
04:01 13 Mar 26
Emily has been a fantastic physio. Calm, methodical, compassionate and knowledgeable. She has provided a clear treatment plan that has helped me get moving again after some complex health challenges. Would highly recommend.
Daniela Falecki profile pictureDaniela Falecki
21:46 11 Mar 26
I’d happily recommend Justin to anyone dealing with ongoing pain. After seeing three different physios over the past 12 months for my lower back, things were actually getting worse. I kept being told to “stretch more,” but nothing was really improving.

Justin took a completely different approach. He really listened—both to what I was saying and to what my body was telling him. Instead of just treating the symptoms, he worked to understand and address the underlying causes of the pain.

The difference has been incredible. I can now move freely again without the constant discomfort that had become part of daily life.

Justin has been an absolute godsend. If you’re feeling stuck or frustrated with ongoing pain, I can’t recommend him highly enough.
Anastasya Lonergan profile pictureAnastasya Lonergan
05:22 04 Mar 26
I have been attending Movement Lab as a client of Alex May for pregnancy massage since my second trimester. The service has been really excellent. Alex is skilled, professional, friendly and holistic in his approach. I have really appreciated being able to go somewhere with a focus on client care and ensuring safe practice. Would seriously recommend!
Bianca Ducharme profile pictureBianca Ducharme
11:01 01 Mar 26
I started seeing Justin for ongoing aches on the left side of my body — my neck, lower back, and hip. Previously, it felt like other physiotherapists focused only on the symptoms, but Justin took a completely different approach. He assessed and treated my body as a whole.

He began by addressing my nervous system and breathing patterns before introducing targeted exercises to correct muscle imbalances, along with craniosacral therapy. The difference has been significant.

I truly can’t recommend him enough. I only wish I had found him sooner. Each session has helped me better understand my body, and I finally feel empowered to move beyond the aches I’d been carrying for so long.
Briana Russell profile pictureBriana Russell
02:30 07 Jan 26
I was advised by my Obstetrician to see a physio and was seen by Emily, who was extremely knowledgable, friendly and made me feel comfortable throughout our assessment. She provided a clear outline for my ongoing treatment and answered all my questions clearly. I would highly recommend Movement Laboratory Physiotherapy, Leichhardt.
keisha galbraith profile picturekeisha galbraith
05:01 04 Nov 25
Had my first appointment with Emma yesterday as a newly pregnant woman with chronic pain. We went through my medical history in appropriate and not invasive detail.
I feel really good about moving forwards working with her.
Walking is MUCH easier today. Thank you
Erica Marquez profile pictureErica Marquez
00:46 01 Oct 25
I’m pregnant and wanted to see a women’s specific physiotherapist to optimise my body for birth. I see EJ and I feel very comfortable with her. She conducts thorough assessments and listens to my concerns. Her support and encouragement is invaluable which always leaves me feeling empowered.

She explained every step of the treatment process clearly, ensuring I understood the purpose behind each exercise and technique.

I highly recommend this practice if you’re after a women’s focused physiotherapist. They even offer remedial massage which I am yet to book in.
sam yildirim profile picturesam yildirim
09:41 11 Aug 25
I had an incredibly positive experience with my physiotherapy following surgery. From the very first session, the team was supportive, knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to helping me recover. They created a personalised plan that really worked for me, and I noticed steady progress every week.
Thank you Movement Laboratory Leichhardt team.
tele jele profile picturetele jele
02:33 09 Sep 23
Anastasia is the most wonderful physiotherapist who helped us recover and improve our mobility and strength in record time. Highly recommend!
Sara Page profile pictureSara Page
01:43 08 Sep 23
I saw the lovely Shannon for my first consult today. She was extremely professional, knowledgeable and patient. The lovely reception staff were also amazing! Thank you team!!
Emma Powell profile pictureEmma Powell
11:14 07 Sep 23
The team are so wonderful and lovely to be around. They make your recovery feel effortless and no set backs are ever taken negatively. Thanks team!
paul nelson profile picturepaul nelson
03:30 04 Sep 23
I have loved my visits to Movement Laboratory. Alannah has really helped me on my journey to overcome back pain. Highly recommend
Min Zhuo profile pictureMin Zhuo
07:39 31 Aug 23
Anastasia is very patient and informative in my daughter’s point assessment. It was great to have someone guide us through this journey. Thank you
Karla Komene profile pictureKarla Komene
06:46 02 Aug 23
This place was amazing I was so happy about how I was treated and looked after . I liked how everything was explained to me and it made sense . I was grateful when I told my symptoms to the lovely lady she knew what I was talking about and ways we could improve things and that I wasn’t alone. Also I felt that the environment was pleasant calm and relaxing which is what I needed. I have already taken a few work cards to pass out to some ladies I know . Thank you ???? Looking forward to moving forward
Mark Westman profile pictureMark Westman
10:18 05 Jul 23
Anastasia is a miracle worker! I'm a keen runner and I started seeing her a few months ago after a couple of broken backs and a (new) torn hammy. She diagnosed my hammy problem quickly and efficiently, provided immediate relief through some deep massage to allow me to survive a few more important runs before my wedding (honeymoon = rest), and has helped me rebuild through focused strength work and home exercises. She obviously cares about her patients and enjoys helping them achieve their goals. I'm now running regularly and pain free again! Thanks Anastasia 🙂

Start your pre and postnatal journey with us today.

Every pregnancy and recovery journey is different. Let us help you move through yours with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find our most frequently asked questions about what to expect, what to bring and how much an appointment will cost below. If you cannot find what you’re after feel free to contact us via the form on this page or Contact Us. We are here to help!

Pregnancy and postpartum physiotherapy are specialised forms of physiotherapy tailored to address the unique physical and hormonal changes women experience during pregnancy and after childbirth.

This includes managing discomforts like back pain, strengthening the pelvic floor, and aiding in overall recovery post-delivery. Physio for postpartum specifically focuses on helping new mothers regain their strength and wellness, ensuring a smoother transition into motherhood.

A pregnancy physiotherapist specialises in caring for women during and after pregnancy. They provide guidance and treatment for managing the physical changes and challenges associated with pregnancy.

This includes helping with pain management (like back pain or pelvic pain), providing exercises to strengthen the body in preparation for childbirth, offering pelvic floor therapy, and advising on safe exercise routines. They also play an important role in postpartum recovery, helping new mothers regain strength and address any physical issues arising from childbirth.

During your first visit, your Sydney pregnancy physio will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your health, discuss any concerns or symptoms you’re experiencing, and outline your medical history. This session is also an opportunity for you to set goals and for the therapist to develop a tailored treatment plan.

A typical treatment session usually lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. The duration can vary depending on the type of treatment you’re receiving and your specific needs.

Generally, you don’t need a doctor’s referral to see a pregnancy/postpartum physiotherapist. However, if you’re planning to claim the service on health insurance, some policies may require a referral. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider.

For your first session, wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement. It’s also helpful to bring any relevant medical records or information about your pregnancy and health history. Be prepared to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and goals for therapy.

It’s beneficial to start pregnancy physiotherapy as soon as you feel comfortable. Many women begin in their second trimester, but it’s never too late to start. Early engagement can help in better managing the physical changes and preparing your body for childbirth.

Yes, physiotherapy can be extremely beneficial in C-section recovery. It focuses on healing the abdominal area, restoring core strength, and providing gentle exercises to help overall recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

It’s generally recommended to see a physiotherapist within the first 6 weeks after birth, especially if you’re considering physio for postpartum recovery. The exact timing can vary depending on your individual circumstances and the type of delivery you had.

For those who had a C-section or complicated birth, it might be beneficial to see a physiotherapist earlier. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.

Yes! Our physiotherapy treatments are safe and are conducted by experienced professionals specialising in women’s health. We make sure that all exercises and treatments are suitable for your stage of pregnancy or postpartum recovery.

The frequency of sessions varies depending on individual needs and conditions. Generally, a regular schedule is recommended, which can be adjusted as needed. We’ll work with you to determine the best plan for your specific situation.

While physiotherapy primarily focuses on physical health, the benefits can positively impact emotional well-being. Feeling physically stronger and managing discomfort can improve mood and reduce stress, contributing to overall emotional health.