Birth Recovery
Perineal Recovery
Recovering after a vaginal birth is about more than waiting for stitches to heal.
- No referral required
- Evidence-based care
- All types of birth
- Albany, WA
About this condition
Recovery after a vaginal birth
Whether you had a small tear, an episiotomy or a more significant birth injury (OASI), recovery involves healing the muscles, connective tissue and pelvic floor. We support women recovering from all types of vaginal birth — reducing pain, improving healing and restoring confidence.
Signs & symptoms
Common symptoms
- Pain with sitting
- Swelling or bruising
- Scar sensitivity or burning
- Pelvic heaviness
- Difficulty opening your bowels
- Urinary leakage
- Pain with intercourse
- Fear of movement
Your healing timeline
What to expect
- First 2 weeks: rest, gentle walking, good bowel habits
- 2–6 weeks: tissue healing, gentle pelvic floor exercises
- Beyond 6 weeks: scar massage, rehab, return to exercise
- Support returning to intimacy when you're ready
How we help
How physiotherapy helps
Gentle, staged support — from early healing through to returning to exercise and intimacy.
Scar management
Improve mobility, comfort and sensitivity.
Pelvic floor rehab
Rebuild strength, endurance and coordination.
Return to intimacy
A comfortable, gradual return at your pace.
Return to exercise
Safely rebuild toward running and sport.
Explore
Related conditions
Get started
Ready to take the next step?
Book a postnatal pelvic health assessment and recover with confidence.
Recommended Products
Products that may help
Selected by our pelvic health physiotherapists. Browse the full shop →