Lower back pain and pelvic girdle pain are almost a rite of passage for many pregnant women -but the numbers might surprise you. Research shows 50–80% of women experience back pain during pregnancy, and pelvic girdle pain (PGP) affects more than half of expectant mothers, with 5–8% reporting severe pain and disability. The pain often peaks in the third trimester, thanks to hormonal changes (thankyou, Relaxin!), weight gain, and shifting posture (1).

The extent to which womens’ postures and movement patterns change after childbirth is somewhat ignored, possibly due to the fact that we do not measure the alignment and movement health of mothers until there are symptoms, if at all!

The changes are not necessarily due to pregnancy and childbirth but also the lifting and carrying that are necessary after childbirth. A proactive approach that routinely measures and prescribes personalised corrective exercise is needed - for everyone!

It is much easier to train a pain-free body, and to maintain an active lifestyle, both of which are positive for the physical and mental health of our beloved mothers.

Up to 70% of people don’t do their physical therapy exercises. They don’t feel involved, and feel a lack of control or what is called self-efficacy.