Pregnancy Model of Care

Physiotherapy & Pilates Support for Every Stage of Pregnancy – Jervis Bay

At Balanced Physiotherapy & Pilates in Jervis Bay, we offer a proactive, evidence-based approach to caring for women during pregnancy. Our Pregnancy Model of Care provides physiotherapy support, pelvic floor education, and prenatal Pilates tailored to each stage — from early pregnancy to postnatal recovery.

We focus on prevention, not just treatment. Whether you’re experiencing pelvic girdle pain, preparing your pelvic floor for birth, or wanting to stay strong and mobile, our team is here to guide you with personalised care that adapts as your body changes.

Why We Created This Model

At Balanced Physiotherapy & Pilates, we believe every woman deserves the opportunity to understand and care for her pelvic floor during pregnancy — and beyond. Research suggests that certain qualities of the pelvic floor muscles, such as overactivity, incoordination, or lack of relaxation, may increase the risk of birth-related injuries. Early assessment allows us to identify these factors and provide individualised education, exercises, and strategies to help reduce that risk.

| Learn more about how to prepare your pelvic floor for birth

We also recognise the importance of strength and movement. Pregnancy can bring discomfort, postural changes, and new physical demands. Our physiotherapists use targeted strengthening and mobility strategies — including prenatal Pilates — to help you manage pain, move with confidence, and prepare for both birth and the physical challenges of motherhood.

Our model is designed to support you at every stage — from early pregnancy to postnatal recovery and beyond — with personalised, evidence-based care that puts your wellbeing first.

What’s Included

Our pregnancy care includes:

  • Pelvic floor assessment and education to reduce your risk of injury during birth

  • Musculoskeletal physiotherapy for pain such as pelvic girdle pain, back pain, or rib discomfort

  • Prenatal Pilates and movement classes guided by physiotherapists

  • Birth preparation education including pushing technique, perineal massage, and pelvic floor relaxation

  • Postnatal follow-up care to support your recovery and return to exercise

We support women across Jervis Bay with pregnancy physiotherapy services tailored to each stage, including pelvic floor physio, postnatal care and prenatal Pilates classes.

Timeline of care

Here’s how we can support you across your pregnancy and postnatal journey:

    • Initial Physiotherapy Consultation (as required)
       Treatment for body aches and pains or assessment of any pelvic floor symptoms.

    • General Pilates Classes (if cleared), or prenatal Pilates classes
       Gentle movement to maintain strength, reduce fatigue, and support mental wellbeing.

    • Clinical/Remedial Pilates
       For women with more complex needs or pain that limits participation in group classes.

    • Early Education
       Guidance on bladder and bowel health and early pregnancy postural changes.

    • Entry into Prenatal Pilates Classes
       Safe, physio-led Pilates to build core and pelvic floor strength, support posture, and reduce common discomforts.

    • From 20 Weeks – Pelvic Floor Assessment
       A one-on-one pelvic floor appointment to assess coordination, relaxation, and strength. We use this to identify any risk factors for birth-related injury.
       | Learn how to prepare your pelvic floor for birth

    • Individual Physiotherapy Sessions (as required)
       For pelvic girdle pain, back pain, or abdominal separation (DRAM).

    • Clinical/Remedial Pilates
       For women with more complex needs or pain that limits participation in group classes.

    • Continued Prenatal Pilates Classes
       Modified exercises to maintain strength and mobility, and manage pelvic pressure or fatigue.

    • 32 Weeks – Birth Preparation Appointment
       Includes education on perineal massage, pushing strategies, and pelvic floor relaxation techniques.

    • Ongoing Physiotherapy (as required)
       Support for pain, pelvic floor symptoms, or general comfort in late pregnancy.

    • Clinical/Remedial Pilates
       For women with more complex needs or pain that limits participation in group classes.

    • 2 Weeks Postnatal – Telehealth Check-In
       A brief review of your recovery, and any early questions or concerns.

    • 6 Weeks Postnatal – In-Person Physiotherapy Assessment
       Pelvic floor and abdominal wall assessment, scar management, and return-to-exercise planning.

    • 6+ Weeks Postnatal – Entry into Postnatal Pilates
       Safe, guided movement to rebuild strength, support pelvic floor recovery, and return to functional movement or higher-level exercise.