There are 2 different physiotherapy antenatal classes. Both are informal and fun.
The aim is to:
- improve your ability to manage any back or pelvic pain during pregnancy
- educate about the importance of pelvic floor muscle exercises
The classes run on alternate Mondays from 10am to midday. They take place in the antenatal education room at the antenatal clinic, St Thomas' Hospital.
You don't need to have back or pelvic pain to attend. All pregnant women are welcome. You only need to attend these classes once.
Back and pelvic pain class
The class includes a talk and chair-based exercise session led by a specialist physiotherapist.
The talk will cover the changes to your body during pregnancy and how this can cause muscle and joint pain. You will learn:
- the knowledge and skills to manage or prevent back and pelvic pain at home
- how to recognise the signs that mean you should see a pelvic health physiotherapist
If you are experiencing severe back and pelvic pain, you are still welcome to attend. Please also ask for a referral to the pelvic health physiotherapy department from your midwife, obstetrician or GP.
You should wear comfortable clothing appropriate for exercise.
Pelvic floor class
This class covers pelvic floor muscle training during pregnancy and beyond. The aim is to prevent common pelvic floor problems after the delivery of your baby.
It includes a talk about what pelvic floor muscles are, how they work and the effect on them from pregnancy and delivery.
You will learn:
- how pelvic floor muscle training can help different pelvic floor problems
- how to do pelvic floor muscle training
- when to start exercising following the delivery of your baby
- the signs that mean you should see a pelvic health physiotherapist
If you are experiencing pelvic floor problems, you can still attend the class. Please also ask for a referral to the pelvic health physiotherapy department and named obstetrician.
How to book
Please email antenatalphysiotherapyclass@gstt.nhs.uk to book your place.
If you have any questions, please call 020 7188 5084 for further guidance.