We run our Pregnancy and the Pelvic Floor Seminar in Wellington, New Zealand every two months (or more often if needed). Our goal is simple: to educate and empower women so you can make informed decisions, protect your pelvic floor, and feel confident as you prepare for pregnancy, birth, and beyond.
This seminar is designed to complement, not replace, antenatal classes. While antenatal classes cover the big picture of pregnancy and birth, our focus is specifically on the pelvic floor, reducing risk of birth trauma, and supporting recovery.
We’ll explore not only vaginal birth and pelvic floor injuries, but also what happens when labour leads to a Caesarean section — an outcome that can sometimes feel traumatic too. You’ll learn strategies for healing and recovery, no matter what kind of birth you experience.
This 2-hour seminar is designed to be practical, supportive, and evidence-based. Here’s a closer look at what we’ll cover.
What You’ll Learn About the Pelvic Floor in Pregnancy
We’ll start with the basics:
- What the pelvic floor muscles are
- How they support your bladder, bowel, and uterus
- Why they matter so much during pregnancy and birth
We’ll explain how pregnancy affects the pelvic floor muscles, and why this matters for both birth and recovery. You’ll also learn how to activate and relax your pelvic floor correctly — because it’s not just about “squeezing.” Knowing how to use these muscles in the right way can make a big difference.
Understanding Birth Injuries
Birth is a natural process, but it can sometimes place strain on the pelvic floor. At the seminar, we’ll talk about the most common types of birth injuries during a vaginal delivery. Certain types of pelvic floor injury during childbirth may impact recovery if not managed.
This includes:
- Perineal tears
- Pelvic floor muscle or nerve damage
- Pelvic organ prolapse
We’ll explain what these mean, how they may affect recovery, and — importantly — what you can do to reduce your risk.
When Birth Leads to a Caesarean Section
While many women prepare for a vaginal birth, sometimes labour doesn’t go as planned and a Caesarean section (C-section) becomes necessary. For some, this can feel like a traumatic outcome, especially if it was unplanned or followed a difficult labour.
In our seminar, we’ll also talk about:
- Why a C-section may be required
- How this can affect recovery, both physically and emotionally
- Strategies to support healing — from scar care and gentle movement to safe return to activity
- When to seek help if pain, weakness, or anxiety continue after birth
Whether your birth is vaginal or by C-section, the pelvic floor and surrounding muscles still need attention — and recovery is always possible with the right guidance and support.
Pelvic Floor Risk Factors to Be Aware Of
Some women are at a higher chance of experiencing pelvic floor trauma. During the session, we’ll discuss the risk factors that may increase this likelihood during pregnancy.
Our aim is not to create fear, but to give you awareness. Knowing your personal risk factors helps you protect pelvic floor health in pregnancy and prepare for safer birth.
Self-Help Strategies to Protect the Pelvic Floor During Pregnancy
The seminar is packed with practical advice you can start using straight away. We’ll share self-help strategies that can support your pelvic floor before and during birth.
These are simple, practical tips you can use every day — and they’re the same strategies we teach in our clinic here in Wellington.”
Self-Care After Birth
Prioritising pelvic floor recovery after birth helps reduce long-term issues. We’ll cover what’s normal in the early weeks and what ’s not, so you know what to expect.
You’ll learn the key warning signs of pelvic floor injury, and we’ll also share simple self-help measures for comfort and healing in the early days.
When and Where to Get Help for the Pelvic Floor
One of the most important parts of the evening is learning when to seek help.
We’ll talk about:
- What a postnatal pelvic health check involves
- How pelvic physiotherapists assess and guide safe recovery
- The best timing for returning to exercise
- Lifestyle modifications that can support your long-term pelvic health
Knowing when and where to reach out means you don’t have to struggle in silence — support is available. Our team offers pelvic floor physiotherapy in pregnancy and postnatally here in Wellington, so you can recover safely with expert support.
Why Attend Our Pregnancy and the Pelvic Floor Seminar
This isn’t a lecture — it’s an interactive, supportive evening where you can ask questions and gain practical tools to take home.
✨ Run every two months (or more often if needed)
✨ Small group setting with time for questions
✨ Evidence-based information presented clearly
✨ Hosted by two of Wellington’s leading pelvic health physiotherapists: Liz Childs and Stephanie Hansen
Our mission is to ensure you walk away feeling informed, supported, and confident heading into birth and recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the seminar be relevant if I’m planning or had a C-section?
Absolutely. While much of the focus is on the pelvic floor and vaginal birth, we also discuss Caesarean sections — why they may be needed, how they can feel, and most importantly, how to support your recovery afterwards. The pelvic floor is important in pregnancy regardless of your delivery method. The information on safe return to exercise, self-care strategies, and when to seek help applies to all birth experiences.
Can my partner come along?
Yes — partners are very welcome. Many find it helpful to learn how they can support recovery and understand what to expect after birth.
How often is the seminar run?
We hold the Pregnancy and the Pelvic Floor Seminar in Wellington every two months (and more often if there’s demand).
How do I book my spot?
It’s easy — call us on 04 802 4225 or email info@pelvicphysio.co.nz. Click here. Spaces are limited, so booking early is recommended.
Reserve Your Place
Spaces are limited to keep the group small and supportive.
📍 Location: Pelvic Health Physiotherapy, Level 3, Lumino House, 97-99 Courtenay Place, Wellington, New Zealand
⏰ Duration: 2 hours, 6-8pm – held on a Tuesday – upcoming dates 21 Oct 2025, 2 Dec 2025
💜 Cost: $30 per person or $60 per couple (partners welcome!)
👉 To book your spot, call 04 802 4225 or click here
Take the time to invest in yourself, your body, and your recovery. With the right knowledge, you can step into birth and beyond with confidence.
Further information and resources
ACC funding of birth injuries – click here
Birth Trauma Aotearoa – click here