The importance of a Mummy MOT® : A Comprehensive Post-Natal Check-Up
Becoming a mum is a transformative experience, filled with joy, challenges, and significant physical changes. After giving birth, the primary focus for most new mums is on their newborn and it’s common to forget about their own health and recovery. This is where the Mummy MOT ® comes in – a specialised post-natal check-up designed to ensure new mums are healing properly and regaining their strength.
What is the Mummy MOT® ?
The Mummy MOT is a detailed post-natal assessment conducted by a specialist physiotherapist. It is most useful from around six weeks after delivery, but it’s never too late to book one, even years after childbirth. This comprehensive check-up evaluates the health of your pelvic floor, abdominal muscles, posture, and overall post partum physical well-being.
This hour long appointment is designated time just for you to address specific concerns, make targeted goals and devise a plan on how to get there. Sarah is a certified Mummy MOT® practitioner and has trained with founder Maria Elliot, she has carrying out Mummy MOT® assessments for 9 years since training in London.
Why is the Mummy MOT Important?
Childbirth, whether vaginal or via c-section, places a tremendous strain on a woman’s body. Common post-natal issues include pelvic floor dysfunction, diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles), back pain, and incontinence. These conditions can significantly impact quality of life. The Mummy MOT ® aims to identify these issues early and provide a tailored treatment plan to address them.
Unfortunately, it is recognised that some symptoms related to pregnancy and childbirth can linger if not addressed in a timely way and can become more problematic with subsequent pregnancies and age. This is especially relevant to pelvic floor issues such as urinary dysfunction. However, research supports the non-surgical management of such conditions to enable women to be able to overcome issues and optimise their recovery. Exercising in the right way can positively impact recovery and strength post childbirth.
What to Expect During a Mummy MOT®
During a Mummy MOT® , the physiotherapist will conduct several assessments:
- Thorough questioning and history taking: A mummy MOT® will always start with a thorough understanding of any underlying conditions, specific activities or sports you want to return to and an understanding of your mode of delivery and recovery so far.
- Pelvic Floor Examination: This checks for any signs of weakness, prolapse, or dysfunction. Pelvic floor health is crucial for preventing incontinence and ensuring overall stability and support for your core. The examination often includes an internal check to accurately assess the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles.
- Abdominal Muscle Check: Sarah will assess for diastasis recti, which is common after pregnancy. Identifying and addressing this separation can be important for restoring abdominal strength and function. An abdominal assessment will include examination of muscle tension and the ability to manage change in pressure, providing exercises to best manage this as needed.
- Posture and Alignment Assessment: Pregnancy and childbirth can alter your posture. Sarah will examine your alignment to help correct any imbalances that may cause pain or discomfort. This assessment includes looking at your spinal alignment, shoulder positioning, and hip alignment.
- Breathing Technique Analysis: Optimal breathing techniques are essential for core stability, pressure management and pelvic floor health. Sarah will ensure you are breathing correctly to support your recovery.
- General Physical Health Check: This includes discussing any pain, discomfort, or other concerns you may have, and assessing your overall fitness and readiness to return to exercise. Sarah will also consider any other health issues that may affect your recovery, such as pre-existing conditions or complications during delivery.
Benefits of the Mummy MOT®
The Mummy MOT ® provides numerous benefits for new mothers:
- Early Detection of Issues: By identifying problems early, you can begin treatment promptly, reducing the risk of long-term complications. Early intervention is key to effective recovery and can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
- Personalised Treatment Plan: Each Mummy MOT ® results in a tailored exercise and rehabilitation program designed to meet your specific needs and recovery goals. This plan includes exercises to strengthen weak muscles, improve posture, and enhance overall physical function.
- Improved Confidence and Well-being: Addressing physical issues can significantly improve your confidence and ability to care for your baby, enhancing your overall well-being. Knowing that you are taking steps to recover properly can alleviate anxiety and help you feel more in control.
- Guidance on Safe Exercise: Many new mothers are eager to return to their pre-pregnancy fitness routines. The Mummy MOT® provides guidance on safely resuming exercise, ensuring you don’t overexert yourself and cause further injury. This advice includes gradual progression and modifications to accommodate your current fitness level.
- Support and Reassurance: Having a dedicated time to discuss your concerns and get professional advice can be incredibly reassuring. The physiotherapist can answer your questions, provide practical tips, and offer emotional support, helping you navigate the post-natal period with confidence.
Real-Life Success Stories
“The Mummy MOT® was amazing. Everyone who has a baby should get this automatically. I can’t recommend Baslow Physiotherapy highly enough, Sarah is knowledgeable and friendly and although parts of the appointment could be awkward she always made me feel at ease. Thank you!” Louise
“I can’t recommend Sarah highly enough. I saw her for a postnatal check following the birth of my first baby, to check out a few niggles and advise on returning to exercise. Sarah is lovely and immediately put me at ease. On my first visit she carried out a thorough assessment and provided personalised exercises to prepare me for returning to CrossFit and running. I booked a follow up appointment and am so pleased with my progress. I’m recommending Sarah to all of my friends with new babies, as these appointments have been absolutely invaluable to me. She’s great!” Lauren
Conclusion
Ensuring you receive a comprehensive post-natal check-up like the Mummy MOT® can make a world of difference in your recovery. It’s an investment in your health and well-being, setting you up for a strong and confident start to motherhood. Prioritise your health, seek the support you need, and embrace the journey of recovery with the help of a Mummy MOT® .