What’s the Difference and Which Do You Need?
Here’s the truth no one tells you: birth changes everything, not just your heart but your body, too. Whether you had a C-section or a vaginal birth, whether it was smooth or complicated, your body has carried and delivered life. And yet, when the six-week checkup is done, many of us are left wondering: What now? Who helps me recover from here?
That’s when the terms postnatal massage therapist and postpartum physical therapist often pop up. Both sound helpful, both deal with recovery, but they’re not the same. And knowing the difference can be the key to getting the right support for your unique healing journey.
What a Postnatal Massage Therapist Does
A postnatal massage therapist focuses on physical comfort, relaxation, and gentle healing after pregnancy and birth. Their goal is to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and help your body relax during the postpartum period.
Benefits of postnatal massage may include:
- Relieving back, shoulder, and neck pain from breastfeeding or holding your baby
- Reducing swelling and fluid retention after birth
- Supporting hormone balance by lowering stress levels
- Improving sleep quality (yes, even short naps feel deeper after a massage!)
- Easing anxiety and stress that can contribute to postpartum depression symptoms
👉 Tip for Moms: Look for a massage therapist certified in postnatal or perinatal massage, not just general massage. They’ll understand the safety precautions you need after birth.
What a Postpartum Physical Therapist Does
A postpartum physical therapist (sometimes called a pelvic floor therapist) focuses on restoring function, strength, and mobility to your body after pregnancy and delivery. Unlike massage, this is more clinical and rehabilitative.
A postpartum physical therapist can help with:
- Pelvic floor dysfunction (leaking urine, pain, or heaviness)
- Healing diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation)
- Scar tissue recovery (C-section or perineal tears)
- Back, hip, or pelvic pain related to pregnancy and delivery
- Guidance on safe return to exercise and daily movement
👉 Tip for Moms: If you’re experiencing pain, leaking, or difficulty with movement even months after birth, don’t ignore it. This isn’t “just part of motherhood.” A postpartum physical therapist can help you heal properly.
Key Differences Between Massage Therapy and Physical Therapy
Both therapies fall under postpartum care, but their focus is different:
| Postnatal Massage Therapist | Postpartum Physical Therapist |
|---|---|
| Focuses on relaxation & stress relief | Focuses on function, strength & rehab |
| Uses touch for circulation, comfort, and stress reduction | Uses exercises, manual therapy & education |
| Great for relieving tension and emotional stress | Great for addressing long-term physical recovery |
| May help lower anxiety and support mental health | May resolve pain, leakage, and mobility issues |
Think of it this way: a postnatal massage therapist soothes your body and calms your mind, while a postpartum physical therapist rebuilds and strengthens your foundation for long-term health.
Which One Do You Need After Birth?
The answer depends on your symptoms and recovery goals:
-
Choose Postnatal Massage if you’re feeling:
- Overwhelmed, tense, or emotionally drained
- Sore from breastfeeding or carrying the baby
- Anxious and needing stress relief
-
Choose Postpartum Physical Therapy if you’re experiencing:
- Leaking urine when sneezing or coughing
- Back, hip, or pelvic pain
- Core weakness or visible abdominal separation
- Trouble resuming daily activities or exercise
Many moms benefit from both. Massage can reduce stress and support emotional healing, while physical therapy ensures your body recovers fully from pregnancy and birth.
Steps for Moms in Postpartum Recovery
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Listen to Your Body
Don’t dismiss pain, leakage, or fatigue as “normal.” If something feels off, it deserves attention. -
Start with an Assessment
Book a consultation with a postpartum care provider who specializes in recovery. Even one visit with a physical therapist can give you a roadmap. -
Add Relaxation to Your Plan
Healing isn’t only physical. A postnatal massage can lower stress hormones and ease postpartum anxiety, helping you feel calmer and more grounded. -
Join a Support Group
Look for postpartum support groups near me or connect with virtual circles. Hearing other moms’ recovery stories can help you feel less alone. -
Build a Care Team
Recovery works best when it’s layered with your OB/GYN, a postpartum support professional, maybe a lactation consultant, plus massage or physical therapy as needed.
FAQs About Postnatal Massage Therapy vs Postpartum Physical Therapy
1. Is postnatal massage safe right after birth?
Yes, but timing depends on your birth. For vaginal births, most moms can safely have a gentle massage after a couple of weeks. For C-sections, you may need clearance from your provider before lying flat or working near scar tissue.
2. Can a postnatal massage therapist help with postpartum depression symptoms?
Massage can reduce stress hormones, improve sleep, and promote relaxation. While it doesn’t replace therapy, it can support recovery from postpartum depression and anxiety.
3. Do I need a referral to see a postpartum physical therapist?
In many places, no referral is needed. However, some insurance providers require it. Always check with your OB/GYN and your health plan.
4. How do I know if I need physical therapy after birth?
If you’re leaking urine, have pelvic pain, diastasis recti (ab separation), or ongoing back/hip pain, you’ll benefit from a postpartum physical therapist.
5. Can massage therapy fix diastasis recti?
No. Massage can ease tension and improve circulation, but won’t heal ab separation. That’s where postpartum physical therapy is most effective.
6. Can I see both a massage therapist and a physical therapist?
Yes! Many moms find that massage helps them relax while physical therapy addresses long-term recovery. Together, they make a powerful postpartum care team.
7. Will insurance cover postnatal massage or physical therapy?
Most insurance plans cover postpartum physical therapy, but not massage. However, some flexible health accounts (FSA/HSA) may allow reimbursement for massage with a doctor’s note.
8. What should I look for in a postpartum support professional?
Choose providers trained in pregnancy and postpartum care. Ask about their certifications, experience with birth recovery, and comfort addressing sensitive concerns.
9. Are there postpartum support groups near me that recommend these therapies?
Yes. Many postpartum support groups connect moms to local massage therapists, physical therapists, doulas, and more. Platforms like Momkinz postpartum support can help you find trusted options nearby.
10. How soon can I return to exercise after postpartum physical therapy?
Your therapist will guide you based on your healing. Some moms start gentle exercises a few weeks postpartum, while others need more time, especially aftera C-section or pelvic trauma.
Your Healing Matters, Mama
Postpartum isn’t just about surviving; it’s about finding ways to truly heal physically, emotionally, and mentally. A postnatal massage therapist can comfort and calm your body, while a postpartum physical therapist can rebuild your strength and function. Both play valuable roles in your recovery.
At Momkinz, we believe no mom should face postpartum recovery alone. That’s why we connect you with trusted postpartum care providers, support professionals, and support groups near you so you can build the care team you deserve.
👉 Explore Momkinz postpartum support today and take the next step in your healing journey. Because your recovery matters, Mama.
