Pelvic Health Physiotherapy in Pregnancy: Why I Recommend Seeing Laura
By Dr Stephen Cole
As an obstetrician, I see first-hand how much pregnancy places on a woman’s body — not just internally, but through the pelvis, spine, core, and pelvic floor. While these changes are normal, pain, dysfunction, or ongoing issues are not something women should feel they simply have to put up with.
That’s why I strongly encourage my patients to see Laura, our Pelvic Health Physiotherapist from Scence Physiotherapy, as part of their pregnancy and postpartum care. Pelvic health physiotherapy plays a vital role in supporting comfort during pregnancy, preparing the body for birth, and improving recovery afterwards.
Meet Laura – Our Specialist Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Laura is a highly qualified pelvic health and pregnancy physiotherapist who works closely with our team at Dr Stephen Cole’s East Melbourne clinic.
She holds a Bachelor of Applied Science, a Master of Physiotherapy Practice, and a Graduate Certificate in Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy, giving her advanced expertise in women’s pelvic health, pregnancy-related pain, and postpartum recovery.
What sets Laura apart is her individualised, evidence-based approach. She takes the time to understand each woman’s pregnancy, birth history, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals — ensuring care is practical, respectful, and genuinely helpful.
The Benefits of Pelvic Health Physiotherapy During Pregnancy
Seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist during pregnancy is not just about treating pain — it’s about supporting your body as it adapts and preparing it for birth.
Laura can assist with:
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Pelvic floor assessment and optimisation
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Pelvic girdle, hip and lower back pain
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Core strength and postural support
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Safe pregnancy exercise guidance
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Breathing, mobility and preparation for labour
Many women find that early physiotherapy input helps them stay more comfortable, remain active for longer, and feel more confident approaching birth.
Postpartum Recovery and Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
After birth, pelvic health physiotherapy is equally important — yet often overlooked.
Laura provides expert support for:
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Pelvic floor weakness or dysfunction
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Bladder or bowel leakage
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Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms
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Abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
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Safe return to exercise and daily activities
Early assessment and rehabilitation can significantly improve long-term pelvic health and reduce ongoing issues later in life.
Reduced Fees with an EPC / Chronic Disease Management Plan
One of the biggest barriers to accessing physiotherapy is cost — and this is where Medicare can help.
If you see your GP for a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) or Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) referral, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates on pelvic health physiotherapy sessions.
How an EPC referral helps:
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Medicare contributes towards the cost of eligible physiotherapy sessions
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This reduces your out-of-pocket fees
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It makes ongoing care more accessible during pregnancy and postpartum
How to access it:
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Book an appointment with your GP
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Ask about a CDM / EPC referral for physiotherapy
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Bring the referral to your appointment with Laura
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Medicare rebates are applied to eligible visits
Our reception team is always happy to help guide patients through this process.
Integrated Pregnancy Care in East Melbourne
Pelvic health physiotherapy with Laura is part of the multidisciplinary pregnancy care offered at Dr Stephen Cole’s clinic, working alongside obstetric care, midwifery support, and lactation services.
This collaborative approach allows us to support not just a healthy pregnancy and birth — but a stronger, more confident recovery afterwards.
Book an Appointment or Find Out More
If you’re pregnant, postpartum, or planning a pregnancy and would like to see a pelvic health physiotherapist in East Melbourne, we encourage you to book an appointment with Laura.
📞 Contact our clinic on 03 9416 2802 to learn more about pelvic health physiotherapy or Medicare rebates via an EPC referral.