Written by Sanderstead Osteopaths. Clinically reviewed by Judith Tardif, Registered Osteopath.
A Mummy MOT assessment is designed to give you a clear understanding of how your body is functioning after pregnancy and childbirth.
It is not just a general postnatal check. It is a structured assessment that looks at how your posture, spine, pelvis, core, abdominal wall, pelvic floor and movement patterns are working together.
At Sanderstead Osteopaths, we use this assessment to understand what has recovered well, what may still need support, and whether your body is compensating during everyday movements such as lifting, feeding, carrying, bending, walking and returning to exercise.
Many postnatal symptoms are connected. Lower back pain, pelvic discomfort, leaking, abdominal doming, weak core control, neck tension and shoulder pain may seem like separate problems, but they often relate to how the body is managing load, pressure and movement after pregnancy.
A Mummy MOT helps identify where those issues may be coming from, so your recovery plan is based on how your body is actually functioning.
Clinical note: Our postnatal assessments are based on your symptoms, history, movement, function and recovery goals. They do not replace urgent medical care, GP advice, midwife support or emergency assessment where those are needed.
A Structured Postnatal Assessment, Not Just a General Check
A Mummy MOT looks beyond surface-level recovery. You may feel comfortable at rest, but still notice symptoms when lifting, walking, exercising, coughing, feeding or carrying your baby.
Pregnancy and childbirth create changes across the body. Your abdominal wall stretches, your pelvic floor manages increased pressure, your posture adapts, and your spine and pelvis often change how they distribute load.
After birth, these systems do not always return to their previous function automatically. That is why the assessment looks at function, not just comfort.
Why the Assessment Looks Beyond Symptoms
Symptoms are important, but they are not always the full picture.
Lower back pain may be linked to reduced core stability. Neck and shoulder tension may be linked to feeding posture or upper back stiffness. Leaking may be linked to pelvic floor timing, pressure management or poor coordination between the pelvic floor and abdominal wall.
The symptom is often the final result of a wider movement or stability issue.
During a Mummy MOT, we look at the body as a connected system. This helps us understand whether pain, weakness or discomfort is being driven by posture, movement, pressure, muscle coordination, joint mobility or compensation patterns.
How We Assess Function, Movement and Recovery
Postnatal recovery is not only about whether tissues have healed. It is about whether the body can move, stabilise and manage load effectively.
During your assessment, we may look at how you stand, bend, lift, breathe, engage your core, control your pelvis and move through the spine. We also assess how the abdominal wall and pelvic floor appear to coordinate with the rest of the body.
The aim is to understand how your body is recovering and whether any part of the system is underperforming or overcompensating.
Been seeing Paul for a couple of months now for my neck pain, had been using another fairly local osteopaths before and didn’t really seem to be making any progress, but since finding here it’s been much better. I suffer really badly with tension in my neck which leads to real bad headaches, and can highly recommend this place for anyone who suffers the same issue as Paul has helped me massively.
DanNovember 28, 2023
What We Discuss Before the Physical Assessment
Before the physical assessment begins, we take time to understand your pregnancy, birth, recovery and current concerns.
This discussion gives context to what we see during the assessment. Two people may have the same symptom, but the reason behind it may be different.
Pregnancy, Birth & Postnatal Recovery History
We may ask whether you had a vaginal birth or C-section, whether there was tearing, stitches or scar tissue, whether you experienced pelvic girdle pain during pregnancy, and whether you have had back, hip, pelvic, neck or shoulder symptoms.
We may also ask whether you have noticed leaking, heaviness, reduced pelvic control, abdominal separation, doming, weak core control or difficulty returning to exercise.
This information helps our osteopaths understand what your body has been through and what areas may need closer assessment. It also helps us adapt the assessment to your stage of recovery, your comfort level and your goals.
Current Symptoms, Concerns & Daily Demands
Some symptoms appear during specific activities rather than at rest. This is useful because it helps us understand what your body is struggling to manage.
We may ask whether symptoms occur during lifting your baby, feeding, carrying, getting out of bed, walking, standing for long periods, coughing, sneezing, core exercises, running or impact activity.
We will also discuss what you want to return to. For some patients, the goal is to lift and carry comfortably. For others, it may be returning to Pilates, gym training, running, yoga, work, long walks or simply feeling stronger and more stable day to day.
If you feel unsure about whether your body is ready for exercise, or whether symptoms such as doming, leaking or pain are normal, the assessment can help clarify what is happening and what needs to improve before progression.
Posture, Spine & Pelvic Assessment
Pregnancy can change how the body holds and moves itself. As the centre of mass shifts forward, the lower back, pelvis, hips, abdominal wall and upper body all adapt.
After birth, some of those adaptations can remain.
During a Mummy MOT, we assess posture, spinal movement, pelvic position and load distribution. This helps us understand whether the body is moving efficiently or whether certain areas are working harder than they should.
Posture is not assessed to criticise how you stand. It is assessed because posture influences load, muscle activation and movement efficiency.
How Pregnancy Can Change Load & Alignment
During pregnancy, common changes may include an increased curve through the lower back, forward shift in body weight, altered pelvic position, reduced abdominal wall tension, increased demand on the pelvic floor, rounded shoulders or forward head posture.
These changes are normal during pregnancy. The issue is whether they remain after birth and continue to affect how the body moves.
If the pelvis stays tipped forward, the lower back may take more strain. If the abdominal wall is not generating enough support, the spine may compensate. If the upper back becomes stiff from feeding and carrying, the neck and shoulders may become overloaded.
What We Look for in the Lower Back & Pelvis
The lower back and pelvis play a central role in stability, load transfer and movement control.
During the assessment, we may look at pelvic alignment, lower back movement, hip mobility, sacroiliac joint function, muscle tension around the pelvis and spine, weight distribution and how the pelvis behaves during movement.
We are looking for signs of reduced mobility, instability, stiffness, compensation or excessive load.
If the core and pelvic floor are not coordinating well, the lower back and pelvis may take on more strain. This can contribute to pain when lifting, bending, standing, walking or exercising.
Core & Abdominal Wall Assessment
The abdominal wall helps support the spine, manage pressure and transfer load through the body.
During pregnancy, the abdominal wall stretches to accommodate the growing baby. After birth, the key question is whether it has regained enough tension, control and coordination to function well again.
This part of the assessment is particularly important if you feel your core is weak, unstable, disconnected or difficult to engage.
Checking for Diastasis Recti and Abdominal Separation
Diastasis recti is the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the connective tissue in the centre of the abdomen.
Some degree of separation during pregnancy is normal. The issue is whether the abdominal wall recovers enough tension and function after birth.
During the assessment, we may check whether separation is present, the width and depth of the separation, where it is located, how the abdominal wall responds during activation, whether doming or bulging occurs, and whether the tissue can generate tension.
This helps us understand how the abdominal wall is behaving, not just whether a gap exists.
If you need more detail on this specific issue, our diastasis recti assessment page explains how abdominal separation can affect core stability and pressure management.
Assessing Core Control, Tension and Pressure Management
Core recovery is not just about strength. It is about control, timing and pressure management.
If pressure is not managed well, symptoms may appear during movements such as sitting up, lifting, coughing, sneezing or exercising.
We may assess how your core responds when you breathe, move, brace, lift or change position. We look at whether the abdominal wall can create useful tension and whether it works with the pelvic floor and diaphragm.
Many people focus on the size of a diastasis recti gap, but gap size alone does not tell us how well the core is functioning. This is why our assessment looks at function, not just measurement.
Pelvic Floor and Pressure Management Assessment
The pelvic floor is a key part of postnatal recovery. It helps support the bladder, bowel and uterus, and it works with the abdominal wall, diaphragm, spine and pelvis to manage pressure and stability.
After pregnancy and childbirth, pelvic floor function may be affected by stretching, load, pressure, fatigue, birth trauma or changes in coordination.
A Mummy MOT helps assess how this system is functioning and whether symptoms may be linked to pelvic floor timing, control or pressure management.
How We Assess Pelvic Floor Function Externally
At Sanderstead Osteopaths, our pelvic floor assessment is external.
We assess function through observation, movement, breathing, pressure management and how the pelvis and abdominal wall behave during gentle activation and load.
This may include looking at breathing patterns, abdominal movement, pelvic movement, core engagement, pressure control, movement stability and symptoms during functional tasks.
The assessment is designed to be professional, respectful and appropriate for postnatal recovery.
Why Timing and Coordination Matter as Much as Strength
Pelvic floor recovery is often discussed in terms of strength, but strength alone is not enough.
The pelvic floor needs to activate at the right time, with the right level of effort, and relax when appropriate. It also needs to coordinate with breathing, abdominal wall tension and movement.
If timing is delayed, symptoms may occur even if the muscle can contract. For example, leaking when coughing, laughing or exercising may be linked to the pelvic floor not responding quickly enough to a sudden increase in pressure.
Symptoms that may suggest pelvic floor dysfunction include leaking when coughing, laughing or sneezing, leaking during exercise, heaviness or dragging, reduced pelvic support, difficulty engaging the pelvic floor, pressure during lifting or reduced confidence returning to activity.
If pelvic floor symptoms are your main concern, our pelvic floor recovery page explains this area in more detail.
I have suffered with various back problems, especially lower back and shoulder tension. David has helped with my symptoms quickly and effectively. He is extremely professional and knowledgeable. I can highly recommend this practice and I will continue to use them in the future.
Kim FyfeAugust 28, 2023
Movement Testing During a Mummy MOT
Movement testing is important because it shows how your body functions in real life.
A muscle may appear strong in one position but fail to coordinate properly during movement. A posture may look acceptable at rest but change under load. A symptom may only appear when the body is asked to lift, bend, brace or stabilise.
This is why we include movement assessment as part of the Mummy MOT.
Assessing Everyday Movements Like Bending, Standing and Lifting
We may assess simple everyday movements such as standing from sitting, bending forward, lifting mechanics, walking, balance, pelvic control, spinal movement, breathing during effort and core engagement during movement.
These movements are relevant because they reflect what your body has to do every day.
Looking after a baby involves repeated lifting, carrying, feeding, twisting, bending and holding. Even small movements can become physically demanding when repeated many times throughout the day.
By assessing these movements, we can identify where strain is building and whether your body is using efficient strategies.
How Movement Can Reveal Weakness or Compensation
Compensation happens when one area of the body works harder because another area is not contributing effectively.
The lower back may overwork if the core is not stabilising well. The neck may become tense if the upper back is stiff. The pelvis may feel unstable if the deep stabilisers are not coordinating. The abdominal wall may dome if pressure is not managed effectively. The shoulders may become overloaded from feeding and carrying positions.
Movement testing helps reveal these patterns.
Postnatal recovery should be measured by how well your body manages real life, not only by how it feels at rest. A Mummy MOT helps identify what your body can currently manage and what needs to be rebuilt gradually.
What Happens After the Assessment
After your assessment, we explain what we have found and what it means for your recovery.
The aim is to give you clarity. You should understand what is working well, what may need support, and what the next step should be.
We will not simply hand you a generic list of exercises. Your plan should be based on your body, your symptoms, your assessment findings and your goals.
Explaining What We Find
Once the assessment is complete, we talk through the findings in clear, practical language.
This may include explaining how your posture is affecting load, how your spine and pelvis are moving, whether your core is engaging effectively, whether abdominal separation is present, how your abdominal wall is managing pressure, whether pelvic floor coordination may be contributing to symptoms, and whether movement patterns are creating compensation.
Understanding the reason behind symptoms often helps patients feel more confident about recovery.
Instead of guessing what exercises to do or avoiding movement out of fear, you can begin to understand what needs to change.
Creating a Personalised Recovery Plan
Your recovery plan will depend on what we find during the assessment.
It may include core rehabilitation, pelvic floor coordination guidance, breathing and pressure-management work, postural advice, mobility exercises, strength and control work, lifting and carrying advice, return-to-exercise guidance, scar tissue support where appropriate, or follow-up osteopathic treatment.
Hands-on osteopathic treatment may also be recommended if we identify areas of restriction, tension, stiffness or altered movement that are contributing to your symptoms.
For long-term improvement, we often combine treatment with rehabilitation, movement advice and practical strategies. This helps your body not only feel better, but function better.
When to Book a Mummy MOT Assessment
A Mummy MOT is commonly suitable from around six weeks after birth, once you have had your early postnatal medical review and feel ready to be assessed.
However, it is not only useful in the early postnatal stage. Many patients book months or even years after pregnancy because symptoms have persisted, returned or become more noticeable as activity levels increase.
From Six Weeks After Birth Onwards
From around six weeks onwards, a Mummy MOT can help assess how your body is recovering and whether your core, pelvic floor, posture and movement patterns are functioning well.
At this stage, you may be starting to think about exercise, lifting more confidently, walking further or returning to more normal activity.
An assessment can help identify whether your body is ready for those demands and whether any early issues need support.
Months or Years After Pregnancy
Postnatal recovery does not always resolve simply because time has passed.
You may still benefit from a Mummy MOT months or years after pregnancy if you have ongoing lower back pain, persistent neck or shoulder tension, weak core control, abdominal doming, pelvic heaviness, leaking during movement or exercise, reduced confidence lifting or training, or a feeling that your body has never fully recovered.
It is not too late to assess these issues. Function can still be improved with the right guidance, treatment and rehabilitation.
When Symptoms Mean It Is Worth Getting Checked
It is worth booking a Mummy MOT if symptoms are not improving, if they affect your daily life, or if you feel unsure about what your body can safely manage.
Symptoms that may be worth assessing include lower back pain after pregnancy, pelvic pain or instability, leaking when coughing, laughing or exercising, a dragging or heavy sensation, abdominal separation or doming, weakness through the core, pain when lifting or carrying, neck and shoulder pain from feeding, difficulty returning to exercise, or feeling unstable or disconnected from your body.
A Mummy MOT is not a replacement for urgent medical care. If you experience severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever, signs of infection, sudden swelling, new numbness or weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, chest pain, shortness of breath, or symptoms that feel sudden or concerning, you should seek appropriate medical advice urgently.
For non-urgent postnatal recovery concerns, a structured assessment can help you understand what is happening and what support may be appropriate.
Very professional and friendly service from Paul.
Julia CallanOctober 28, 2023
Book a Mummy MOT Assessment in Sanderstead
If you are unsure how well your body has recovered after pregnancy, a Mummy MOT assessment can give you a clearer understanding of what is happening.
At Sanderstead Osteopaths, we assess posture, core function, abdominal wall recovery, pelvic floor coordination, pressure management and movement patterns. This allows us to identify where your body may need support and create a plan based on your individual recovery.
Whether you are six weeks postnatal, several months into recovery, or still experiencing symptoms years later, our osteopaths can help you understand your body and guide your next steps.
We regularly support patients from Sanderstead and nearby areas including South Croydon, Purley, Warlingham, Kenley, Selsdon, Coulsdon and all surrounding areas.
Postnatal Support from Our Osteopaths
Our osteopaths take a whole-body approach to postnatal recovery.
We look at how your spine, pelvis, core, pelvic floor, posture and movement patterns are working together. This helps us identify whether symptoms are linked to weakness, stiffness, pressure management, compensation or altered movement.
Where appropriate, we may use hands-on osteopathic treatment, rehabilitation advice, core and pelvic floor coordination work, postural guidance and practical movement strategies.
How to Arrange Your Appointment
To arrange your Mummy MOT assessment, you can contact our team at Sanderstead Osteopaths via telephone, by using our contact form or by booking online.
If you are unsure whether the assessment is suitable for you, our team can help guide you. You do not need to have severe symptoms to book. If your body feels different, weaker, less stable or not fully recovered after pregnancy, an assessment can help you understand what is happening and what to do next.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mummy MOT Assessments
Is a Mummy MOT assessment internal?
At Sanderstead Osteopaths, pelvic floor function is assessed externally. We look at breathing, pressure management, abdominal and pelvic movement, core engagement, movement control and how symptoms appear during functional tasks.
How long does a Mummy MOT assessment take?
The initial Mummy MOT assessment is a one-hour appointment. This allows time to discuss your history, assess posture and movement, check core and abdominal wall function, consider pelvic floor coordination and explain the next steps.
Do I need symptoms to book a Mummy MOT?
No. Some patients book because they have symptoms such as leaking, pain, heaviness, doming or weakness. Others book because they want clarity before returning to exercise or increasing activity. If you are unsure how well your body has recovered, an assessment can help.
Can I have a Mummy MOT after a C-section?
Yes. A Mummy MOT can be useful after a C-section. We may assess abdominal wall function, core control, movement confidence, scar-related restriction where appropriate, posture, pelvic stability and how your body is managing load.
Can I have a Mummy MOT months or years after giving birth?
Yes. Although many people book from around six weeks after birth, a Mummy MOT can still be relevant months or years later. If symptoms have continued, returned or become more noticeable with exercise, lifting or daily activity, assessment can still provide useful guidance.
Always really happy with the knowledge and professionalism I receive.
Daniel DjadaliAugust 28, 2023
