Up to half of those who have given birth will have some weakness in their abdominal and pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, up to a third still have a tummy gap (diastasis recti) eight weeks after. This can then lead to instability and contribute to distressing issues like back or pelvic pain, as well as bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction.

You don’t have to just “put up with” these conditions as an inevitable part of being a parent—they are treatable and deserve attention.

A Mummy MOT® is for anyone who has birthed a baby regardless of the type of birth.

Yes, absolutely. It is a common misconception that the Mummy MOT® is only for those who have had a vaginal delivery. In fact, recovering from a C-section involves major abdominal surgery, making a specialist postnatal assessment incredibly beneficial for your long-term recovery.

• Scar Tissue Management: As an osteopath, Catherine assesses the mobility of your C-section scar. Even after the surface has healed, deeper layers of tissue (fascia and muscle) can become “adherent” or tight. This can lead to a “pulling” sensation, numbness, or even lower back and pelvic pain months or years later.

• Core & Abdominal Function: A C-section affects the layers of your abdominal wall. We check for Diastasis Recti (tummy gap) and help you safely re-activate your deep core muscles, which is vital before returning to the gym or lifting your growing baby.

• Pelvic Floor Health: Even without a vaginal birth, your pelvic floor has carried the weight of a baby for nine months. Pregnancy hormones and postural shifts affect every mum’s pelvic floor strength and stability.

• Postural Rebalancing: Surgery and recovery can change how you stand and move. We look at your “post-baby posture” to ensure you aren’t overcompensating in your hips or spine, which often leads to that “aching back” feeling.

It can be booked any time from 6 weeks after delivery.

Some people do but not always. This will be discussed in your consultation and based on your individual assessment.

Not at all! Your body is always postnatal once you’ve had a baby, and you can benefit from a Mummy MOT check-up years after delivery.

The Mummy MOT® is a gentle, clinical evaluation designed to help you heal, not to cause more discomfort.

• Internal assessment is performed very slowly and gently. Discomfort vs. Pain: You might feel a sensation of pressure or slight “weirdness,” but it should not be painful.

• C-section or episiotomy scars:  Scars can sometimes feel “tight,” “tingly,” or slightly tender when first touched.

• Already in pain: The assessment helps identify why you are in pain so Catherine can give you a plan to stop it.

For the movement part of the assessment you are able to wear something comfortable for example a sports bra and shorts.

For the internal part of the assessment you will be asked to removed clothing and underwear from your lower body.

We will always ask for you consent before any examination. You will always be given as much time as you need to process the information and consent can be withdrawn at any time. Your comfort is always our priority.

Yes, however this is your personal choice and can be discussed with our licensed Mummy MOT® practitioner, Catherine.

Sometimes, however we would always suggest contacting your provider to see what your policy covers. Invoices can be provided after your consultation.

No, you do not need a referral to book your Mummy MOT® consultation.

Whilst we love babies at The Olive Clinic, we feel the focus of the appointment should be on you. If you need to bring your baby, please bring a chaperone where possible, to care for your baby during the assessment. If you’re unable to bring a chaperone, please be aware that your assessment and/or treatment may be impacted.

Yes! Many often give a Mummy MOT® as a baby shower gift. Please call or email to discuss your options.

Not only is Catherine a certified Mummy MOT® practitioner, she is a very experienced osteopath and herbalist who has undertaken additional training in women’s health, pilates and hypopressive breathing. Giving you a fully integrated treatment plan, going beyond the basic exercises.