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Written question asked by Julie Minns (Labour) on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 12 October 2026. It was answered by Alison McGovern (Labour) on Monday, 12 October 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Postnatal Care: Pilot Schemes

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what assessment her Department has made of the potential merits of working with local NHS partners to explore the potential for a pilot involving appropriately qualified community-based professionals to support postnatal physical activity and pelvic-health education, with outcomes evaluated to inform future policy.

Answer

Perinatal Pelvic Health Services (PPHS) support the prevention, identification, and treatment of pelvic health problems during pregnancy and for at least one year after birth. As of September 2026, PPHS are available in 34 of 36 integrated care board areas, with NHS England working with the remaining areas to achieve full national coverage. NHS England’s service specification sets standards for care, including providing women with information on pelvic health, potential problems, and how to access support during pregnancy and after birth. It also requires specialist-led training for maternity, primary care, and other relevant professionals.

NHS England’s postnatal toolkit promotes early identification and referral for women who need additional support, including access to specialist pelvic health services. The UK Chief Medical Officers’ physical activity guidelines recommend that postnatal women undertake regular physical activity and begin pelvic floor exercises when able, while the routine six to eight week postnatal general practice check provides an opportunity to discuss recovery, pelvic health, and mental health, with referral to specialist services where appropriate. Through the Women’s Health Strategy for England, the Government is also supporting integrated models of care that bring together maternity, gynaecology, primary care, pelvic health, health visiting, and perinatal mental health services to improve long-term outcomes for women.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
30315
Session
2026-27
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Pilot schemes Physiotherapy Postnatal care
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk