Local Spotlight: Katey Molenaar - Women’s Health Physiotherapist, Central Coast

I’ll admit it—I had no idea women’s health physiotherapy was even a thing. I’d seen a physio for my back for years, but had no idea they could actually go….inside….

But after my first pregnancy and birth, when my body felt like it had been through a marathon (because, let’s be real, it had), I quickly learned that seeing a women’s health physio is a total game-changer. Whether you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, or years down the track, Katey’s expertise can help prevent and heal the issues that many women think they just have to ‘live with’ - spoiler: you don’t!

Why See a Women’s Health Physio in Pregnancy?

If we DO think to see a women’s health physiotherapist, it’s usually around 6 weeks postpartum. But, it’s actually super beneficial to see one in pregnancy so that you can assess how the pelvic floor is functioning before birth. Pregnancy puts a huge strain on your body, and Katey works with mums-to-be to keep them strong, mobile, and pain-free. A women’s health physio can help with pelvic floor function (and no, it’s not just about Kegels!), back and hip pain, and preparing your body for birth. Plus, learning how to engage your core correctly before birth makes postpartum recovery so much easier.

Postpartum Recovery: More Than Just ‘Bouncing Back’

After birth, everything can feel a bit… out of place. Weak pelvic floor? Ab separation? Ongoing pain? Peeing when you sneeze? (Yep, let’s talk about that, darls) Katey helps women heal properly so they can move, exercise, and live their daily lives without discomfort. Investing in postpartum recovery with a physio isn’t a luxury, it’s absolutley essential and should 100% be up there on your to-do list alongside visiting your GP at 6 weeks postpartum.

Meet Katey Molenaar

Katey is a passionate and highly experienced women’s health physiotherapist dedicated to supporting women at every stage of their motherhood journey. She’s based at Gaiacology, where she helps women move better, feel better, and regain confidence in their bodies.

5 Quick Fire Questions With Katey:

TMD: What lead you to becoming a Women’s Health Physio?

Katey: We had a brief lecture at uni about what pelvic floor physio is and I knew that’s what I wanted to do! I’ve had my own pelvic floor struggles so I was super interested in specialising in that area.

TMD: What’s your favourite part of the job?

Katey: My favourite part is witnessing when patients get that “ah ha!” moment after I’ve assessed and explained why they have their symptoms. Then they get a spumped and motivated as I do about treatment and management haha (I also love getting emails/messages from patients telling me their progress - I love that shit!)

TMD: What’s the one item in your household you can’t live without?

Katey: Of course a pelvic floor physio would say this, but I can’t live without my toilet stool #GreatPoopsForLife

TMD: What’s the first thing you do when you wake up?

Katey: I’m boring but I get excited for my breakfast every morning - fresh tomato, avo, and melted cheese on Vegemite toast…perfection!

TMD: What’s the thing you’re most grateful for?

Katey: I’m so grateful for my support system (my husband, parents, siblings, and best friends that are basically my family). I would not be where I am today without them.

Connect With Katey

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