MaterClinic provides maternal health services in Charneca de Caparica from pregnancy preparation through postpartum, alongside care for other stages of adult health and wellbeing.
Each service begins with listening to the person’s history, needs and goals. Information is explained clearly, care is adapted to the individual clinical context, and decisions are made with the family.
Preparing for birth and the postpartum period
Childbirth and Postpartum Preparation Course
This course was designed for the pregnant woman and the person accompanying her.
It brings together objective, evidence-informed information and practical strategies for birth, breastfeeding and the first days with the baby. The aim is to help families understand what may happen, recognise the choices available to them and prepare for different possible scenarios.
The course also creates space for questions, discussion and decisions that reflect each family’s circumstances and preferences.
Antenatal Breastfeeding Consultation
An individual consultation before birth offers an opportunity to understand how breastfeeding begins, what usually happens during the first days and which signs help assess whether feeding is progressing effectively.
Previous breastfeeding experiences, breast surgery, health conditions, family concerns and personal goals can also be discussed. The information is adapted to the circumstances of each person, so that expectations and practical strategies can be considered before the baby is born.
Clinical Pilates During Pregnancy
Following an initial assessment, Clinical Pilates may support movement, strength, coordination and comfort during pregnancy.
Exercises are selected and adapted according to the stage of pregnancy, the person’s previous experience, symptoms and clinical needs. Progression is individual and reviewed throughout the programme.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy During Pregnancy
Pelvic health physiotherapy during pregnancy begins with an assessment of the person’s history, symptoms, pelvic floor function and individual goals.
Depending on the findings, care may include education, movement, exercise, breathing strategies and other physiotherapy approaches. It may be considered when there is pelvic pain, urinary or bowel symptoms, a sensation of pressure, discomfort during sexual activity or questions about preparing the pelvic floor for birth and postpartum recovery.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy
For some pregnant women, manual lymphatic drainage may be considered to support comfort associated with swelling and a sensation of heaviness.
Its suitability is assessed individually, taking the person’s health and stage of pregnancy into account. Sudden, marked or unusual swelling requires appropriate clinical assessment before any treatment is considered.
Postpartum support and recovery
The postpartum period brings physical, emotional and practical changes. Support may be needed during the first days, weeks or months, depending on the family’s experience and circumstances.
Postpartum Breastfeeding Consultation
The Postpartum Breastfeeding Consultation supports mothers during the first days, weeks or months after birth, with information and care adapted to their individual needs.
The consultation may include listening to the family’s concerns, observing a feed, assessing positioning, attachment and milk transfer, and discussing pain, nipple damage, milk production or the baby’s feeding behaviour.
Together, we develop a realistic plan that considers the mother’s goals, the baby’s needs and the family’s daily life.
Postpartum Home Support
Home support offers families the opportunity to receive care in their own environment during the postpartum period.
The visit may include questions about maternal recovery, breastfeeding or other feeding options, newborn care and the family’s adaptation to the first days after birth. When further assessment or referral is appropriate, this is explained clearly.
Postpartum Clinical Pilates
Following an assessment and according to the stage of recovery, Postpartum Clinical Pilates may support a gradual return to movement, strength and coordination.
Exercises are adapted to symptoms, previous activity, birth experience and individual goals. Recovery follows a different rhythm for each person, so progression is reviewed rather than assumed.
Postpartum Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Postpartum pelvic health physiotherapy may be considered when there are urinary or bowel symptoms, pelvic pain, a sensation of pressure, discomfort during sexual activity, concerns about abdominal or pelvic floor function, or questions about returning to exercise.
Assessment may also include the recovery of perineal or caesarean scars when clinically appropriate. The care plan is based on the findings and the person’s priorities.
Baby Massage Course for Parents
This course gives parents practical opportunities to learn massage routines while observing and respecting the baby’s cues.
The sessions encourage attentive touch, interaction and confidence in recognising when the baby is available for contact, needs a pause or prefers another form of comfort. The techniques are taught to the parents so that they can use them naturally within family life.
Health and wellbeing beyond maternity
MaterClinic also provides services for adults at different stages of life, including Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy, Permanent Hair Removal, Facial Treatments and Body Treatments.
Clinical Pilates and pelvic health physiotherapy are also available outside pregnancy and postpartum. Assessment helps determine which approach is appropriate for the person’s symptoms, goals and clinical context.
Frequently asked questions
Are MaterClinic services only for pregnancy and postpartum?
No. MaterClinic has a particular focus on maternal and family health, while also providing physiotherapy, Clinical Pilates and wellbeing services for adults at other stages of life.
Is an assessment required before starting Clinical Pilates or pelvic health physiotherapy?
Yes. An initial assessment allows the physiotherapist to understand the person’s health history, symptoms, current abilities and goals before recommending an individual or group programme.
Can the person accompanying the pregnant woman attend the childbirth preparation course?
Yes. The course was designed for the pregnant woman and the person who will accompany her. Their participation supports shared preparation and helps both understand the decisions and practical challenges that may arise.
How can I understand which service is appropriate for me?
You can contact MaterClinic and briefly explain what you are looking for. The team will help direct you towards the most appropriate service or professional assessment.
You can also request an appointment. The request will be reviewed by the team, who will contact you to confirm availability and the next steps.
