The Active Mums: Pelvic Health and Physical Activity Project Evaluation
The Active Mums: Pelvic Health and Physical Activity Project (2023–2025), led by Active Gloucestershire in partnership with NHS Gloucestershire, aimed to improve pelvic health and physical activity engagement among women and birthing people. Recognising that one in three experience pelvic floor issues, the initiative sought to break barriers of stigma, lack of confidence, and inequality surrounding postnatal physical activity.
The project was co-designed with local women, health professionals, and community partners through workshops and consultation. It piloted community-based physical activity programmes in Cheltenham, Gloucester, and Stroud, integrating pelvic health education with gentle, inclusive exercise in trusted local venues such as children’s centres and leisure facilities.
Over 200 women participated across five community programmes. Participants reported significant improvements in mood, confidence, pelvic health, and social connection. Many expressed gratitude for the free, baby-friendly, and supportive environment, noting benefits such as reduced incontinence, improved strength, and better mental wellbeing.
However, challenges emerged around sustainability, workforce capacity, and funding, particularly for maintaining engagement once the funded sessions ended. The report emphasises the need for more consistent, low-cost, community-based activity pathways across Gloucestershire, underpinned by partnerships between the NHS, local councils, and community providers.
Key recommendations include:
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Expanding local capacity for inclusive physical activity delivery.
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Strengthening partnerships between health and community sectors.
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Embedding learning into county-wide physical activity for health pathways.
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Ensuring women’s voices continue to shape service design.
