Leakage
Bowel Dysfunction
Sexual Pain
Pregnancy Support
General Pelvic Health
Post Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery
What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an important treatment approach for patients who experience issues related to the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles can be affected by various factors, such as childbirth, surgery, aging, injury, or chronic conditions. Physiotherapy helps to restore and improve the function of these muscles, leading to better overall pelvic health. Here’s why pelvic floor physiotherapy is so important:
1. Strengthening Weak Pelvic Floor Muscles
Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to problems like urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and reduced sexual health. Pelvic floor physiotherapy includes exercises (like Kegels) to strengthen these muscles, improving bladder and bowel control and supporting pelvic organs.
2. Relieving Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain can arise from muscle tightness or tension in the pelvic floor. Conditions like vaginismus, pelvic floor dysfunction, or chronic pelvic pain syndrome can be treated by a physiotherapist who helps to relax and lengthen tight muscles, reducing discomfort and pain.
3. Managing Incontinence
Incontinence (both urinary and fecal) is a common issue that can impact a person’s quality of life. Pelvic floor physiotherapy works to improve muscle tone and control, helping patients regain the ability to manage their bladder and bowel functions more effectively.
4. Improving Sexual Health
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can address sexual dysfunction by improving muscle tone, flexibility, and blood flow to the pelvic area. This is particularly helpful for those experiencing pain during intercourse, reduced sensation, or sexual dysfunction due to pregnancy, menopause, or other conditions.
5. Support During and After Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth put significant stress on the pelvic floor. Physiotherapy during pregnancy can help prepare the muscles for labor and delivery, while postnatal physiotherapy helps recover muscle strength and function after childbirth, preventing issues like incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse.
What To Expect At Your First Appointment
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized type of physiotherapy focused on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. It can help with concerns like bladder leakage, pelvic pain, constipation, prolapse, and postpartum recovery. If you're preparing for your first pelvic floor physiotherapy assessment, here's what you can expect:
1. A Private, Respectful Environment
Your comfort and privacy are a top priority. Assessments are done in a private treatment room, and you’ll have the opportunity to ask questions at any time. You are always welcome to bring a support person with you if that makes you feel more at ease.
2. A Detailed Conversation
Your physiotherapist will start by talking with you about your:
- Symptoms and concerns (e.g., pain, leakage, heaviness, or weakness)
- Medical history, including pregnancies, surgeries, or injuries
- Bladder, bowel, and sexual health (only as relevant and with your consent)
- Goals for treatment
This helps the physiotherapist understand your unique situation and tailor the assessment accordingly.
3. Physical Assessment
With your consent, a physical exam may be done to better understand how your pelvic floor is functioning. This may include:
- Posture and movement assessment: Looking at your spine, hips, and core.
- External exam: Checking abdominal muscles, breathing patterns, and areas of tension or weakness.
- Internal exam (optional): A gentle internal vaginal or rectal exam may be offered to assess pelvic floor strength, coordination, and any signs of muscle tightness, prolapse, or pain.
Important: You are in control at all times. The internal exam is completely optional and will only be done with your full, informed consent. You can decline or stop the exam at any point, and alternative assessment options can be used.
4. Your Personalized Treatment Plan
At the end of the assessment, your physiotherapist will:
- Explain their findings in clear, simple language
- Answer any questions you have
- Create a personalized treatment plan, which may include: pelvic floor exercises, breathing and relaxation techniques, lifestyle and bladder/bowel health advice, education on pain management or symptom trigger
5. What to Wear and Bring
- Wear comfortable clothing you can move in (e.g., leggings or shorts)
- Bring a list of any questions or concerns
- You don’t need to bring any special equipment
Final Note: You're Not Alone
Many people feel nervous about their first appointment—this is completely normal. Your physiotherapist is there to support you in a respectful, non-judgmental way. The goal is to help you feel confident, informed, and in control of your pelvic health.