Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy aimed at addressing issues related to the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, maintaining urinary and bowel continence, and facilitating sexual function.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help with a variety of conditions, including:
- Urinary incontinence: Whether you're experiencing stress incontinence (leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or laugh), urge incontinence (sudden, intense urge to urinate), or mixed incontinence, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help improve bladder control.
- Pelvic organ prolapse: This occurs when the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, or rectum) bulge into the vagina due to weak pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic floor exercises and other techniques taught by a physiotherapist can help manage and sometimes even reverse pelvic organ prolapse.
- Pelvic pain: Chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), and conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease can be alleviated through pelvic floor physiotherapy techniques.
- Pre- and post-natal care: Pelvic floor physiotherapy is beneficial during pregnancy to prepare for childbirth and afterward to aid in recovery. It can help prevent and treat issues such as diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles), pelvic girdle pain, and urinary incontinence.
By focusing on strengthening and coordinating the muscles of the pelvic floor, pelvic floor physiotherapy can improve bladder and bowel function, alleviate pain, and enhance overall quality of life. If you're experiencing any pelvic floor issues, consider booking an appointment with a pelvic floor physiotherapist to start your journey toward better pelvic health.
