Pelvic floor therapy is a unique type of physical therapy that addresses pelvic floor issues such as incontinence and pain. It starts with a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, general well-being and pelvic floor health (strength, endurance, tone, etc.).  Based on these findings, treatment will be individualized but may include biofeedback training, manual therapy, exercise and education.

If you experience any of the following problems, then you would probably benefit from pelvic floor therapy:

Urinary incontinence – Do you leak even a little bit with exercise, sneezing, laughing? Or does the sound of running water make you sprint to the bathroom? These are not normal occurrences and shouldn’t just be accepted as a part of aging or childbirth.

Painful sex – Some discomfort after childbirth is normal, but if you’ve never had children or if it’s been a long time and you’re still having pain, you need to be checked. Scar tissue or increased muscle tone or even vaginal dryness can all cause pain with sex, but these can all be treated.

Pelvic pressure – Does your vagina often feel heavy, even when you’re not on your period? You may be experiencing pelvic organ prolapse. This can result from childbirth or just naturally with aging. Increasing the strength of your pelvic floor muscles can reduce these symptoms and give you better support.

Urgency – Do you feel like you spend more time in the bathroom than hanging out with family or friends? You may be experiencing urinary urgency. This can be the result of weak pelvic floor muscles, bad habits or even dietary issues. The good news is we can get you out of the bathroom.

If you experience any of these issues or have other questions, speak to your gynecologist or call the pelvic floor therapists at Woman’s Center for Wellness at 924-8450. For more information, visit http://www.womans.org/our-services/therapy/pelvic-floor-health.