When a woman experiences pelvic floor dysfunction, it can impact multiple aspects of her life—including relationships, caring for her family, performing job duties, and the ability to exercise.

Many women suffer in silence and do not seek assistance, often under the misconception that symptoms such as pelvic pain and incontinence are “common” and beyond help. These symptoms, while common, are not normal.

What does my pelvic floor do?

One of the main functions of the pelvic floor (muscles which span the bottom of the pelvis) is to assist with urinary and fecal continence. The pelvic floor provides support for our internal organs and also plays a role in sexual function. Bladder dysfunction, pelvic pain, and other issues can arise when the muscles of the pelvic floor do not perform in an optimal fashion.

What are symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction?

The physical symptoms you may experience are often a result of pelvic floor muscles that are in spasm, weak, or uncoordinated, and can include:

• Urinary frequency
• Stress urinary incontinence (loss of urine with sneezing/laughing/coughing/physical activity)
• Urge incontinence (strong urge to urinate with the inability to make it to the bathroom in time)
• Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome
• Pain with intercourse
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Pelvic pain
• Low back or SI joint pain
• Post partum pain

How physical therapy can help

After the initial evaluation is completed, your therapist will develop an individualized treatment plan. Treatments are modified based on each woman’s unique needs and goals. This plan of care may include any or all of the following:

• Pelvic floor muscle activation and/or relaxation
• External and internal manual therapy
• Biofeedback, electrical stimulation
• Behavioral and diet modification
• Bladder re-training schedule
• Myofascial release
• Stretching and strengthening exercises/postural re-education
• Home exercise program