As the owner of a pelvic wellness company, I frequently treat patients who suffer from pelvic pain and dysfunction for months – sometimes years – before they finally make an appointment for a consultation.
As women, it’s so easy to live in pain and be unaware that the pelvic floor may be the culprit. On the other hand, I have also had patients sign up for a consultation, only to learn that their pelvic floor isn’t the problem at all.
So, should you see a pelvic floor therapist? This article dives into common signs that indicate if pelvic floor therapy is (or is not) for you.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a hammock of muscles that stretch from the pubic bone to the tailbone. The pelvic floor supports the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The pelvic floor plays a critical role in the following:
Sphincter Control: Manages urination and bowel movements.
Core and Spine Stability: Provides crucial support to the core and spine.
Sexual Function: Contributes to comfortable penetration and orgasm.
Signs You Should See a Pelvic Floor Therapist:
If you experience any of the following, it's worth considering a pelvic floor therapy consultation:
Lower Back Pain & Pelvic Discomfort: Persistent aches and pains in your lower back or pelvis can indicate pelvic floor muscle imbalances or tension.
Lower Abdominal Pain During Sex: Painful intercourse is a common issue that stems from pelvic floor muscle tightness or dysfunction.
Leaking During Workouts (Incontinence): Even small leaks during physical activity, sneezing, or coughing is a sign of weakened pelvic floor muscles.
Constipation: Difficulty with bowel movements can be linked to pelvic floor muscles that are too tight or not coordinating properly.
Constant Need to Urinate: Frequent or urgent urination can be a sign of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction affecting bladder control.
Lower Back or Hip Pain: Pain in the lower back or hips can be an indication of pelvic floor dysfunction due to the back/hips’ connection to the pelvic floor muscles.
Significant life changes can also necessitate pelvic floor therapy, such as:
Pregnancy: If you’re expecting a baby, proactive pelvic floor therapy can help strengthen and prepare your muscles for the physical demands of pregnancy and childbirth.
Postpartum Recovery: If you recently gave birth, your body undergoes significant changes postpartum. Pelvic floor therapy can aid in healing, restoring strength, and addressing discomfort.
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy:
Pain Relief: Reducing or eliminating pelvic pain, back pain, and pain during intercourse.
Improved Bladder and Bowel Control: Addressing incontinence and constipation.
Enhanced Core Stability: Strengthening the core and improving posture.
Improved Sexual Function: Enhancing comfort and enjoyment during intimacy.
Postpartum Recovery: Aiding in healing and restoring strength after childbirth.
If The Above Applies to You, Here’s What to Expect During an Initial Evaluation with Boundless Pelvic Therapy:
You will have the opportunity to meet with Laura Rubin or Lauren Summerton, who are both Doctors of Physical Therapy.
Our session includes the opportunity to share your concerns, medical history, and goals. Laura or Lauren will assess your posture, body mechanics, mobility, strength of your core, and conduct an internal and external exam of your pelvic floor. Similar to traditional physical therapy, our pelvic floor therapists teach behavioral changes, exercises, stretches, and provide a home exercise program to help you reach your goals.
If you are interested in learning more about how pelvic floor therapy can benefit you, we invite you to book an appointment or schedule a discovery call today.
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