What Is Pelvic Floor Therapy? Here’s How It Can Help Women Live A Pain-Free Life
Pelvic floor pain is no joke!
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that form a supportive hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. These muscles play a vital role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and overall pelvic stability. However, many women experience pelvic floor dysfunction, which can lead to a wide range of unpleasant and embarrassing symptoms. Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that can help women address these issues and improve their overall quality of life.
1. What Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in several ways, including urinary and faecal incontinence, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, and pelvic organ prolapse. These conditions can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy and childbirth, ageing, hormonal changes, surgery, and certain medical conditions. Regardless of the cause, pelvic floor dysfunction can be incredibly debilitating and can significantly impact a woman’s physical, emotional, and sexual well-being.
Also Read: 8 Most Googled Questions About Sex And Sexual Health, Answered
2. What Is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a non-invasive, conservative treatment option that can help women overcome these challenges. During a pelvic floor therapy session, a trained therapist will perform an assessment to determine the root cause of the patient’s symptoms. This assessment may include a pelvic exam, biofeedback, and other specialized tests. Based on the findings, the therapist will develop a customized treatment plan that may include exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, manual therapy, relaxation techniques, and education on lifestyle modifications.
3. Conditions Treated With Pelvic Floor Therapy?
One of the most common conditions treated with pelvic floor therapy is urinary incontinence. This condition affects millions of women worldwide and can be caused by weak pelvic floor muscles or an overactive bladder. Pelvic floor therapy can help improve bladder control by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and teaching patients how to properly contract and relax these muscles during urination. Additionally, therapists may recommend lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, weight loss, and hydration management to help manage urinary incontinence.
Another common condition treated with pelvic floor therapy is pelvic pain. Pelvic pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including endometriosis, interstitial cystitis, and pelvic floor muscle tension. Pelvic floor therapy can help address pelvic pain by releasing muscle tension through manual therapy techniques, stretching exercises, and relaxation techniques. Additionally, therapists may work with patients to identify and address underlying psychological factors that may be contributing to their pain.
Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is another condition that can be addressed through pelvic floor therapy. Dyspareunia can be caused by a variety of factors, including vaginal dryness, pelvic floor muscle tension, and scar tissue from previous surgeries or injuries. Pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate painful intercourse by addressing the underlying causes of the pain. This may include vaginal dilators, manual therapy to release muscle tension, and education on proper lubrication techniques.
Also Read: Here Are 7 Tips To Keep Your Vagina Happy, Healthy, And Clean
Pelvic organ prolapse is one more condition that can benefit from pelvic floor therapy. Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum, drop or sag into the vagina. This can cause discomfort, pressure, and even incontinence. Pelvic floor therapy can help alleviate pelvic organ prolapse by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and providing education on proper body mechanics to prevent further prolapse.
Pelvic floor exercises, also known as Kegels, can be an effective way to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and alleviate symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. These exercises involve contracting and relaxing the muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. However, it’s important to note that not all pelvic floor exercises are created equal. Working with a trained pelvic floor therapist can help ensure that you are performing the exercises correctly and targeting the right muscles.
Additionally, it’s important to consult with your doctor before starting any new exercise program, especially if you are experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction. They can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop a treatment plan that is right for you.
First Published: February 24, 2023 5:45 PM
