Pelvic floor issues are more common than many people realise, affecting women of all ages and life stages. From bladder leakage and pelvic organ prolapse to pain during intercourse, these conditions can significantly impact quality of life. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer in silence. Women’s health physiotherapists offer effective, evidence-based treatments to help restore pelvic floor function and support overall wellbeing.

Understanding the Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that sits at the base of the pelvis. These muscles support the bladder, uterus and bowel, and play an important role in urinary and bowel control, sexual function and core stability.

When the pelvic floor muscles become weakened, overactive, or damaged—often due to pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, ageing or chronic straining—women can experience a range of uncomfortable or distressing symptoms.

Common Pelvic Floor Problems

Pelvic floor dysfunction can present in different ways, including:

  • Urinary incontinence – leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercising (stress incontinence), or feeling a sudden urge to urinate (urge incontinence).

  • Pelvic organ prolapse – where the bladder, uterus or bowel bulges into the vaginal wall, often felt as a heavy or dragging sensation.

  • Faecal incontinence or bowel urgency.

  • Pelvic pain – including pain during intercourse, tampon use or pelvic exams.

  • Diastasis recti – abdominal separation that often occurs post-pregnancy, affecting core stability and pelvic floor support.

How Women’s Health Physios Can Help

Women’s pelvic physio is specially trained to assess, diagnose and manage pelvic floor issues using non-surgical, individualised approaches. They work closely with women to restore function, relieve symptoms and build confidence.

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Assessment

A thorough assessment typically includes:

  • Detailed discussion of symptoms, medical history and lifestyle.

  • Physical examination, which may involve internal assessment to check pelvic floor strength and coordination.

  • Use of tools like real-time ultrasound or biofeedback where appropriate.

Treatment Options

Depending on the condition, treatment may include:

  • Pelvic floor muscle training – Teaching correct muscle activation techniques and designing a tailored exercise program.

  • Bladder and bowel training – Helping to develop healthier toileting habits and manage urgency or leakage.

  • Manual therapy and relaxation techniques – For women with tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles.

  • Guidance on posture, breathing and body mechanics – Especially important during pregnancy and postnatally.

  • Lifestyle advice – Including diet, fluid intake, exercise and strategies to reduce pressure on the pelvic floor.

When to See a Women’s Health Physio

You should consider seeing a women’s health physio if you:

  • Leak urine or have difficulty controlling your bladder or bowel.

  • Feel pressure or bulging in the vaginal area.

  • Experience pain during intimacy or pelvic exams.

  • Are pregnant or have recently given birth and want to support recovery.

  • Are planning or recovering from gynaecological surgery.

  • Want to return to exercise safely after childbirth.

The sooner you seek help, the better the outcomes tend to be. Many pelvic floor issues can be resolved or significantly improved with early intervention. Visit website here to learn more or book a consultation with a women’s health physio.

A Discreet and Supportive Space

Women’s health physios understand the sensitive nature of pelvic health. Consultations are conducted in a respectful, supportive and confidential environment. Their goal is to empower you with knowledge and tools to take control of your body and health.

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If you’re dealing with pelvic floor concerns, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to put up with it. Reach out to a qualified women’s health physiotherapist for personalised care and long-term solutions.