Women’s Pelvic Health
Bladder incontinence
Physiotherapy provides effective support for women experiencing bladder incontinence through the application of targeted interventions aimed at strengthening the pelvic floor muscles and enhancing bladder control. Following a comprehensive assessment, treatment may involve pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT), bladder retraining, or a combination of both, with the goal of alleviating symptoms and improving daily functioning. Additionally, bowel function is evaluated, as it can significantly contribute to bladder-related issues.
Vulval and sexual pain
Physiotherapy can play a pivotal role in the management of vulval and sexual pain conditions—such as vulvodynia, vaginismus, and dyspareunia—by addressing the underlying musculoskeletal and functional factors that contribute to pain and discomfort.
Endometriosis
Physiotherapy can be a valuable component in the multidisciplinary management of endometriosis, particularly in addressing chronic pain, myofascial tension, and functional impairments commonly associated with the condition. Although physiotherapy does not directly treat endometrial lesions, it can substantially enhance quality of life by alleviating the secondary musculoskeletal and functional consequences.
Bowel
Physiotherapy constitutes an effective therapeutic approach in the management of bowel disorders such as constipation and fecal incontinence. Interventions focus on enhancing pelvic floor muscle function, optimizing stool consistency, and promoting regular and efficient bowel habits. Management may include individualised exercise programs, patient education, and techniques aimed at improving posture and facilitating coordinated, functional defecation.
Pelvic surgery
Gynaecological surgery can be recommended for women of any age for acute or longstanding problems. Pre-hab (exercises before surgery) and Re-hab (exercises following surgery) are very effective adjuncts to surgery that will hasten your recovery and help alleviate your problems. Many surgeries will benefit from Physiotherapy, with the most common including hysterectomy, bladder sling or prolapse repair. Research shows that on verbal instruction 50% of women incorrectly activate their pelvic floor and around 25% of women perform a movement that could make symptoms worse. Therefore, it is important to see a Physiotherapist skilled in designing individually tailored rehabilitation programs for gynaecological surgery.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Physiotherapy plays a fundamental component in the management of pelvic organ prolapse by focusing on strengthening and improving the function of the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder, uterus, and bowel. Through targeted exercises, physiotherapists help improve muscle strength and coordination, which can reduce symptoms and prevent the prolapse from worsening.
In addition to muscle training, physiotherapy includes advice on lifestyle changes to minimize pressure on the pelvic floor, such as avoiding heavy lifting, managing weight, and preventing constipation. Core stability and posture improvements are also important, as they support pelvic alignment and reduce strain.
