Understanding Pelvic Floor Health: What Every Woman Should Know about Pelvic PT

Yoga for Pelvic Floor

As a pelvic health physical therapist with over a decade of experience, I've found that many women have questions about their pelvic floor but aren't sure where to turn for answers. At Healing Space PT, I believe education is a crucial part of healing, so I'm dedicating this first blog post to shedding light on this often-overlooked aspect of women's health.

What Exactly Is Your Pelvic Floor?

Your pelvic floor consists of layers of muscles and tissues that stretch like a hammock from your pubic bone to your tailbone. These muscles support vital organs including your bladder, uterus, and rectum. They also play crucial roles in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and core stability.

Despite their importance, these muscles often don't receive attention until problems arise. Many women aren't even aware of their pelvic floor until they experience pregnancy, childbirth, or develop symptoms of dysfunction.

Common Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor issues are remarkably common, affecting up to 1 in 3 women at some point in their lives. Yet many suffer in silence, unaware that their symptoms are treatable. Here are signs that might indicate pelvic floor dysfunction:

• Urinary leakage (when coughing, sneezing, or exercising)

• Frequent or urgent need to urinate

• Pelvic pain or pressure

• Pain during intercourse

• Lower back pain without a clear cause

• Constipation or difficulty emptying the bowels

• Feeling of heaviness or "something falling out" in the vaginal area

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, know that you're not alone, and help is available.

Beyond Kegels: A Comprehensive Approach

When it comes to pelvic health, most women have heard of Kegel exercises. While these can be beneficial, they're often not the complete solution many women need. In some cases, particularly with pelvic pain, the pelvic floor muscles may actually be overactive or too tight rather than too weak.

At Healing Space PT, I take a whole-person approach to pelvic health that includes:

• Comprehensive assessment to identify the true source of symptoms

• Personalized treatment plans that may include manual therapy, exercise, and education

• Attention to posture, breathing patterns, and daily habits that affect pelvic function

• Integration of pelvic health with overall core and movement strategies

Why Seek Specialized Pelvic PT?

Many women don't realize that specialized physical therapy can address pelvic floor concerns. As a Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner (PRPC), I have advanced training to provide treatment for a wide range of pelvic health conditions.

Unlike general physical therapy, pelvic floor therapy often includes both external and internal assessment and treatment techniques. This specialized approach allows for precise identification of dysfunction and targeted treatment to restore optimal function.

Taking the First Step

If you're experiencing pelvic floor symptoms, the most important thing to know is that you don't have to accept these issues as "normal" or "just part of being a woman." Whether you're dealing with postpartum concerns, pain, incontinence, or other pelvic issues, specialized help is available.

The journey to better pelvic health begins with a thorough evaluation where we discuss your concerns, medical history, and goals. Together, we'll create a treatment plan designed specifically for your needs.

At Healing Space PT in Princeton, I'm committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a comfortable environment where you can ask questions and take an active role in your healing process.

Have questions about pelvic health or wondering if physical therapy might help with your symptoms? Feel free to reach out—I'm here to help you on your journey to better pelvic health and overall wellbeing. Click HERE to book an appointment.

______________________________

Dr. Mehreen Akhtar is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Certified Pelvic Rehabilitation Practitioner with over 10 years of experience specializing in women's health and pelvic floor therapy. She provides personalized, one-on-one care at Healing Space PT in Princeton, NJ.