Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an evidence-based treatment for a variety of conditions resulting from dysfunction of the pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that sit inside the pelvis like a hammock. They are responsible for a wide range of important functions, including supporting our internal organs, sexual function, pumping blood through the body, breathing, and control of the bowel and bladder.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also support you during pregnancy by strengthening of the pelvic floor in preparation for labour, help prevent prolapse and/or urinary incontinence, and support posture, comfort, and healthy movement as your body changes.

A pelvic floor physiotherapist can also treat a variety of conditions, including:

  • Rectus diastasis

  • Pre- and post-natal pelvic floor changes

  • Bladder and/or bowel incontinence

  • Urinary retention, hesitation, frequency, urgency

  • Pudendal neuralgia (irritation of the pudendal nerve in the pelvis)

  • Pelvic girdle pain

  • Pelvic organ prolapse

  • Weakness and/or tension in the pelvic floor muscles

  • Pain or discomfort with sexual function

Pelvic floor physiotherapists have pursued specialized post-graduate training in the assessment and treatment of dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles, and are licensed to complete pelvic examinations. We understand that pelvic floor physiotherapy can cause some anxiety, especially if it is your first time, and our first priority is maintaining your comfort and dignity.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy may include an internal exam if you are comfortable. However, your pelvic floor physiotherapist will use a range of other techniques to assess the function of the pelvic floor including breath work, function of surrounding structures such as muscles of the abdominals, hips, and spine, and general posture and movement.