Common Pelvic Health Issues Women Face and How to Address Them
Pelvic health plays a crucial role in a woman's overall well-being, yet many common issues go undiagnosed or untreated. Whether due to pregnancy, aging, hormonal changes, or lifestyle factors, pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly impact daily life. As a pelvic floor physiotherapist, I work with women to identify and address these concerns, helping them regain confidence and comfort. Here are some of the most common pelvic health issues women face and how to manage them effectively.
1. Urinary Incontinence
Urinary incontinence, or involuntary leakage of urine, is a common concern that affects women of all ages. It can occur due to weakened pelvic floor muscles, hormonal changes, or childbirth-related trauma. Types of incontinence include:
Stress incontinence – Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing, or exercising.
Urge incontinence – A sudden, intense need to urinate, often leading to leakage.
Mixed incontinence – A combination of both stress and urge incontinence.
How Physiotherapy Can Help:
Strengthening pelvic floor muscles through targeted exercises.
Learning bladder control techniques and lifestyle modifications.
Using biofeedback or electrical stimulation for muscle re-education.
2. Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken, allowing the bladder, uterus, or rectum to shift downward into the vaginal canal. Women often describe a feeling of heaviness, pressure, or a bulge in the pelvic area.
How Physiotherapy Can Help:
Performing pelvic floor exercises to improve support.
Learning proper posture and breathing techniques to reduce strain.
Making lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding heavy lifting or straining during bowel movements.
3. Painful Intercourse (Dyspareunia)
Pain or discomfort during intercourse is often caused by tight or overactive pelvic floor muscles, hormonal changes, or past trauma. This can lead to frustration, stress, and emotional distress in relationships.
How Physiotherapy Can Help:
Learning relaxation techniques to ease pelvic floor tension.
Using manual therapy to improve muscle flexibility.
Addressing any underlying causes, such as scar tissue or hormonal imbalances.
4. Chronic Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain that lasts longer than six months can be linked to muscle tightness, nerve irritation, endometriosis, or interstitial cystitis. Many women suffer in silence, unaware that physiotherapy can provide relief.
How Physiotherapy Can Help:
Using hands-on techniques to release muscle tension.
Teaching pain management strategies and movement modifications.
Identifying triggers and developing a personalized treatment plan.
5. Postpartum Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Pregnancy and childbirth put immense strain on the pelvic floor, leading to issues such as incontinence, prolapse, or persistent pain. Many women assume these symptoms are a normal part of motherhood, but effective treatment is available.
How Physiotherapy Can Help:
Assessing and restoring pelvic floor function postpartum.
Providing guidance on safe return to exercise and daily activities.
Addressing any postpartum pain or discomfort.
Taking the Next Step
Pelvic health issues are common, but they don’t have to be permanent. Seeking physiotherapy can help you regain strength, reduce discomfort, and improve your overall quality of life. Booking an appointment with Higher State Health and Wellness Club in St. John’s, Newfoundland is a proactive step toward better pelvic health and well-being.
Written by: Hayley O’Hara, PT
