The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the base of the pelvis, connecting the pubic bone in the front to the tailbone in the back. These muscles support the pelvic organs and as such, play a role in bladder, bowel, and sexual function. The pelvic floor also works together with the core, back, and hip muscles. Like other muscles in your body, your pelvic floor muscles need to have proper strength, range of motion, and coordination in order to function properly. When these muscles are weak, tense, or uncoordinated, sometimes problems with urination, defecation, sexual function, or pain can result. Physical therapists specializing in pelvic health use targeted exercise, lifestyle change, and manual therapy to help address your concerns so that you can reach your goals.
Urinary Issues
- Leaking urine
Urinary frequency (going too often, or not often enough)
Urinary urgency (constant “need to go”, or difficulty sensing when you need to go)
Difficulty emptying bladder completely (or needing to push/strain)
Pain with urgency or with urination (with negative tests for infection) -
Bowel Issues
Constipation
Sensation of incomplete emptying
Pain with bowel movement
Rectal pain
Leaking of feces
Pelvic Pain
- Vaginal or vulvar pain
Tailbone pain
Lower abdominal/pelvic pain (cramping, aching)
Pain with sitting
Pelvic heaviness/throbbing
Deep hip or glute pain
Low back/hip pain
Sexual Health Issues
- Pain during or after intercourse
Difficulty orgasming
Painful orgasm
Decreased sensation during intercourse
Painful pelvic exams and/or tampon insertion
Prenatal, Pregnancy, Postpartum
- Diastasis Recti (abdominal separation)
Pubic bone pain
Feelings of instability
Safe strengthening and exercise during pregnancy
Preparation for labor and delivery
Any previously mentioned bladder, bowel, sexual, or pain issues in relation to pregnancy or postpartum
