What is Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?
Did you know pelvic health physiotherapy exists? Maybe you’ve heard of it but aren’t sure what it involves. Or perhaps you’ve done it before but didn’t realize we offer it at The Movement Physio.
Well, we do now! I’m Jess, a physiotherapist at The Movement, and I’m certified in pelvic health physiotherapy. Let’s break it down.
Understanding Your Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of three layers of muscles that stretch from your tailbone to your pubic bone. These muscles have five key functions:
Stability – A crucial part of your core support system
Sphincteric Function – Controls bladder and bowel movements
Organ Support – Supports the bladder, uterus, and rectum
Sexual Function – Plays a role in arousal and orgasm
Circulation – Affects blood and lymphatic flow in the pelvis
When your pelvic floor isn’t functioning properly, it can impact exercise, relationships, and daily life.
Common Pelvic Health Issues
Pelvic health physiotherapy can help with a variety of conditions, including:
Incontinence
Leaking urine while skipping, running, lifting, or sneezing
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Sensation of heaviness or bulging in the vaginal area
Pregnancy-Related Concerns
Pelvic pain and exercise modifications
Postpartum Recovery
Returning to exercise, healing diastasis recti, and postpartum education
Pelvic Pain
Discomfort during exercise, intercourse, or daily activities
What to Expect at Your Pelvic Floor Appointment
Step 1: Getting to Know You
Like any physiotherapy session, we start with a conversation about your symptoms and goals. We may ask about:
Bladder and bowel habits
Fluid intake and diet
Activity levels and movement concerns
These details help us create a plan tailored to your needs.
Step 2: Movement & Functional Assessment
Next, we assess how your body moves. This might include:
Hip and back mobility
Core and lower limb strength
Breathing patterns
Functional movement (e.g., how you run, lift, or skip)
Step 3: Pelvic Floor Muscle Assessment
Depending on your comfort level, we may perform an external and/or internal exam to assess your pelvic floor muscles. While an internal exam provides the most information, it is entirely optional and will only be done with your consent.
What Happens During an Internal Exam?
You’ll have privacy to undress (bottoms only) and drape yourself with a sheet
The physio will use a gloved hand to assess muscle tone, strength, and coordination
You’ll learn how to activate and relax your pelvic floor properly
The exam can be stopped at any time if you feel uncomfortable
Treatment: Your Personalized Plan
Your treatment plan is designed specifically for you and may include:
Education – Understanding your body and symptoms
Exercises – A combination of private room and gym-based training
Return-to-Sport/Fitness Programs – Progressive plans for running, lifting, and movement
Why I Became a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
When I first graduated from physio school, I took an external pelvic health course for awareness but didn’t think I’d pursue it further. Over time, I realized that many of the female athletes and active women I worked with had pelvic floor concerns.
Then, I came across a shocking statistic:
This affects women of all ages—not just postpartum. The lack of awareness, combined with misinformation, made me want to do more.
Pelvic Health Myths That Need to Go:
❌ You can’t lift more than 20 lbs during pregnancy
❌ A prolapse means your organs are falling out
❌ Holding your breath (Valsalva) while lifting is dangerous postpartum
❌ Peeing during running or CrossFit is normal (it’s common but can be addressed!)
❌ Certain exercises are “bad” for diastasis recti or will cause it during pregnancy
It’s Time to Take Control of Your Pelvic Health
I want women to understand their bodies, stop fearing movement, and get the right guidance. There is so much misinformation out there, and I’m here to help change that.
If this resonates with you, I’d love to help. Click the button below to book an appointment with me!
