Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized treatment designed to assess and improve the function of pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the bladder, uterus, prostate, and bowel. When they become weak or tight, they can cause various issues including incontinence, pain, or sexual dysfunction.

Why Is Pelvic Floor Health Important?

A strong and flexible pelvic floor supports core stability, bladder control, and sexual function. Poor pelvic muscle health can lead to:

• Urinary or fecal incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Constipation

Both men and women can benefit from pelvic physiotherapy, especially after childbirth, surgery, or injury.

Common Conditions Treated with Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is effective for:

• Postpartum recovery
• Prostate surgery rehabilitation
• Pelvic pain syndromes
• Overactive bladder
• Endometriosis-related discomfort
• Interstitial cystitis

Early intervention can speed up recovery and prevent long-term problems.

What to Expect in a Pelvic Physiotherapy Session

Your physiotherapist will begin with a detailed assessment. This may include:

• Posture and movement analysis
• External and internal pelvic muscle evaluation
• Discussion of bladder and bowel habits

Based on findings, a tailored treatment plan will be created to suit your needs.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Exercises

Here are core exercises you may practice during your sessions or at home:

1. Kegel Exercises

How to do them:

• Contract the muscles used to stop urinating.
• Hold the contraction for 5 seconds, then relax.
• Repeat 10–15 times, three times per day.

Consistency is vital for lasting results.

2. Deep Breathing with Pelvic Activation

Steps:

• Lie on your back with knees bent.
• Inhale deeply into your belly.
• As you exhale, gently engage your pelvic floor.

This improves coordination between breathing and pelvic support.

3. Bridge Pose

Steps:

• Lie down with knees bent and feet flat.
• Lift your hips slowly while engaging your pelvic floor.
• Hold for 5 seconds, then lower.

This strengthens both the glutes and pelvic floor.

4. Squats with Core Engagement

How to do it:

• Stand with feet hip-width apart.
• Lower into a squat while activating the pelvic floor.
• Rise slowly while keeping control.

Builds overall strength and pelvic muscle endurance.

Tips for Best Results

• Perform exercises daily
• Avoid breath-holding
• Don’t over-tighten—relaxation is also important
• Listen to your body and progress gradually

Always follow your physiotherapist’s guidance for safety and effectiveness.

Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

• Improved bladder and bowel control
• Reduced pelvic pain
• Enhanced sexual function
• Better posture and core strength
• Faster postpartum or post-surgical recovery

These benefits can significantly boost your quality of life.

When to Seek Help from a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

See a professional if you notice:

• Leaking urine when coughing or exercising
• Pain during intercourse
• Frequent or urgent urination
• A feeling of heaviness in the pelvis

You don’t need to suffer in silence—pelvic health is treatable and manageable.

Final Thoughts on Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a powerful, non-invasive solution to a wide range of issues. With consistent exercises and expert care, you can rebuild strength, reduce symptoms, and reclaim your daily confidence. Don’t wait—early action brings the best results.