What is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy? Could It Help You?
Many people have never heard of pelvic floor physiotherapy. But this special type of treatment helps thousands of Canadians every year feel better and live more comfortably.
What Does a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist Do?
A pelvic floor physiotherapist is a specially trained health professional. They help people with problems in the pelvic area. This includes your bladder, bowel, and the muscles that support these organs.
These therapists use gentle exercises, education, and hands-on treatment to help you. They teach you how your body works and give you tools to feel better.
Who Should Think About Seeing a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist?
You might benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy if you have any of these problems:
Bladder Issues
• Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise
• Sudden, strong urges to use the bathroom
• Getting up many times at night to urinate
• Trouble emptying your bladder completely
Bowel Problems
• Leaking stool or gas
• Constipation that won’t go away
• Trouble controlling your bowels
• Straining during bowel movements
Pain
• Pain in your pelvis that won’t go away
• Painful periods
• Pain during or after sex
• Tailbone pain
• Bladder pain
Pelvic Organ Prolapse
• Feeling like something is “falling out” or bulging in your vagina or rectum
• Pressure or heaviness in your pelvic area
Women’s Health Issues
• Problems during or after pregnancy
• Difficulty recovering after having a baby
• Menopause symptoms like vaginal dryness or pain
• Gap in your belly muscles after pregnancy (diastasis)
Sexual Health Concerns
• Pain during sex for women or men
• Difficulty with penetration
• Lack of sensation or sexual function
Men’s Health
• Problems after prostate surgery
• Pelvic pain
• Bladder control issues
Other Conditions
• Pelvic pain related to endometriosis
• Recovery before or after pelvic surgery
• Support for gender-affirming surgeries
• Children with bladder or bowel problems
Why Don’t More People Know About This Treatment?
Many people feel embarrassed to talk about these problems. They might think these issues are just a normal part of getting older or having babies. But that’s not true! These problems are common, but they are
not normal. And there is help available.
How Does Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Work?
Your first visit usually takes about an hour. The physiotherapist will:
• Ask about your symptoms and health history
• Explain how your pelvic floor works
• Do a physical exam (this may include an internal exam if you agree)
• Create a treatment plan just for you
Treatment might include:
• Learning special exercises
• Breathing techniques
• Tips for better bladder and bowel habits
• Manual therapy (gentle hands-on treatment)
• Education about your condition
What About the Cost?
In Ontario, pelvic floor physiotherapy is not covered by OHIP (the public health insurance plan). You will need to pay for treatment yourself or through private insurance.
Many extended health plans cover physiotherapy. Check with your insurance company to see if you have coverage.
If you don’t have insurance, you can still pay out-of-pocket. Many people find that the improvement in their quality of life is worth the cost.
How to Find a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist in Ontario
It’s important to see a physiotherapist who has special training in pelvic health. Not all physiotherapists have this training.
Pelvic Health Solutions has a helpful website where you can:
• Learn more about different pelvic health conditions
• Find a trained pelvic floor physiotherapist near you in Canada
Visit their website at: www.pelvichealthsolutions.ca
Click on “Find a Health Care Professional” to search for therapists in your area.
Don’t Suffer in Silence
If you have any of the problems listed above, talk to your doctor. Ask if pelvic floor physiotherapy might help you.
Remember:
• These problems are common but not normal
• Treatment is available and effective
• You don’t have to live with these symptoms
• Help is out there!
Many people feel much better after working with a pelvic floor physiotherapist. They can do activities they enjoy without worry. They feel more comfortable and confident.
You deserve to feel your best. If you think pelvic floor physiotherapy might help you, take the first step and talk to your doctor today.
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For more information, visit www.pelvichealthsolutions.ca or speak with your family doctor.