Whether you’re pregnant, a mother (no matter the age of your children), or have simply noticed changes in your health and wellbeing, then Women’s Health Physiotherapy may be what you’re looking for!
What is Women’s Health Physiotherapy?
Women’s Health Physiotherapy plays a vital role in a woman’s life during and after pregnancy, after abdominal or pelvic surgery and during hormonal changes such as perimenopause and beyond. There are many issues and symptoms that women deal with during these times such as urinary leakage, pelvic pain and feelings of heaviness to name but a few, which are often written off as ‘normal’ or ‘to be expected’.
A Women’s Health Physiotherapist is specialised to assess the pelvic floor and the surrounding structures of the pelvis, hips and spine, as well as understanding the variations and demands that being a woman entails.
This allows you to know what may be causing your symptoms, and more importantly treat the cause to allow you to get back to doing the activities which make you feel like you.
Who could benefit from Women’s Health Physiotherapy?
Did you know that 1 in 3 women will experience urinary incontinence, and up to 1 in 2 women will develop pelvic organ prolapse (POP) over their lifetime? These can feel quite shocking statistics, but it’s important to note that although these symptoms may be common, they are not normal, and that help is available.
It may be beneficial to see a Women’s Health Physiotherapist if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Urinary leakage – any amount at any time
- Urinary urgency – if you’re needing to rush to get to the toilet, may not always make it in time, or have noticed a change in your bladder habits
- Feelings of bulging, heaviness or dragging from your vagina
- Pelvic pain
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Abdominal muscle separation – very common after childbirth
We also recommend that you see a Women’s Health Physiotherapist after the birth of your baby, whether you have had a vaginal delivery or a C-section.
No matter how long ago you gave birth, they can assist in correct pelvic floor function and scar tissue healing, which when combined with rehabilitative exercises can help you safely return to exercise.
If you have any questions about whether Women’s Health Physiotherapy is right for you, then please reach out using the Contact Us links below.
Written by Women’s Health Physiotherapist, Melanie Wilks.
