Pelvic Health

Pelvic health is a term that includes many different systems in the body. Due to close proximity of different organs and anatomical structures, dysfunction can manifest in many ways with a variety of symptoms. The pelvis conveys information and movement between our lower body, the abdomen, and the spine. Therefore, the pelvis plays a vital role in overall health. A common misconception of pelvic floor therapy is that it is limited to Kegels for urinary leakage. Although Kegel exercises may play a role, this is only a small piece of pelvic rehab.

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Female Anatomy

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The pelvis is considered a bowl like structure that contains organs and tissues of many body systems:

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• Urinary-  bladder and urethra

• Reproductive- uterus and ovaries

• Bowel-  large and small intestines

• Sexual-  vagina, labia, clitoris

• Musculoskeletal-  pelvic floor muscles, soft tissue, and pelvic bones

• Nervous System-  motor, sensory and atomic (involuntary) nerves

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Pelvic Floor Muscles

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The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that contribute to pelvic stability, internal organ support, sphincteric control and sexual health.The muscles must relax, contract, and maintain a healthy level of tone in order to function properly.

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Just like any muscle in the body, these muscles can become tight, weak, uncoordinated or acutely injured from trauma.

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Pelvic muscles are core muscles, working in conjunction with the hip, abdominal and spinal musculature as well as the respiratory diaphragm. They can become strained during pregnancy, heavy lifting, toileting habits, and repetitive impact. They can tear during childbirth, and become restricted and uncoordinated with various gynecological / GI conditions. Often kegels are an inappropriate exercise prescription and can sometimes make symptoms worse.

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The pelvic floor muscles should be assessed, alongside each individual's unique anatomy, medical history, lifestyle and functional goals in order to provide the highest quality of care. Pelvic floor physical therapists examine the pelvic floor muscles internally and externally in order to provide an individual rehabilitation program to meet the goals of the patient.

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Functions of the pelvic floor:

1.  Low back and pelvis stability
2. Urinary and fecal continence
3. Sexual function
4. Organ support
5. Childbirth

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Possible pelvic floor issues include:

• overactive bladder

• urinary retention

• pelvic pain

• painful intercourse

• urinary leakage (incontinence)

• stool leakage (anal incontinence)

• constipation

• prolapse of organs

• instability of the pelvis

• sexual dysfunction

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Treatment will look different for each woman but can include home exercises, internal and external manual therapy, botanical remedies and education.