What Is Pelvic Health Physiotherapy?
If you've never heard of pelvic health physiotherapy before, you're not alone - it's one of the best-kept secrets in women's and men's health. But once people understand what it involves, they often wish they'd known about it years earlier.
The short version
Pelvic health physiotherapy is a branch of physiotherapy focused on the muscles, joints, and connective tissue of the pelvis; including the pelvic floor. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and (for women) uterus, and play a role in everything from continence to core stability to sexual function.
A pelvic health physiotherapist has additional postgraduate training beyond general physiotherapy, specifically in assessing and treating this area of the body.
Who is pelvic health physiotherapy for?
People often assume pelvic health physio is only for postpartum mums, but the reality is much broader. At our West Auckland physiotherapy clinics we see:
- People experiencing bladder leakage (with coughing, sneezing, exercise, or urgency)
- Those with pelvic organ prolapse
- Pregnant and postpartum people preparing for or recovering from birth
- People with pelvic pain, including pain with intercourse
- Cancer rehabilitation clients (post-prostate, gynaecological, or bowel cancer treatment)
- Men with pelvic floor dysfunction
- Anyone with ongoing constipation or bowel-related symptom
What happens in an appointment?
A first appointment usually involves a conversation about your symptoms, history, and goals, followed by an assessment tailored to what you're experiencing. This might include an external assessment, and where appropriate and with your consent an internal assessment, which is currently the most accurate way to assess pelvic floor muscle function directly.
Nothing happens without a clear explanation first, and you're always in control of what you're comfortable with.
Why pelvic health matters
Pelvic floor symptoms are common, but they aren't something you have to just live with. Left unaddressed, they can affect exercise, work, sleep, relationships, and confidence. The good news is that pelvic health physiotherapy is evidence-based and, for many conditions, highly effective often without needing surgery or medication.
If something doesn't feel right, it's worth getting it checked out. Pelvic health issues are common, but that doesn't mean they're normal and there's a lot we can do to help.
If you'd like to talk to someone about your pelvic health, get in touch with our team we're here to help.
