Have you ever considered that some of your most common aches and pains might be coming from muscles you never knew you had? Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. They play a crucial role in your overall health. When these muscles aren’t working properly, it can lead to discomfort, incontinence, and other frustrating symptoms. That’s where pelvic floor therapy comes in. This specialized form of physical therapy helps restore strength, coordination, and function to this essential area of the body.
What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a new and growing field of physical therapy designed to help individuals who experience pelvic muscle dysfunction. This therapy focuses on improving the function of the pelvic floor muscles through exercises, manual techniques, and biofeedback. Before starting pelvic floor therapy, you must first consult with a physician, such as a gynecologist, urologist, urogynecologist, or primary care doctor, who will assess your symptoms and provide a prescription for treatment.
“Many people assume that bladder leaks or pelvic discomfort are just things they have to live with,” says Tanvi Maharaja, PT, DPT, OCS, a pelvic floor physical therapist at St. Joseph’s Health. “But these symptoms can be treated effectively, and pelvic floor therapy offers a way to regain comfort and confidence.”
How to Find a Good Pelvic Floor Therapist
Once you have a prescription for pelvic floor therapy, it’s time to find the right therapist. Here are a few things to look for:
- A licensed physical therapist with specialized training in pelvic health.
- A provider who makes you feel comfortable. Some people prefer a therapist of the same gender.
- Positive reviews and recommendations. Ask your doctor for referrals or check patient testimonials.
- Insurance coverage. Call ahead to confirm whether the therapist accepts your insurance plan.
St. Joseph’s Health has highly trained pelvic floor therapists who specialize in treating a variety of conditions. Ask your doctor for a referral to one of our experts.
What Happens in Pelvic Floor Therapy?
“Your first pelvic floor therapy session is all about understanding what’s happening in your body and setting you up for success,” Tanvi says. “Pelvic floor therapy is highly individualized, so your therapist will create a plan tailored to your needs.”
Starting pelvic floor therapy can feel a little intimidating but knowing what to expect can help ease any concerns. Your first session will involve a thorough assessment, where your therapist will take time to understand your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan.
Each session is designed to help you feel more in control of your pelvic health. Your therapist will guide you through exercises and techniques that are both effective and comfortable, helping to improve muscle function and relieve symptoms. These may include:
- Strengthening exercises – If your pelvic floor is weak, targeted movements can help rebuild muscle tone.
- Relaxation techniques – If your muscles are too tight, therapy will focus on releasing tension.
- Biofeedback – A method that helps you learn to control pelvic floor muscles more effectively.
- Bladder and bowel training – Strategies to improve control and reduce urgency.
- Manual therapy – Hands-on techniques to release tightness or address pain.
- Lifestyle and Behavioral Coaching – Your therapist may also provide dietary guidance (to prevent constipation), bladder training, and posture corrections to support long-term pelvic health.
Most patients see improvement within a few weeks of consistent therapy. Your therapist will monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed.
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy
Many patients see improvements within just a few weeks of consistent therapy. Benefits of pelvic floor therapy include:
- Reduced bladder leaks and improved urinary control – Therapy strengthens and retrains the pelvic muscles, helping to prevent involuntary leaks and improve bladder function.
- Relief from pelvic pain and discomfort – Whether due to muscle tightness, scar tissue, or nerve irritation, pelvic therapy can alleviate chronic pain.
- Increased core strength and stability – The pelvic floor is a key part of the body’s core. Strengthening these muscles enhances overall stability, posture, and balance.
- Improved postpartum recovery – Pregnancy and childbirth can weaken the pelvic floor, leading to issues like incontinence or prolapse. Therapy helps restore strength and function, promoting a smoother recovery.
- Enhanced sexual health and comfort – Pelvic floor therapy can improve blood flow, reduce pain during intimacy, and enhance overall sexual function and confidence.
- Better bowel health – By addressing muscle coordination and dietary factors, therapy can alleviate chronic constipation and improve bowel control.
“One of the most rewarding aspects of pelvic floor therapy is seeing patients regain control of their bodies and their confidence,” says Tanvi Maharaja. “Many people suffer in silence, not realizing that these issues are treatable. Seeking help is the first step toward feeling better.”
Ready to Take Control of Your Pelvic Health?
Pelvic floor dysfunction is common, but it’s not something you have to live with. If you’re experiencing symptoms that impact your quality of life, schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss whether pelvic floor therapy is right for you. Find more information about the services we offer here.
