5 Signs You Need Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

First, What is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy focused on restoring strength, function, and control of the pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor refers to the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues at the base of your pelvis. These muscles play a crucial role in bowel and bladder control, sexual and reproductive function, and core stability and strength.

Because of its involvement in multiple body functions, pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in a variety of ways.

Did you know? 1 in 4 women report experiencing at least one pelvic floor disorder. Unfortunately, these symptoms are often dismissed as “normal” due to their prevalence, but just because they’re common doesn’t mean you have to live with them! Many people silently struggle with symptoms that can be improved through physical therapy.

Pelvic floor physical therapy isn’t just for women, nor is it only for pregnancy or postpartum recovery. It can also help:

• Athletes experiencing pelvic pain or core weakness
• Individuals with chronic pelvic pain or incontinence (bladder or bowel leakage)
• People recovering from abdominal or pelvic surgeries, including men post-prostate surgery

Many people don’t realize their symptoms are related to pelvic floor dysfunction, leading to delayed treatment. Recognizing early signs can prevent long-term issues and restore strength, mobility, and confidence. Below are five signs that you may benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy.

5 Signs You Need Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

You Have Pelvic Pain or Pressure

Pelvic pain and pressure can stem from pelvic floor dysfunction, especially if you experience:

• Pain in the pelvic region, lower back, hips, or tailbone
• Chronic back or hip pain that doesn’t improve with other physical therapy
• A sensation of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis, feeling as if your organs are “falling out”, or  if you have been diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse

You Experience Bladder or Bowel Incontinence

Leaking urine, stool, or gas—especially during daily activities—may indicate pelvic floor dysfunction. Signs include:

• Urinary leakage when sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercising
• A frequent or sudden urge to urinate
• Bowel incontinence—leaking stool or gas, especially when lifting or straining

You Struggle with Constipation or Straining During Bowel Movements

If you frequently experience constipation or difficulty emptying your bowels, your pelvic floor muscles may be contributing to the problem. Signs include:

• Chronic constipation or a feeling of incomplete emptying
• Difficulty relaxing pelvic muscles when going to the bathroom
• Signs of improper bracing or straining, including hemorrhoids or abdominal hernias

You Have Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse or Insertion

Painful penetration—whether during sex, tampon use, or gynecological exams—is not normal and may be related to pelvic floor dysfunction.

You Are Pregnant or Postpartum

Pelvic floor therapy is highly beneficial both during pregnancy and after childbirth.

• During pregnancy, pelvic floor therapy helps:
• Manage pain and prepare for hormonal and postural changes
• Guide safe exercise participation
• Implement strategies for labor and delivery preparation
• Postpartum, after both vaginal and cesarean births includes:
• Addressing abdominal separation (diastasis recti)
• Managing pain and restoring pelvic function
• Helping with bladder control and core strength

How Does Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Work?

Pelvic floor therapy addresses multiple factors contributing to dysfunction and may include:

• Evaluation and treatment of pelvic floor strength, mobility, and coordination to identify points of dysfunction
• Internal assessment (if appropriate) to examine muscle function, endurance, and potential pain points
• Breathing and relaxation techniques to improve pelvic muscle coordination
• Manual therapy (internal or external) to relieve tension and pain in pelvic muscles
• Exercise prescription —since the pelvic floor works alongside your core, treatment often includes strengthening the back, abdominals, and hips
• Form modifications for running, lifting, and jumping for pressure modification
• Lifestyle modifications such as nutrition, sleep, and bladder retraining to support pelvic health
• Post-surgical and postpartum care, including wound healing and pain management

What’s Next?

If any of these symptoms sound familiar, pelvic floor physical therapy can help! Just like any other muscle dysfunction, the sooner you address it, the faster you can heal and regain confidence in your body.

If you’re ready to:

> Stop leaking when you cough, sneeze, or exercise

> Get rid of pelvic pain and discomfort

> Reconnect with your core and feel strong again

We are ready to get you back to doing what you love – without pain or limitations! Book a pelvic health evaluation here. We have specialists across the country ready to help finally identify and treat your pelvic floor symptoms!