By: Lisanne Meiners McCuller, PT, DPT, Pelvic Health Specialist at the Woman’s Center for Wellness
Pelvic problems, such as incontinence and sexual dysfunction, can be life-changing for women and men. As a pelvic therapist, my goal is to give individuals the freedom to continue a normal lifestyle. This all starts with strengthening the pelvic floor and core muscles.
A weakened or damaged pelvic floor can cause the following symptoms:
- Urinary: Urinary leakage, incontinence, urgency, increased frequency or difficulty emptying the bladder
- Prolapse of the pelvic organs
- Intestine: Constipation, difficulty passing stool, or pain associated with bowel movements and incontinence
- Women’s Health: Pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, usual pain during pregnancy, pain after childbirth (vaginal or caesarean section) and abdominopelvic dissection (separation of abdominal musclesdue to pregnancy)
- Men’s Health: Difficulty in urinary and sexual function after prostatectomy and sexual dysfunction
The benefits of pelvic therapy
Pelvic therapy aims to optimize the function of the pelvic floor muscles, which involves much more than Kegel exercises. Therefore, it is important to get an evaluation to determine the cause of your problem.
Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to problems, but so can overactive pelvic floor muscles. If you have overactive pelvic floor muscles, doing kegels could make your symptoms worse. Or if you perform a Kegel exercise incorrectly, you can make your problem worse.
A pelvic therapist will talk with you about your concerns and medical history and educate you about the anatomy and function of the pelvis as it relates to your symptoms. You will be taught how to properly activate your pelvic floor muscles as well as properly relax/lengthen your pelvic floor muscles.
Don’t excuse pelvic problems away
A woman’s pelvic floor is affected tremendously during pregnancy and childbirth. So if you have children, come see us! I always encourage pregnant women to see a pelvic floor therapist during the 4 yearsu trimester to ensure proper recovery and prevent future problems.
Over the years, friends commented on issues they would have as young mothers during pregnancy and after giving birth (urine leakage, prolapse, pain during intercourse). They would say things like, “Oh, it’s just normal. I’ve had babies. It’s just the way it is.”
My mom friends were telling me about problems they were having during menopause and the postmenopausal years (prolapse, pain on intercourse, leaking urine and/or stool) and I heard them say again, “That’s right…” I’m just getting old.
Having my own children has definitely given me a better perspective of the changes that occur in our bodies and the challenges associated with those changes. I wanted people to know that just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s NORMAL. Remember, you don’t have to live with problems that can be easily solved.
Difficult conditions for discussion
Talking about pelvic issues is difficult, I understand. Many people deal with their problems for years because they feel uncomfortable talking about it. Often patients think they are the only ones experiencing these problems. These conditions are more common than most people think.
Not addressing the problem can affect your marriage, work, social life, daily activities and feelings of general self-worth. It is truly a privilege to be able to work with my patients, listen to their concerns, educate them and help them improve their quality of life.
What makes the woman’s treatment different
At Woman’s Therapy, we understand that everyone is different and their issues are unique. Many patients may have common symptoms, but no two stories are the same, so all treatment plans are tailored. You will play a key role in directing your treatment, so we take the time to educate you and answer your questions. We’ve spent time investing in our treatment environment and technology because we want you to succeed.
For more information or to schedule a private treatment consultation, visit our page website or contact our patient navigator at 225-924-8709.
