Pelvic Health Physiotherapists, are Registered Physiotherapists, who have specialized post graduate training which includes using internal (vaginal and rectal) and external “hands-on” or manual techniques to evaluate the function of, treat and re-train the pelvic floor muscles.

Pelvic Health Physiotherapy is the first line of defence for individuals experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. Proper pelvic floor muscle strength, length and coordination are required to avoid dysfunction and pain.

Pelvic floor muscles provide support to the organs that lie on it. The sphincters give us conscious control over the bladder and bowel so that we can control the release of urine, faeces (poo) and flatus (wind) and allow us to delay emptying until it is convenient. When the pelvic floor muscles are contracted, the internal organs are lifted and the sphincters tighten the openings of the vagina, anus and urethra. Relaxing the pelvic floor allows passage of urine and faeces.

Pelvic floor muscles are also important for sexual function in both men and women. In men, it is important for erectile function and ejaculation. In women, voluntary contractions (squeezing) of the pelvic floor contribute to sexual sensation and arousal.

The pelvic floor muscles in women also provide support for the baby during pregnancy and need to be relaxed during the birthing process.

The muscles of the pelvic floor work with the abdominal and back muscles to stabilise and support the spine.

- Pregnancy   

- Childbirth

- Obesity 

- Straining on the Toilet (constipation)     

- Chronic Coughing      

 - Heavy Lifting   

- High Impact Exercise     

- Age