Overview
Pelvic health physiotherapy is a specialist area of physiotherapy that focuses on problems occurring around the abdomen and pelvis. We focus on restoring strength, function and movement within the pelvic area. We are specialist physiotherapists and we have undergone further training into this area of the body.
We treat women over the age of 18 with:
- Stress incontinence – urinary leaking with certain activities.
- Overactive bladder – having a sudden desire to go to the toilet immediately with possible leaking of urine before reaching the toilet. There may be a need to visit the toilet more frequently than normal.
- Mixed urinary incontinence – a combination of stress incontinence and overactive bladder.
- Small to moderate prolapse of the front and/or back vaginal wall(s) – weakening of the support structures that support the vagina, resulting in bulging of the pelvic organs into the vagina.
- Pain related pelvic floor dysfunction e.g. vaginismus and vulvodynia.
- Post natal pelvic girdle pain, perineal trauma and diastasis rectus abdominus.
- Faecal incontinence – leakage of faeces and wind.
- Obstructive defecation – difficult emptying the bowel, which may or may not be associated with constipation.
- Pelvic girdle pain-pain around the pelvis, hips and lower back in pregnancy.
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Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA)
Diastasis Rectus Abdominis (DRA) refers to the thinning and widening of the connective tissue (Linea alba) in the midline abdominal wall.
It is common during and after pregnancy and should be considered relatively normal unless it is significant and does not resolve by 12 weeks postpartum. While DRA should not be feared and has no serious consequences, it can impact abdominal strength and function. If you are unable to continue your usual forms of activity and exercise, then we would recommend you begin an abdominal strengthening programme.
The most effective treatment for DRA are exercises to strengthen the abdominals. You can do any exercise you wish if your tummy does not excessively dome whilst doing so or cause you any pain.
Useful Links
- MUTU system – Provides evidence-based, medically proven workout programmes that helps women during and after pregnancy.
- Restore your core – Offers programmes to help women heal their core and pelvic floor.
