Your Concise Guide to Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is gaining attention both in clinics and on social media, and for good reason. Many people silently suffer from pelvic floor disorders without knowing that evidence-based, non-surgical treatment options exist. This option includes physiotherapy, which offers a structured path to recovery. If you're dealing with pelvic pain, incontinence, or muscle dysfunction, this guide could help you.

What Is the Function of the Pelvic Floor

While often overlooked in conversations about health, the pelvic floor plays a vital role in our everyday functioning. Yet, many people don’t fully understand what it does until something goes wrong.

In both men and women, this group of muscles supports critical pelvic organs, maintains continence, and contributes to sexual health and overall stability. And in countries like Singapore, where populations are ageing and lifestyle-related health issues are on the rise, understanding pelvic floor function is becoming increasingly important.

A recent study found that 14.7% of women reported one or more types of pelvic floor disorders. While statistically more common among women, this condition also happens to men, especially those recovering from prostate surgery or dealing with chronic pelvic pain. Both benefit significantly from pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Pelvic Floor Function

The pelvic floor is made up of muscles situated at the bottom of the pelvis. They help hold up key internal organs, including the bladder, bowel, and, in women, the uterus. The pelvic floor muscles control functions like urination, bowel movements, and sexual activity. Just like any other muscles in the body, they need strength, flexibility, and coordination to function well.

A strong and healthy pelvic floor helps with posture, core stability, and even breathing. It also plays a key role in managing intra-abdominal pressure during activities like lifting, coughing, and sneezing.

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction happens when the muscles are either too weak, too tight, or don’t work in sync. This can cause problems such as:

• Urinary incontinence
• Pelvic organ prolapse
• Pelvic pain
• Constipation or straining during bowel movements
• Sexual dysfunction
• Lower back or tailbone discomfort

Many people with pelvic floor muscle dysfunction are unaware of what’s happening in the pelvic region until symptoms start interfering with daily life.

Cause of Pelvic Floor Disorders

Pelvic floor problems can develop due to several factors. Common causes include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Surgery in the pelvic region
• Ageing and menopause
• Obesity
• Chronic constipation
• High-impact exercise or heavy lifting
• Trauma or injury (e.g. to the tailbone)
• Persistent coughing
• Poor posture and weak core muscles
• Psychological stress or trauma

Men can develop pelvic floor dysfunction after prostate surgery or as a result of ongoing pelvic pain. Women may face issues like organ prolapse or urinary incontinence post-childbirth.

How Do You Know Whether You Need Pelvic Floor Therapy

You may benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy if you experience:

• Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, or exercise
• Difficulty holding in bowel movements
• Pelvic pain and discomfort during daily activities
• Pain during or after sexual intercourse
• A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region
• Incomplete bladder or bowel emptying
• Erectile dysfunction

At Phoenix Rehab, our physiotherapist can help assess your symptoms and create a personalised treatment plan.

Does Pelvic Floor Therapy Work

Pelvic floor therapy is clinically proven to improve muscle function, reduce symptoms, and enhance quality of life. It’s a key part of pelvic floor rehabilitation and is supported by research worldwide.

How Soon Can You See Results

Results can vary depending on the severity of the pelvic floor issues and how consistent you are with treatment. Many people start noticing improvements in their pelvic floor function within 4 to 6 weeks of consistent pelvic floor physiotherapy, with significant changes appearing after 8 to 12 weeks.

The exact timeframe varies depending on the patient, the severity of the condition, and how consistently they follow the prescribed exercises and treatment plan.

How Physiotherapy Helps (Benefits)

Physiotherapy focuses on both strengthening and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles. A holistic approach helps patients understand their bodies and manage their symptoms effectively.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Women

Women often seek pelvic floor physiotherapy for pregnancy-related issues, organ prolapse, or pain after childbirth. Physiotherapists help with pelvic floor muscle retraining, pain relief, and improving muscle tone.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Men

For men, pelvic floor physical therapy can address urinary issues, chronic pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction. Therapists often focus on improving awareness, control, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles.

What Happens During Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

An initial assessment typically includes questions about your medical history, bowel and bladder habits, and pelvic symptoms. Depending on comfort and consent, an internal examination may be performed to assess your pelvic floor muscle strength and tension.

Pelvic Floor Exercises

Tailored pelvic floor exercises (often called Kegels) help you learn to contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles properly. These exercises can be done lying down, sitting, or standing, depending on your ability.

Strengthening the Core

A strong core supports the pelvic floor. Your therapist may include exercises that activate deep abdominal muscles and stabilise the pelvis, improving your overall posture and control.

Managing Incontinence

Pelvic floor rehabilitation for urinary incontinence may involve bladder training, pelvic floor exercises, and education on proper voiding habits.

Addressing Diastasis Recti

For postpartum women, separation of abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) may affect the pelvic floor. Therapy helps restore core alignment and muscle balance.

Risks and Potential Side Effects

With pelvic floor physiotherapy, some people may feel temporary soreness or discomfort after manual therapy or internal assessment. Always communicate openly with your therapist to adjust treatment if needed.

How Long Should You Go for Physical Therapy

Many people benefit from weekly sessions over 6–12 weeks, depending on the severity of symptoms. Follow-up assessments track progress and help adjust the treatment plan as needed. Long-term success often depends on at-home exercise consistency and lifestyle changes.

What You Can Do at Home

Alongside professional sessions, home care is vital. Tips include:

• Performing prescribed pelvic floor exercises daily
• Maintaining good toilet habits (no straining)
• Staying active with pelvic-friendly movements
• Using digital tools or products like pelvic floor training apps
• Staying hydrated and eating a fibre-rich diet
• Reducing habits that strain the pelvic floor, such as heavy lifting or prolonged sitting

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a practical and effective treatment option for people facing pelvic floor disorders. A trained therapist can help guide your recovery through a tailored plan and management strategies. If you suspect pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, don’t ignore the symptoms. Speak to a pelvic floor therapist or visit a local physiotherapy clinic in your area, even if it’s just to get informed.