UNLOCKING THE SECRETS OF PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY FOR WOMEN
Shalisa Wall, B.A., A.S.
Founder of "Shalisa's Sisters"| Women's Advocate| Public Speaker| Veteran| Social Service Servant| Social Justice Activist | Volunteer I Content Creator
In the 2024, “Winning Every Wednesday” series, Shalisa’s Sisters continues its mission of providing Female Survivors of Domestic Violence with uplifting, empowering, transformative information, resources, and guidance intended to deepen your self-awareness and enrich your life. Please note, Shalisa Sisters is a Safety Zone for you to share and be Yourself because you’re more than Enough!
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??????????? Quite honestly, I only recently heard the term “Pelvic Floor Therapy” (P.F.T.) I was introduced to this condition through a commercial I saw offering Pelvic Floor Therapy services; of course, my curiosity was peaked, and I had to investigate this strange new term. What I learned was that I had most of the symptoms and I’m definitely a candidate to receive a P.F.T.
Being a woman of a particular age and having delivered two children of my own plus experiencing Menopause I’m no longer embarrassed to admit that I’m impacted by this medical condition and plan to speak to my doctor about this matter.
??????????? In recent years, pelvic floor therapy has emerged from the shadows of obscurity to become a vital component of holistic healthcare for women. This specialized form of therapy addresses a range of issues related to the pelvic floor muscles, which play a crucial role in supporting bodily functions such as bladder control, sexual function, and core stability. Let's delve into what pelvic floor therapy entails, who can benefit from it, and why it's gaining recognition in the medical community. According to the Mayo Clinic, 50% of women are affected by urinary incontinence.
Understanding the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that stretch like a hammock from the pubic bone to the tailbone. These muscles support the pelvic organs—the bladder, uterus, rectum and helps control bladder and bowel functions.
When You Should Consult Your Medical Team about Pelvic Floor Therapy
Issues with the pelvic floor can arise due to various factors, including childbirth, surgery, chronic constipation, persistent coughing, aging, or pelvic trauma. Common conditions that may benefit from pelvic floor therapy include:
1.???? Urinary Incontinence: This includes stress incontinence (leakage when sneezing, coughing, or exercising) and urgent incontinence (sudden, intense urge to urinate and/or involuntary loss of urine).
2.???? Pelvic Organ Prolapse: When pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum descend into the vaginal canal or anus due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
3.???? Sexual Dysfunction: Including pain during intercourse (dyspareunia).
4.???? Chronic Pelvic Pain: Persistent pain in the pelvic region, often without a clear cause.
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What Happens During Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is typically conducted by specially trained physical therapists who use a variety of techniques tailored to each individual's needs. The process usually begins with a comprehensive assessment to identify specific issues and goals. Techniques commonly employed include:
·??????? Pelvic Floor Exercises: Also known as Kegel exercises, these strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve control over bladder and bowel functions. Kegel seats and hand held products are electronic devices that automatically do the Kegel exercises for you; they range from $70-4,000 and can be found by using an Internet search engine.
·??????? Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to release tight or overactive muscles and improve mobility in the pelvic area.
·??????? Biofeedback: Using sensors to provide visual or auditory cues that help patients learn to relax or contract specific muscles.
·??????? Education and Behavioral Modifications: Teaching strategies such as proper toileting techniques, posture improvement, and dietary changes to support pelvic health.
·??????? Electrical Stimulation: Used in some cases to help strengthen or retrain muscles.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy
The benefits of pelvic floor therapy extend beyond symptom relief. By addressing underlying muscle dysfunction and promoting pelvic health, therapy can enhance overall quality of life, restore confidence, and prevent further complications. Many patients experience:
·??????? Improved Bladder Control: Reduced frequency of leaks and urgent urinary episodes.
·??????? Enhanced Sexual Function: Reduced pain during intercourse and improved sexual satisfaction.
·??????? Reduced Pelvic Pain: Relief from chronic discomfort.
·??????? Prevention of Further Complications: Addressing pelvic floor issues promptly can prevent worsening conditions like prolapse or severe incontinence.
Who Can Benefit?
Anyone experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction should consider consulting a pelvic floor therapist. This includes women post-childbirth, individuals with chronic pelvic pain, and anyone struggling with urinary or bowel control issues.
领英推荐
I hope your takeaway is gaining a better understanding about your urinary health. Pelvic floor therapy represents a significant advancement in rehabilitative medicine, offering targeted solutions to issues that were once considered taboo or simply endured. As awareness grows and medical understanding deepens, more individuals are finding relief and reclaiming their quality of life through this specialized form of therapy. Whether you're seeking relief from discomfort or aiming to enhance your pelvic health, pelvic floor therapy stands ready to support you on your journey to wellness; if you’re experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms; please consult your PCP, a urologist or specialized board-certified medical professional.
RESOURCES:
National Domestic Violence Hotline-?If you or someone you know is in an abusive romantic relationship and needs resources, please call?1-800-799-7233.?TTY?1-800-787-3224.?Text- “START” to 88788. Open?24/7, 365?by call/text/chat (You can speak to representatives in English & Espanol).?https://www.thehotline.org/
Mayo Clinic-The article provides in-depth information about Pelvic Floor Therapy, cause/treatment. https://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/physical-medicine-rehabilitation/news/treating-patients-with-pelvic-floor-dysfunction/mac-20431390
REFERENCES:
Pelvic Floor Therapy. Google search
“Is urine incontinence normal for women?” November 7, 2022. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/is-urine-incontinence-normal-for-women
“Urinary Incontinence Seat Cushion Pelvic Floor Exerciser Pelvic Floor Chair” ?$3,059.99 USD.
“Pelvic Floor Exerciser” $26.99 USD.
?SCRIPTURE OF THE DAY:
Proverbs 31:25-26 NIV: "She speaks with wisdom and teaches with kindness. She opens her mouth with discretion, and on her tongue is the law of kindness."
?DISCLAIMER:
Over 10 years ago, I survived Domestic Violence, my heart’s desire is to provide other female survivors to safely walk your path of recovery, regain your powerful voice and live your absolute best life. As a lay person, I share my opinions in the “Wining Every Wednesday” series to uplift you and provide informative resources. The articles and my opinions are not meant to replace legal, medical, or professional advice. Please note, I am not legally liable, nor responsible for any decision you make regarding your legal/illegal actions/inactions, nor behaviors of any person in a civil or criminal manner as it pertains to your Domestic Violence situation, family, and life circumstances.?Please comply with all local, state, and federal laws/ordinances as it relates to your legal rights/laws. I implore you to consider?seeking professional legal counsel, contact Domestic Violence professionals and related supports.?When leaving an abusive relationship, please always use sound judgement and plan accordingly based upon your personal situation. In emergency situations immediately call and/or text 911 or other legal authorities about your circumstances. *Remember,?you deserve love?and to be treated with Dignity, Honor, and Respect. Thank you for your continued support.
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