05 Aug Pelvic Floor Dysfunction FAQ

Pelvic Floor Dysfunction FAQ

At Redcliffe Physiotherapy, we know that conversations around pelvic floor function can make some patients uneasy. There’s a lot misconception around a pelvic floor physiotherapy appointment, including who is affected, what the appointment will look like AND is there the possibility of a non-invasive pelvic floor assessment and treatment.

Our pelvic floor expert, Cilla, has taken the time to answer some of the most common pelvic floor dysfunction questions to aid pelvic floor dysfunction sufferers.

What is pelvic floor dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is the inability to completely relax or control your pelvic floor muscles. It occurs when the pelvic floor muscles become weakened or damaged.

Symptoms include

• Chronic pelvic pain that radiates to the groin, abdomen and back.
• Painful sexual intercourse.
• Strong or frequent urge to urinate.
• Burning during urination.
• Urinary incontinence & prolapse.
• Vaginal burning.
• Painful menstrual periods.
• Difficulty with defecation and constipation.

What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?

Common causes of pelvic floor dysfunction include (but are not limited to): childbirth, pregnancy, prostate cancer treatment, obesity, and straining from chronic constipation. 

Who is affected by Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Pelvic Floor dysfunction, urinary incontinence and even faecal incontinence are not just problems for women.  Men can have the same issues, particularly pre and post op prostate surgery.  

Redcliffe physiotherapy can assist with pelvic floor muscle assessment and re-training.  It is always a good idea to get started on this muscle retraining BEFORE surgery, as it aids with recovery post-op.  

How many physiotherapy sessions are needed to treat Pelvic Floor Dysfunction? 

1 physio session before surgery and 3 – 6 post-op over a 3 month period is usually what it takes to get your waterworks working again.

Physiotherapists at Redcliffe Physiotherapy are trained to assist patients in a private and non-invasive manner. Treatment can be provided without invasive assessment measures. 

Do I need to get a referral from my doctor?

You don’t need a doctor’s referral to see a Redcliffe physiotherapist for pelvic floor dysfunction. If a doctor refers you with a chronic disease management plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate on 5 physiotherapy sessions.

What will my first session look like? 

When you visit us at Redcliffe Physiotherapy, we will take a full history of your bladder and bowel function, sexual function, and medical and surgical history. We will also ask you about your fitness levels, and may perform a non-invasive pelvic floor examination. 

Your physiotherapist will then create a treatment plan which may include exercises, biofeedback (electronic monitoring), manual treatment of the muscles, and functional training of the pelvic floor muscles. They’ll also give you advice on your daily exercises and healthy bowel and bladder advice. 

I’m still nervous, and not ready to book an appointment

We understand the pelvic floor dysfunction can be a sensitive topic for some patients, that’s why we handle all physiotherapy sessions with complete patient privacy and care. 

If you’re still nervous about booking a physiotherapy appointment with us, feel free to give us a call on 07 3284 2754 and we can talk you through the process and provide answers for your concerns. 

Remember, pelvic floor dysfunction is a common ailment for adults (male and female), and the sooner you book in a physiotherapy appointment, the sooner you can rehabilitate your pelvic floor