Posted: 29th February, 2024
Issue 15: Pelvic Health Physiotherapy
In Sussex we have a specialist pelvic health team educated in the prevention of pelvic health conditions and help treat those with pelvic health disorders.
Many pelvic floor related problems are treatable or manageable with physiotherapy. Read about what happens at a Physiotherapy Appointment.
Read our previous blog on pelvic health that covers - What is my pelvic floor and how do I exercise it? Or read on for further information on Pelvic Health and your bladder.
Advice Following 3rd or 4th Degree Tear
It is common for birthing people who have a vaginal delivery to experience some degree of grazing or tearing to their perineum during childbirth.
Read More about 3rd or 4th Degree Tears
All birthing people should practice pelvic floor exercises regardless of their type of delivery. These exercises strengthen the muscles around the vagina and back passage and prevent incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse.
Incomplete Bladder Emptying
It is important to ensure you empty your bladder fully to help reduce your risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and cystitis and to avoid overstretching your bladder muscle.
- Always sit down properly on the toilet, leaning forward slightly. Do not ‘hover’ over the seat. This enables your pelvic floor muscles to relax properly and your bladder to fully empty.
- Make sure you give yourself enough time to pass urine. Do not rush
Follow the link below for further general advice and techniques to help with emptying your bladder.
Bladder Training
Bladder training is a way of managing urinary urgency, frequency and urinary incontinence.
Keeping a bladder diary will help your physiotherapist assess your bladder functions.
Follow the link to read more about the Bladder Record Chart.
Images by Student Midwife Studygram Ltd
Stretches to Relax the Pelvis
These stretches are designed to relax the muscles inside and around your pelvis.
They should always be comfortable. Move into the posture so you feel an increased stretch sensation. These stretches should never cause pain.
Self-refer to Physiotherapy
You can now self-refer to physiotherapy services in Sussex.