The Pelvic floor – problems & treatment

With physiotherapist Carolyn Lindsay

 

What can happen if the pelvic floor muscles are too weak?

  • leaking urine if you cough, sneeze or exercise
  • having to rush to the toilet to empty your bladder
  • lack of enjoyment or reduced sensation during sex
  • erectile problems & premature ejaculation – pelvic floor exercises can have effects comparable to drugs like Viagra
  • difficulty emptying the bladder or bowels
  • prolapsed womb, bladder or bowel – a feeling of something ‘coming down’ or a heaviness
  • having to rush to empty the bowel
  • leaking from the bowel
  • Poor posture & a poorly toned waist

What can happen if the pelvic floor is over-tight?

  • pelvic pain & groin pain
  • perineal, vulval & anal pain
  • problems emptying the bladder or bowels
  • pain during sex
  • inability to have penetrative sex
  • increased likelihood of tearing or difficulty during childbirth

How can treatment help?

Carolyn is an experienced specialist pelvic floor physiotherapist with many years’ experience treating women and men. At the initial assessment she will discuss your problems in detail and agree a plan for treatment with you.
Treatment may include:

  • advice on diet, exercise & lifestyle
  • pelvic floor exercises
  • An internal exam is useful to guide treatment
  • muscle stimulation – if your muscles are very weak regular use of a small machine can help to strengthen them up
  • biofeedback – this measures your pelvic floor activity & shows you on a computer screen so that you can learn to strengthen or relax your pelvic floor
  • For chronic pain or over-tight muscles: massage, acupuncture, breathing & relaxation methods may be used
  • Home exercises – working at home too speeds up your treatment

Many people suffer in silence, don’t be one of them.
All assessment & treatment is completely private and confidential.
A leaflet is also available giving further details of pelvic floor symptoms, causes & treatment.

Carolyn Lindsay is a Specialist Physiotherapist in Pelvic Foor fitness & in Women’s Health. She has postgraduate training in assessing and treating pelvic floor problems and extensive experience.

To book call Stillpoint: 0114 258 6133

Carolyn’s personal website www.womenshealththerapy.co.uk

 

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