Menopause can be a very overwhelming time for a lot of women. During this period, there are a lot of hormonal changes that can influence the way you feel in your body. Menopause tends to start between the ages of 45 to 55. This can include a range of symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings to vaginal dryness and changes in pelvic health.
How does Menopause affect pelvic health?
Many women don’t realize that menopause can affect pelvic health. As estrogen levels decline, tissues in the vagina, urethra, and bladder can become thinner, drier, and less elastic, leading to a condition called vaginal atrophy. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, burning, and pain during sex. In addition, menopause can also increase the risk of pelvic floor disorders, such as incontinence and prolapse. But don’t worry, many of these conditions can be improved through pelvic physiotherapy!
What is pelvic floor physiotherapy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physiotherapy that focuses on the pelvic floor muscles, which support the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, and rectum) and control bladder and bowel function. Pelvic physiotherapy can help to improve pelvic health during menopause and beyond, providing relief from uncomfortable symptoms and reducing the risk of pelvic floor disorders.
What does Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Involve?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves a range of techniques designed to improve the strength, coordination, and function of the pelvic floor muscles. These techniques may include pelvic floor exercises, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, manual therapy, and education on lifestyle modifications. It is an effective alternative to drug based therapy and surgery, and allows for you to take your health into your own hands.
How Can Pelvic Physiotherapy Help During Menopause?
- Pelvic physiotherapy can help to address a range of pelvic health issues that can arise during menopause, including:
- Vaginal Dryness: Pelvic physiotherapy can help to improve blood flow to the vaginal area, which can increase lubrication and reduce discomfort during intercourse. Additionally, exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles can help to improve vaginal tone and elasticity.
- Urinary Incontinence: Pelvic physiotherapy can help to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles that support the bladder, which can improve bladder control and reduce urinary incontinence.
- Prolapse: Pelvic physiotherapy can help with prolapse symptoms or post-hysterectomy. With a prolapse, there is commonly increased muscle tone causing the organ to descend. This can be improved with exercise and treatment. Post hysterectomy, there can be pelvic floor weakness or altered sensation internally which can also be treated through strengthening and sensitization work.
- Painful Intercourse: Pelvic physiotherapy can help to improve vaginal tone and elasticity, which can reduce pain and discomfort during intercourse.
How can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist near me?
We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
“While menopause symptoms can be challenging, they are not inevitable for everyone and can be managed with the right care. Triangle Physiotherapy offers specialized services to help you navigate this stage of life across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced team can provide personalized treatment plans to alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life.”
What is vaginismus?
Vaginismus is a condition where the muscles around the vagina involuntarily contract, making it difficult or impossible to have vaginal penetration.
Do I have vaginismus?
If you answer yes to one or more of the following questions, you must book an appointment with a pelvic health physiotherapist to find out if you have vaginismus.
“Sex is so uncomfortable for me.”
“Why does it hurt to have sex? My doctor cannot find anything wrong with me.”
“Internal pelvic exams are a no for me – they are so painful.”
“My vagina feels like a fort that is impenetrable. I never realized it was vaginismus.”
“I used to have great sex, but now I close up—it burns and stings.”
“When my partner starts to move inside me, it hurts and we have to stop.”
“I don’t wear tampons because they don’t go in.”
What are the symptoms of vaginismus?
The symptoms may differ between younger and older women, emphasizing the significance of an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment for vaginismus.
The primary symptoms of vaginismus are:
- Sexual penetration seems physically impossible despite repeated attempts
- Difficulty inserting tampons from youth even after repeated attempts.
- Difficulty undergoing internal pelvic/gynecological exam
What are the causes of Vaginismus?
The exact causes of vaginismus can vary from person to person, and in many cases, the condition is multifactorial, meaning that multiple factors may contribute to its development. Here are some potential causes and contributing factors:
- Psychological factors: Emotional or psychological factors can play a significant role in vaginismus. Past traumatic experiences, such as sexual abuse, rape, or a history of painful intercourse, can contribute to the development of vaginismus. Anxiety, fear, guilt, or negative beliefs about sex can also trigger involuntary muscle contractions.
- Fear of pain or discomfort: Some individuals may develop vaginismus due to a fear of pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse. This fear can be based on previous painful experiences, cultural or religious beliefs, or misinformation about sex.
- Relationship issues: Difficulties in the relationship, such as poor communication, lack of trust, unresolved conflicts, or sexual problems, can contribute to the development or persistence of vaginismus. Emotional or physical distance between partners can create tension and anxiety during sexual activity.
- Cultural or religious factors: Cultural or religious beliefs and practices surrounding sex can influence a person’s perception of sexuality and contribute to the development of vaginismus. Upbringing that emphasizes guilt, shame, or negative attitudes towards sex can lead to involuntary muscle contractions during attempts at vaginal penetration.
- Lack of sexual education: Insufficient knowledge or understanding about sexual anatomy, arousal, and relaxation techniques can contribute to vaginismus. Inadequate sexual education may lead to misconceptions, anxiety, and fear surrounding sexual activity.
- Medical conditions or infections: Certain medical conditions, such as vaginal infections, urinary tract infections, endometriosis, or pelvic inflammatory disease, can cause pain during sex, leading to the development of vaginismus. Vaginal dryness or atrophy, often associated with menopause, can also contribute to discomfort and muscle tightness.
- Traumatic childbirth experiences: Some women may develop vaginismus after experiencing a traumatic childbirth, especially if they had a difficult or painful delivery. The association of vaginal penetration with the traumatic event can trigger involuntary muscle contractions.
What are the treatment options for vaginismus?
Pelvic health physiotherapy is a common treatment option for vaginismus. It involves a physical therapist working with the patient to help relax and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles.
Possible treatments include:
- Progressive pelvic floor muscle relaxation
- Biofeedback or muscle stimulation
- Yoga-based therapy
- Hip mobility work
- Lumbar spine mobility work
What can I expect during an assessment and treatment for vaginismus at Triangle Physiotherapy?
Assessment
The first step in pelvic health physiotherapy for vaginismus is usually an assessment of the patient’s pelvic floor muscles. This may involve an internal examination, but the therapist will always seek the patient’s consent and respect their comfort level.
Treatment
Once the assessment is complete, the therapist will develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s needs. This may involve exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles or techniques to help the patient relax those muscles.
Techniques
One common technique used in pelvic health physiotherapy for vaginismus is called progressive muscle relaxation. This involves tensing and then releasing the pelvic floor muscles in a controlled way to help the patient become more aware of them and learn how to control them.
Another technique that may be used is biofeedback. This involves using sensors to monitor the activity of the pelvic floor muscles, which can help the patient learn to control them more effectively.
Overall, pelvic health physiotherapy can be an effective treatment for vaginismus, but it is important to work with a qualified physical therapist who has experience in this area. With patience, persistence, and the right guidance, many people with vaginismus can overcome their condition and enjoy fulfilling sexual relationships.
How do I find a pelvic health physiotherapist near me?
We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you. Book an Appointment today!
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
“Managing vaginismus and improving intimacy is possible with the right physiotherapy care. Triangle Physiotherapy offers specialized pelvic health services across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced physiotherapists can help you overcome pain and enhance your intimate relationships through personalized treatment plans.”
How do I choose the Best Physiotherapist Near Me?
When choosing a physiotherapist, it’s essential to find someone who meets your specific needs and can provide high-quality care. Here are some steps you can take to help you pick the best physiotherapist:
- Ask for recommendations: Ask your friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations. Personal referrals can be valuable as they come from people you trust.
- Research their experience and specialization: Look for a physiotherapist with experience and expertise in treating your specific condition or injury. Physiotherapy covers a broad range of areas, such as sports injuries, post-surgery rehabilitation, back pain, or neurological disorders. Choosing someone who specializes in your area of concern can increase the chances of effective treatment.
- Check credentials and qualifications: Ensure that the physiotherapist you’re considering is licensed and registered to practice in Ontario. You can usually verify their credentials through the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
- Read reviews and testimonials: Search online for reviews or testimonials from previous patients. Although individual experiences may vary, reading about others’ experiences can give you an idea of the physiotherapist’s reputation and patient satisfaction.
- Assess communication and rapport: A good physiotherapist should listen and communicate well. They should be able to understand your concerns, explain your condition or treatment plan clearly, and answer any questions you may have. It’s important to feel comfortable and have a good rapport with your physiotherapist to ensure a positive therapeutic relationship.
- Consider practical factors: Take into account the location of the physiotherapy clinic or practice. It’s generally more convenient to choose a clinic that is easily accessible to you, whether it’s close to your home or workplace. Additionally, check their availability and scheduling options to see if they can accommodate your needs.
- Insurance coverage: If you have health insurance, check if the clinic provides direct billing to your insurance. This way you only have to pay a copayment or deductible if required by your plan.
- Initial Assessment: Schedule an initial assessment with the physiotherapist to discuss your condition, treatment options, and their approach. This can give you a sense of their knowledge, professionalism, and whether their treatment philosophy aligns with your goals.
What are the types of specializations that physiotherapists can have?
Physiotherapists have training in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a wide range of physical conditions and injuries. Physiotherapists can specialize in various areas of practice based on their interests, expertise, and advanced training. Some common specializations that our physiotherapists in Toronto have include:
- FCAMPT – The highest level of training in orthopedic manual therapy
- McKenzie Certification
- Cancer Rehab
- Pelvic Health – Assessing and treating pelvic floor conditions in men and women
- Vestibular Rehab & Concussion Therapy
- Running Assessments
- Sports Physiotherapy
These are just a few examples of the specializations within physiotherapy. It’s worth noting that some physiotherapists may have expertise in multiple areas or choose to focus on specific sub-specialties within these broader categories.
Our More Locations
Physiotherapy Etobicoke | Physiotherapy Oakville | Physiotherapy North York | Physiotherapy Toronto | Physiotherapy Lawrence Park | Physiotherapy Mississauga | Physiotherapy Queens Quay | Physiotherapy Mississauga Erin Mills | Physiotherapy Liberty Village
Click HERE to book an appointment with a physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.
- Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Physiotherapy Clinic – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Physiotherapy Clinic Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Physiotherapy Clinics Mississauga – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
“Choosing the best physiotherapist near you is crucial for effective treatment and recovery. Triangle Physiotherapy offers expert services across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to your needs, helping you achieve your health goals.”
After a breast cancer diagnosis, many women are left to face new challenges caused by the side effects of their cancer treatments. While some side effects tend to disappear on their own over time, many side effects can have long-lasting physical and emotional consequences.
What are the common side effects of breast cancer treatment?
Breast surgery, such as a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction, can cause many women to experience pain and physical limitations such as difficulty moving their arm, weakness, swelling, and scar tightness. In addition, some women may also develop pathologies such as post-mastectomy pain syndrome and axillary web syndrome following surgery.
Furthermore, both chemotherapy and radiation therapy also have their side effects, including fatigue, tingling, numbness in the hands/feet (chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy), and radiation fibrosis, among many others.
These physical and psychological side effects of breast cancer treatments can significantly impact your daily functioning and independence both at home and at work. Research shows that both physiotherapy and exercise can help to alleviate many of these side effects and play an essential role in your recovery during and after breast cancer.
What are the benefits of breast cancer rehabilitation?
Physiotherapy interventions can help you to:
- Restore your arm movement
- Improve your shoulder, trunk, and abdominal strength
- Decrease your pain
- Improve your flexibility
- Improve your energy and endurance
- Reduce your risk of developing lymphedema
- Improve your posture and body awareness
In addition, exercise is also known to address many side effects, such as bone density issues related to hormonal medication, reducing your risk of developing lymphedema, and improving cancer-related fatigue in addition to also reducing your risk of reoccurrence. Physiotherapists are exercise specialists who will work with you to provide a safe and effective exercise program.
At Triangle, we are committed to helping women improve their health and well-being during each stage of their cancer recovery.
What are the components of breast cancer rehabilitation?
Every woman undergoing breast cancer treatment is different and hence will have unique rehabilitation needs. Your physiotherapist will use a combination of treatment techniques best suited for your condition. Interventions may include:
- Manual (hands-on) techniques such as soft-tissue mobilization and myofascial release to improve your flexibility and manage conditions such as radiation fibrosis and axillary web syndrome.
- Scar Massage
- Exercises to improve your shoulder movement and strength
- Exercises to improve your endurance and overall energy levels
- Individualized education regarding risk reduction and early detection of lymphedema
- Energy conservation techniques
- Education on how to return to physical activity
- Home exercise program
What are the most common misconceptions about Breast Cancer Rehabilitation?
There is a common misconception that for months or years after breast cancer surgery or radiation therapy, women should not use the arm on the affected side for lifting or working because they might get lymphedema or other problems. Research tells us this is FALSE, in fact with a proper physiotherapy program most women can achieve greater strength and function in the affected arm than what they had before surgery; with no increase in the chances of getting lymphedema.
Another misconception is that Breast Cancer Physiotherapy is the same as an exercise program. Physiotherapists are highly trained professionals able to independently diagnose and treat problems with pain or movement using a wide range of assessment methods and treatments, of which a specialized exercise program is one piece.
What does a typical session at Triangle Physiotherapy look like?
Your Physiotherapist will conduct a thorough assessment of the issue. This will include asking questions about your cancer treatment and the problems you’re having, other relevant medical information, and questions about your goals for therapy. They will do a physical assessment of the problem which could include assessing movements, strength and fitness, scar tissue, nerve function, and/or injuries from radiation or surgery. Your Physiotherapist will then clearly communicate all of their findings to you and describe their proposed treatment plan.
How many sessions will I need?
There is no one recipe for the number of treatment sessions or the length of time required for full recovery. Some conditions will require only a few sessions while others may require more intensive treatments and several sessions. Whatever your prognosis, your physiotherapist at Physiotherapy Oakville will clearly communicate expected timelines with you.
Joining Physiotherapy Oakville ensures you receive a personalized treatment plan based on scientific assessment and evidence-based practices. Research has shown that tailored physiotherapy programs can significantly enhance recovery outcomes. By understanding your specific needs and providing clear communication about your progress, the team at Physiotherapy Oakville helps you achieve optimal recovery in the most efficient timeframe.
What types of healthcare professionals can be involved in breast cancer rehabilitation at Triangle Physiotherapy?
Breast cancer rehabilitation is typically delivered by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals. This team may include physiotherapists, acupuncturists, pelvic health physiotherapists, exercise specialists, nutritionists, and massage therapists.
Click HERE to book an appointment with a cancer rehab physiotherapist at one of our eight locations.
- Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Physiotherapy Clinic – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Physiotherapy Clinics – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Physiotherapy Clinic Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Physiotherapy Clinics Mississauga – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
“Rehabilitation after breast cancer treatment is crucial for regaining strength and improving quality of life. Triangle Physiotherapy offers expert services across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced physiotherapists provide personalized care to help you recover and thrive after breast cancer treatment.”
Written by Roshni Ravi, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist.
Sexual health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, but it’s not always an easy topic to talk about. Many women experience sexual health dysfunctions at some point in their lives, but they may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help by way of pelvic floor physiotherapy. There are currently large gaps in the sexual education provided at the elementary school level. Many sex ed classes are focused on birth control and how terrible periods are.
But there is not enough information, if any, on sexual health conditions and how to seek help. We’ve had a lot of conversations with patients about what they wish they had learned in sex-ed. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most commonly asked questions about sexual health dysfunctions in women and offer some tips for managing them.
What is pelvic floor physiotherapy?
Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on treating the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic floor which is a group of muscles that form a supportive hammock-like structure at the base of the pelvis. They play a key role in maintaining continence, supporting the pelvic organs, and providing stability to the spine and hips.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves a range of exercises, manual therapy techniques, and education to help individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction. Common conditions that may benefit from pelvic floor physiotherapy include:
- urinary and fecal incontinence,
- pelvic pain,
- pelvic organ prolapse, and
- sexual dysfunction.
Why am I suffering from a low libido? Can pelvic floor physiotherapy help?
Many women experience a decrease in sexual desire at some point in their lives. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, and relationship issues. To manage low libido, it’s important to address any underlying issues and make self-care a priority. This can include:
- practicing stress-management techniques,
- getting enough sleep, and
- engaging in regular exercise.
Why does it hurt to have sex?
Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, is a common sexual health dysfunction in women. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including vaginal dryness, infections, and hormonal imbalances. To manage painful intercourse, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. This may include using:
- lubricants,
- treating infections,
- or using hormonal therapy.
I struggle to orgasm during sex, why does that happen?
Many women struggle to achieve orgasm during sexual activity which can be caused by a variety of factors, including, stress, relationship issues, and hormonal imbalances. To manage orgasmic dysfunction, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or therapist to address any underlying issues and develop strategies for improving sexual function. This may include:
- practicing mindfulness or
- engaging in self-exploration techniques.
My vagina feels like a fort that is impenetrable. Why can I not have sexual intercourse?
Vaginismus is a condition in which the muscles of the vaginal wall contract involuntarily, making intercourse difficult or impossible. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including past trauma and anxiety. To manage vaginismus, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or therapist to address any underlying issues and develop strategies for managing anxiety and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles.
What is vulvodynia? Do I need pelvic floor physiotherapy?
Vulvodynia is a chronic pain condition that affects the vulva, or external genitalia. It can cause burning, stinging, or itching sensations, and can make sexual activity painful or uncomfortable. To manage vulvodynia, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan. This may include:
- using topical creams or medications,
- practicing relaxation techniques, or
- seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist.
Help! I pee my pants!
Urinary incontinence is a common condition in which urine leaks from the bladder involuntarily. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, pregnancy, and pelvic floor dysfunction. To manage urinary incontinence, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider or pelvic floor physiotherapist to develop a treatment plan. This may include:
- pelvic floor exercises,
- bladder training, or
- medications.
What are the signs of menopause?
Menopause can cause a variety of changes in sexual function, including vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and painful intercourse. To manage these changes, it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan. This may include:
- using hormonal therapy,
- vaginal moisturizers, or
- engaging in regular sexual activity to maintain pelvic floor health.
Where can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist near me?
We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
In conclusion…
Many women experience sexual health dysfunctions at some point in their lives, but they may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help. It’s important to remember that sexual health is an important aspect of overall health and well-being, and it’s important to prioritize it in your self-care routine. If you’re experiencing any issues related to sexual function, don’t hesitate to talk to your healthcare provider or a therapist about your options. Remember, there is help!
Click here to book your consultation with one of our knowledgeable and compassionate pelvic health physiotherapists.
“Pelvic floor physiotherapy is essential for improving sexual health and overall well-being. Triangle Physiotherapy offers specialized pelvic health services across the GTA, including Physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. Our experienced team can help you address pelvic floor issues and enhance your sexual health through personalized treatment plans.”
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy refers to a specific and advanced field within physiotherapy that deals with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction can impact people of any age or gender and the term describes several conditions that may affect the urinary, reproductive, digestive, sexual, and/or stability systems in the pelvis.
Pelvic Health Physiotherapists have post-graduate training in pelvic health and can resolve many pelvic floor issues in people of all genders and ages.
What type of conditions can Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy help women with?
Pelvic Health physiotherapists at our clinics can help women with the following:
- Pelvic floor and abdominal weakness
- Bladder and bowel problems
- Pelvic pain (endometriosis, bowel, bladder pain)
- Pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
- Sexual dysfunction, vaginismus, painful intercourse
- Prenatal and postnatal care
- Diastasis Recti
- Labour and delivery prep
Can a pelvic health physiotherapist help men?
Pelvic Health physiotherapists at our clinics can help men with the following:
- Pelvic pain
- Bladder and bowel control problems
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pre and post-prostatectomy
Can your pelvic health physiotherapists help transgender individuals?
Yes, our pelvic health physiotherapists can certainly help transgender individuals.
- Surgical preparation and recovery post-surgery
- Pelvic pain – Endometriosis or PCOS
- Intimacy pain, difficulty with penetration
- Pregnancy and postnatal care for Trans-parents
Pelvic Floor Assessment – what does it entail?
Your first appointment will last about an hour. Your pelvic health physiotherapist will discuss your medical history, do a thorough pelvic health assessment and propose a detailed individualized treatment plan to achieve your pelvic health goals. The assessment may include an internal examination, with your consent, of course, depending on your condition.
Triangle Physiotherapy and our pelvic health team are passionate about supporting our transgender and intersex community.
What should I bring to my appointment? What should I wear?
Make sure you have filled out the Health Questionnaire sent to you by our booking team. Bring any physician or specialist referrals to test results you may have. Please wear comfortable clothing, there are no specific requirements.
How many sessions will I need?
After your assessment, your physiotherapist will prepare a treatment plan for you and be able to indicate how many appointments you may need to achieve your pelvic health goals.
Can I attend my appointment if I have my period?
Your pelvic health physiotherapist can treat you while you have your period, as long as you are comfortable with it.
How do I book an appointment to see a pelvic health physiotherapist at Triangle Physiotherapy?
Triangle Physiotherapy has pelvic health physiotherapists at the following locations:
- Etobicoke Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga, Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
- North York Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West, Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay, Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is essential for managing pelvic health issues such as incontinence, pelvic pain, and postpartum recovery. If you are seeking expert physiotherapy services to improve your pelvic health, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations offer specialized care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal pelvic health and well-being.
What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a set of muscles that spread across the bottom of the pelvic cavity like a hammock. The pelvic floor has three openings that run through it, the urethra, the vagina, and the rectum. The functions of the pelvic floor include:
- Supporting the pelvic organs, specifically the uterus, the bladder, and the rectum
- To help provide sphincter control for the bladder and bowel
- Withstanding increases in pressure that occur in the abdomen such as coughing, sneezing, laughing, straining, and lifting
- To enhance the sexual response
What causes pelvic floor dysfunction?
The pelvic floor becomes dysfunctional in many women when there is an imbalance in the joints, muscles, and connective tissue integrity.
- Weak pelvic floor muscles: contributing to stress incontinence, urge incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
- Tight pelvic floor muscles: contributing to Urinary and Fecal Urgency, Urge Incontinence, Chronic Pelvic Pain, Dyspareunia, Vaginismus, Vulvodynia, Pudendal Neuralgia, Interstitial Cystitis and Chronic Prostatits.
One of the most commonly seen conditions by pelvic physiotherapists is stress incontinence in women.
What is Stress Urinary Incontinence?
Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary release of urine during laughter, coughing, lifting of objects or any movement that increases pressure on your bladder. When the bladder is full, the muscles in the wall of your bladder contract forcing urine through the urethra and out of your body. Sphincter muscles and pelvic floor muscles keep the urethra closed to avoid leakage of urine. These muscles relax at the same time the bladder contracts in order to allow urine to exit your body.
Causes of stress incontinence:
Hormonal changes:
During the week before your menstrual cycle, estrogen levels fall, causing symptoms of stress urinary incontinence to worsen. Additionally, as a woman goes through menopause, estrogen levels also fall causing the pelvic floor muscles to weaken.
Pregnancy:
If you are pregnant, you may experience stress urinary incontinence due to hormonal changes and the enlarging size of the uterus. During pregnancy, estrogen levels are lower, leading to less muscular strength in the sphincter and pelvic floor muscles. Additionally, as the fetus grows extra weight is placed on your bladder.
Childbirth:
Vaginal delivery can damage your pelvic floor muscles making urine leakage more likely. The supporting tissues of your bladder can also be damaged during vaginal delivery causing a cystocele, or prolapse of your bladder, symptoms of which include urinary incontinence. You may not know you have suffered damage to your pelvic floor until after you have gone through menopause, when the pelvic floor muscles are further weakened due to a fall in estrogen levels.
Hysterectomy and other surgery:
The bladder and uterus are very close together and have common supporting ligaments and muscles. Surgery to, or removal of your uterus as in a hysterectomy, risks damage to the supporting structures of your bladder. If these supporting structures are damaged, a cystocele is likely to occur. Symptoms of a cystocele include urinary incontinence.
Illnesses:
When you are ill and suffering from severe coughing, the pelvic floor muscles may fatigue and allow temporary stress incontinence due to an increase in abdominal pressure experienced while coughing.
Obesity:
Obesity can increase the abdominal pressure on the bladder leading to urinary incontinence.
Neurological damage:
Any neurological disorder such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or stroke can cause urinary incontinence by interfering with the nerve signals that control your bladder. Additionally, if the nerves that supply your bladder or pelvic floor muscles are damaged, urinary incontinence may also result
How is Stress Urinary Incontinence treated?
Treatments of stress urinary incontinence are individual based. The following should be considered:
Pelvic floor muscle strengthening:
Strengthening the supporting muscles of your bladder is very effective inhelping stress urinary incontinence.
Bladder training
Bladder training involves learning to delay the urge to urinate. You areinstructed to breathe deeply, relax, and distract yourself with another activitywhen you feel the urge. The initial goal is to delay urination by increments and eventually once every2 to 4 hours.
Pessary
Pessaries can help when a cystocele or prolapsed bladder is the cause forurinary incontinence. A pessary is a device of various shapes and sizes that isplaced in the vagina to support the bladder and keep it in place.
Surgery
For severe cystoceles, or bladder prolapses, surgery is needed in order tocorrect the position of the bladder and help with urinary incontinence.
Important Tips
- Avoid constipation. Repeated straining can have a very damaging effect on the pelvic floor muscles.
- It’s important for women to be active. Regular exercise and recreational sporting activities play a key role in keeping women fit and healthy well into old age
- Drink plenty of water
- Learn to tighten your pelvic floor muscles before you cough, sneeze or lift heavy items.
To get your pelvic health assessed, schedule a consultation with a pelvic floor physiotherapist at Triangle Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation!
How do I find a pelvic health physiotherapist near me?
We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
- Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
- Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
- Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
- Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
- Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
- Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills
Maintaining a strong pelvic floor is essential for overall health, especially in managing incontinence, pelvic pain, and postpartum recovery. For those seeking professional physiotherapy services to strengthen their pelvic floor, there are clinics in physiotherapy Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, and Liberty Village. These locations provide expert care and personalized treatment plans to help you achieve optimal pelvic health and well-being.