At Triangle Physiotherapy, we are committed to creating an inclusive and equitable environment for our employees, clients, and the communities we serve. We believe in upholding and promoting principles of Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) as well as safeguarding human rights. This policy outlines our commitment to these values and serves as a guide for all stakeholders associated with our clinic.
1. Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI)
1.1. Equal Opportunities: We are committed to providing equal opportunities to all employees and clients, irrespective of their race, color, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, or any other protected characteristic.
1.2. Anti-Discrimination: Discrimination, harassment, or victimization of any kind will not be tolerated within our clinic. We actively promote a working environment that is free from any form of discrimination.
1.3. Accessibility: We strive to ensure that our clinic facilities, services, and information are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals to participate fully and equally in our programs and services.
1.4. Inclusive Culture: We foster an inclusive culture that values and respects individual differences. We encourage open dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect among our employees, clients, and partners.
1.5. Training and Education: We will provide regular training and educational opportunities to our employees to enhance their understanding of diversity, inclusion, and unconscious bias. This will enable them to create an inclusive environment and deliver culturally competent care to our diverse client base.
2. Human Rights
2.1. Human Rights Compliance: We are committed to upholding and promoting human rights as defined by international conventions and local laws. We will not engage in any activities that violate human rights or support organizations or entities that do not align with our human rights principles.
2.2. Privacy and Confidentiality: We respect and protect the privacy and confidentiality of our clients’ personal information in accordance with applicable privacy laws and regulations.
2.3. Ethical Practices: We adhere to ethical business practices and will not engage in any form of exploitation, forced labor, child labor, or any activity that violates basic human rights.
2.4. Reporting Mechanisms: We encourage employees, clients, and other stakeholders to report any concerns related to equality, diversity, inclusion, or human rights violations. We will establish confidential reporting mechanisms and ensure that appropriate actions are taken to address reported issues.
2.5. Continuous Improvement: We are committed to continuously improving our policies, practices, and procedures to ensure that we remain aligned with evolving societal norms, best practices, and legal requirements related to EDI and human rights.
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, clients, visitors, and anyone associated with Triangle Physiotherapy. Violation of this policy may result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or termination of client relationship.
We believe that by actively promoting equality, diversity, inclusion, and human rights, we can create a positive and supportive environment that benefits everyone involved with our clinic.
Triangle Physiotherapy remains committed to reviewing and updating this policy periodically to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
A pessary is a medical device designed to be inserted into the vagina to provide support for pelvic organs or to treat certain gynecological conditions. It is typically made of silicone or plastic and comes in various shapes and sizes to accommodate different needs.
What is the purpose of a pessary?
The purpose of a pessary is to support the pelvic organs and alleviate symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence. It helps to hold the organs in place and improve their function.
Who might need a pessary?
Doctors commonly recommend pessaries for women who experience pelvic organ prolapse, which happens when the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend from their normal positions. Pessaries can also manage stress urinary incontinence, a condition where involuntary leakage of urine occurs during activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as coughing or lifting.
How is a pessary inserted?
During a pelvic examination, a healthcare provider usually inserts the pessary. The healthcare provider folds the pessary and inserts it into the vagina. Once inside, the pessary opens up and provides support to the pelvic organs. The specific method of insertion may vary depending on the type of pessary being used.
How many appointments will I need?
Typically, you will require a minimum of three appointments to ensure that your pessary is doing what it needs to.
Do I need a doctor’s note to get fitted for a pessary?
No, you don’t need a doctor’s note to see the pelvic health physiotherapist, however, if your insurance requires one for reimbursement then you need to get one. Also if the therapist decides after assessing you, that you will benefit from a pessary then you will be provided with a clearance letter that will need to be signed by your family dr or your ob-gyn prior to fitting.
Are pessary fitting appointments covered by insurance?
Yes, the services are covered under physiotherapy coverage.
Does Triangle Physiotherapy do pessary fittings?
This service is currently provided at 4 of our locations in Toronto and Mississauga.
a. King West
c. North York
d. Mississauga
Who provides pessary fittings at Triangle Physiotherapy?
Some of our pelvic health physiotherapists at our Toronto Pessary Clinics and Mississauga Pessary Clinic are trained to do pessary fittings and insertions. Schedule an appointment to see if a pessary can help you.
How does the process work?
When you come in for your initial assessment, the therapist will do a pelvic assessment as well as take the measurement for the pessary. At your 2nd appointment, you will be fitted with a pessary device. You will have a follow-up appointment after 2-3 weeks to check if everything is ok and that there is no redness or infection. The pelvic physiotherapists will also explain to you how to take it out and clean it.
How can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist who does pessary fittings near me?
We have 4 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists that do pessary fittings to help you.
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
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
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 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 organ prolapse (POP) is a condition in which there is a descent of the pelvic organs into or through the vaginal or anal canal. This can present as:
- a visible bulge in the above openings,
- pressure felt in the pelvic area,
- incomplete emptying of bladder or bowels,
- discomfort during intercourse.
The main reason for prolapse is increased pressure on the pelvic floor due to:
– Chronic constipation
– Bearing children
– Pelvic floor weakness due to hormonal imbalance
Conservative non-surgical management is the first line of treatment for POP.
Your pelvic floor physiotherapist will assess the severity of your symptoms, the strength of your pelvic floor and your ability to manage pressure and stresses to your pelvic floor. Treatment would include strengthening exercises for the core and pelvic floor muscles and coordination techniques for all the inner unit muscles.
The types of pelvic organ prolapse are:
- Anterior Wall Prolapse
- Posterior Wall Prolapse
- Rectal Prolapse
Depending on the grade and type of prolapse, you might be a candidate for a pessary fitting.
A pessary is a medical grade silicone device that is inserted into the vaginal canal in order to support the vaginal walls. If you are a candidate for a pessary, it must be fitted for you by a trained professional such as gynaecologists, nurses that have a certification in fittings or pelvic health physios that are specialized to do so.
We currently have 3 practitioners at Triangle Physiotherapy who are certified in pessary fittings.
Your pelvic floor deserves more than just kegels. Speak to a pelvic health physiotherapist today to get started!
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
Written by Roshni Ravi, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Have you ever experienced pain with sex? A burning sensation during or afterwards, a sharp pain or general discomfort? A lot of these symptoms point towards a common condition called dyspareunia. This is also known as pain with intercourse. It is a common condition postpartum, during menopause or even just due to general pelvic floor dysfunction.
But don’t worry, there are ways to alleviate the discomfort and enjoy a fulfilling sex life again! One of the most effective methods is through pelvic health physiotherapy.
Pelvic health physiotherapy involves working with a trained professional to strengthen and stretch the muscles in your pelvic floor, which can become weakened or tight due to a variety of factors. By doing so, you can improve your pelvic floor function and reduce pain during sex.
When it comes to sexual dysfunction, pelvic physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for women. Pelvic physiotherapy can help address issues such as pain during intercourse, difficulty achieving orgasm, or vaginismus (involuntary contraction of the vaginal muscles).
What does a treatment session entail?
During a pelvic physiotherapy session, you’ll typically undergo an initial evaluation where your therapist will assess your pelvic floor muscles and create a personalized treatment plan. The exercises and techniques used will vary depending on your specific needs and goals, but they may include:
- Pelvic floor relaxation exercises
- Deep breathing
- Yoga based therapy
- Functional strengthening such as squats
- Biofeedback and/or muscle stimulation
It’s important to note that pelvic physiotherapy isn’t a quick fix and may take several sessions to see results. However, with dedication and commitment, it can significantly improve your quality of life and sexual function. So if you’re experiencing dyspareunia, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your healthcare provider about pelvic physiotherapy and take the first step towards a happier, healthier you.
Book your consultation with a pelvic health physiotherapist today. We have pelvic health physiotherapists at all eight of our locations.
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
Written by Roshni Ravi, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Stress incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs with physical activity or exertion. This can be from coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise e.g. jumping. All of these actions can put pressure on the bladder thereby causing leaks. The pelvic floor is important in preventing this leaks and supporting the bladder.
Pelvic floor exercises such as a kegel are commonly recommended for leaks. However, a lot of time the pelvic floor is actually tight rather than weak. Reverse Kegels involve relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, allowing them to lengthen and release tension. This helps to prevent over-tightening and over-activity of the pelvic floor muscles, which can contribute to stress incontinence.
Hypertonic pelvic floor
Hypertonic pelvic floor refers to a condition where the pelvic floor muscles are in a state of excessive and persistent contraction. This can lead to a number of symptoms, including pelvic pain, urinary and fecal incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.
Hypertonic pelvic floor can be caused by a number of factors, including pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, chronic constipation, and chronic pelvic pain. It can also be a result of excessive or improper use of pelvic floor muscle exercises, such as Kegels.
Treatment for Hypertonic pelvic floor
Treatment for hypertonic pelvic floor typically involves a combination of physical therapy and relaxation techniques. Physical therapy may include manual therapy to release muscle tension, as well as exercises to stretch and relax the pelvic floor muscles. Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and biofeedback, can also be helpful in reducing muscle tension.
If you’re experiencing leaks, reach out to a pelvic floor therapist for an assessment or discovery call!
FAQ’s about Stress Incontinence
Q: What is stress incontinence?
A: Stress incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when pressure is placed on the bladder, such as during coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising, and causes involuntary urine leakage.
Q: What causes stress incontinence?
A: Stress incontinence is typically caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles and/or a weakened urethral sphincter, which can occur due to aging, pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, obesity, chronic coughing, or certain medical conditions.
Q: Who is at risk for developing stress incontinence?
A: Women are more likely to develop stress incontinence than men, especially those who have gone through pregnancy and childbirth, menopause, or pelvic surgery. Other risk factors include obesity, chronic coughing, and certain medical conditions that affect the bladder or nervous system.
Q: How is stress incontinence diagnosed?
A: Stress incontinence can be diagnosed through a physical exam, a urine test, and other tests such as a bladder diary or urodynamic testing.
Q: What are the treatment options for stress incontinence?
A: Treatment options for stress incontinence may include:
- pelvic floor exercises,
- behavioral therapies,
- medications,
- medical devices such as pessaries, and in some cases,
- surgery.
Q: Can stress incontinence be prevented?
A: While stress incontinence may not be completely preventable, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, doing regular pelvic floor exercises, and avoiding smoking and excessive caffeine consumption are some of these.
Q: Is stress incontinence a normal part of aging?
A: While stress incontinence is more common in older adults, it is not a normal part of aging and should not be ignored or accepted as an inevitable consequence of getting older. Treatment options are available, and seeking help from a healthcare provider is important.
Written by Roshni Ravi, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Constipation is a common gastrointestinal (GI) condition that causes difficulty with passing stool or reduces the frequency of having a bowel movement. It can be caused by
– dehydration
– diet e.g. not enough fibre
– sedentary lifestyle
– Ignoring the urge for a bowel movement due to pain.
– Pelvic organ prolapse (POP)
– Medications such as anti-inflammatories, iron supplements or anti depressants.
Medically, constipation is defined as having fewer than 3 bowel movements a week with hard stools.
Pelvic muscle dyssynergia (incoordination) can lead to constipation. During a typical bowel movement, the pelvic floor needs to relax in order to evacuate stool. When there is tightness in the pelvic floor muscles, it can be painful or uncomfortable to pass stool.
Treatment for constipation can include a number of lifestyle modifications such as increased fibre and water intake, and regular exercise. However, consulting with a pelvic physiotherapist can improve outcomes, by creating an exercise program specific to your pelvic floor dysfunction. The need for lengthening versus strengthening of the pelvic floor is determined through internal vaginal or rectal examination. Another option is seeing a naturopath for ways to adjust your diet accordingly. Quite often, both treatments go hand in hand.
Experiencing constipation or constipation like symptoms? Book a consultation with one of our pelvic physiotherapists today!