Pelvic Floor Therapy Is Not Just Kegels

A little leak when you laugh, sneeze or jump. A heavy, pressure feeling that builds in your abdomen by the end of the day. Pain with intimacy. Running to the bathroom more than you used to. Discomfort that started after having kids and never fully went away.

These are some of the most common things women tell me, usually quietly and usually after years of assuming it was just part of getting older or having a family.

They are common. That does not make them normal, and it does not mean you have to live with them.

So why not just do Kegels?

Kegels are the one pelvic floor exercise most people have heard of, so it is natural to assume that is the fix. Sometimes strengthening is exactly what is needed. But more often than not, it is the opposite of what you need.

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that has to do two jobs: contract when you need support, and relax when you need to let go. Some people have muscles that are weak. Many others have muscles that are too tight and never fully relax. For that second group, doing more Kegels can make symptoms worse.

Your pelvic floor also does not work alone. It works together with your breathing, your deep core muscles, your hips, and your posture. If one part of that system is not doing its job, the pelvic floor often picks up the slack, and symptoms show up there.

That is why pelvic floor therapy has to be specific to you.

What therapy with me looks like

We talk first. Your first visit starts with a conversation about your symptoms, your history, your pregnancies if you have had them, and what you want to get back to doing.

We look at the whole system. I discuss how the whole system, your hips, core, pelvic floor, breathing and more, works together and could be causing your symptoms, as well as what we can do together to improve everything. Remember, nothing happens without your comfort and consent.

You get a plan built for your body. That may include hands-on treatment, breathing and relaxation work, targeted strengthening, and simple changes to how you move through your day. You will know what we are working on and why.

Who pelvic floor therapy can help

• Leaking with coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise
• Urgency or needing to go more often
• Pelvic pressure or heaviness
• Pain with intimacy
• Postpartum recovery, whether your baby is 6 weeks or 16 years old
• Constipation or any other bowel dysfunction
• Pelvic, low back, or hip pain
• Core weakness or separation after pregnancy

Not sure if it is right for you?

Start with a FREE 15-minute consultation. We will talk through what you are dealing with and whether pelvic floor therapy is a good fit, with no pressure to book. Call or text 630.999.8665 or schedule online.

Dr. Brittany

About CMR Health Group

CMR Health Group is your trusted healthcare center for holistic health and personalized care.

Want to see for yourself? Book an appointment today.