Visit Us
2249 Carling Ave. Suite 201
Call Us
613-709-8001
Email Us
info@theratouchphysio.com
Opening Hours
Mon - Fri: 9 AM - 6:30 PM | Sat: 10 AM - 5 PM

Tag: pelvic health

TheraTouch PhysiotherapyBLOGpelvic health
By TheraTouch Physiotherapy December 4, 2023 0 Comments orthopedic Physiotherapy , , , , , ,

Menopause Intimacy Pain: Role of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

Menopause is a significant life stage for women, accompanied by a range of physical and emotional changes. One common and distressing issue that many women face during this time is painful sex, known as dyspareunia. However, there is a solution that offers hope and relief: Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy. In this blog post, we will explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help women manage and overcome painful sex during menopause.

Understanding Painful Sex During Menopause

Painful sex during menopause can be attributed to a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, vaginal dryness, and psychological influences. These changes often result in discomfort during sexual intercourse, making it a challenging and distressing experience for women.

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues of the pelvic region. Here’s how it can help alleviate painful sex during menopause:

Muscle Rehabilitation:

During menopause, the decrease in estrogen levels can weaken the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles play a vital role in supporting pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. When these muscles become weakened and thinned, they can contribute to discomfort or pain during sexual activity. Pelvic floor physiotherapy involves targeted exercises and techniques designed to strengthen and tone these muscles. By improving muscle function and support, this therapy can help reduce the discomfort experienced during sex.

Vaginal Tissue Health:

Reduced estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, causing the vaginal lining to become less lubricated and more prone to irritation during intercourse. Pelvic floor physiotherapists can offer manual therapy treatments and provide guidance on exercises and techniques to enhance blood flow to the vaginal tissues. These methods can help combat vaginal dryness and irritation, making sexual activity more comfortable and enjoyable.

Education and Relaxation Techniques:

A crucial aspect of pelvic floor physiotherapy is educating women about their pelvic anatomy and function. Understanding how the pelvic floor muscles work and their role in sexual function can reduce anxiety and fear associated with painful sex. Additionally, pelvic floor physiotherapists can offer relaxation techniques to help women relax and reduce tension during sexual activity, thereby minimizing pain and discomfort.

Personalized Treatment Plans:

Pelvic floor physiotherapists create individualized treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each woman. This ensures that the therapy addresses the unique factors contributing to painful sex. The treatment plan may include a combination of exercises, manual techniques, and education to provide a comprehensive approach to improving sexual comfort.

Painful sex during menopause can be a challenging issue, but there is hope and we at TheraTouch Physiotherapy are available to help! Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy offers a holistic approach to addressing the physical factors related to muscle weakness, tightness and vaginal dryness. It also provides education and relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety and improve sexual function. If you’re experiencing painful sex during menopause, consider consulting a pelvic floor physiotherapist to explore how this specialized therapy can benefit you and improve your overall well-being. Remember, you don’t have to endure painful sex in silence, there are solutions that can provide relief and enhance your quality of life.

TheraTouch Physiotherapy on Carling Ave, Ottawa offers General, Sports & Pelvic Health Physiotherapy and can help with intimacy during menopause

By TheraTouch Physio June 14, 2023 0 Comments orthopedic Physiotherapy, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , , , , , , , , , ,

Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Pelvic organ prolapse
TheraTouch Physiotherapy prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when one or more of the pelvic organs, such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum, descend and bulge into the vaginal wall. This condition is commonly caused by weakened or damaged pelvic floor muscles and ligaments that support the organs. Here are some causes, symptoms, and treatments of pelvic organ prolapse:

Causes of Pelvic organ prolapse:

  1. Pregnancy and childbirth: The process of pregnancy and vaginal delivery can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues, leading to prolapse.
  2. Aging: As women age, the pelvic floor muscles naturally weaken, making them more susceptible to prolapse.
  3. Hormonal changes: Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can contribute to the weakening of pelvic floor muscles.
  4. Chronic constipation: Straining during bowel movements over a long period can weaken the pelvic floor and contribute to prolapse.
  5. Obesity: Excess weight can put increased pressure on the pelvic organs, leading to prolapse.
  6. Chronic coughing: Conditions like chronic bronchitis or asthma that cause persistent coughing can strain the pelvic floor muscles and contribute to prolapse.

Symptoms of Pelvic organ prolapse:

  1. Sensation of a bulge or pressure in the vagina.
  2. Feeling of heaviness or pulling in the pelvis.
  3. Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse.
  4. Backache or lower abdominal pain.
  5. Urinary problems like frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence.
  6. Bowel movement difficulties or a sensation of incomplete emptying.
  7. Vaginal bleeding or discharge.

Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse:

  1. Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: Pelvic floor exercises such as Kegel exercises can help strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve symptoms.
  2. Lifestyle modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding heavy lifting, and treating constipation or chronic coughing can reduce the risk of prolapse.
  3. Vaginal pessary: A removable device inserted into the vagina to provide support for the prolapsed organs.
  4. Hormone replacement therapy: Estrogen therapy may help improve the strength and elasticity of the pelvic tissues.
  5. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to repair the prolapse and provide support to the pelvic organs. There are different surgical techniques available depending on the specific prolapse and individual factors.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy is an effective solution for alleviating Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms, addressing persistent conditions, and expediting the healing process. Your licensed physiotherapists evaluate your specific condition and provide personalized recommendations or therapies to help you manage your Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms effectively

Table of Contents:

  1. Introduction
  2. Causes of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

2.1 Pregnancy and Childbirth

2.2 Aging

2.3 Hormonal Changes

2.4 Chronic Constipation

2.5 Obesity

2.6 Chronic Coughing

  • Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse

3.1 Sensation of a Bulge or Pressure

3.2 Feeling of Heaviness or Pulling

3.3 Pain or Discomfort During Intercourse

3.4 Backache or Lower Abdominal Pain

3.5 Urinary Problems

3.6 Bowel Movement Difficulties

3.7 Vaginal Bleeding or Discharge

  • Treatments for Pelvic Organ Prolapse

4.1 Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy

4.2 Lifestyle Modifications

4.3 Vaginal Pessary

4.4 Hormone Replacement Therapy

4.5 Surgery

  • Conclusion
By TheraTouch Physio June 12, 2023 0 Comments Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Is Your Pelvic Floor Weak? Learn the Signs Now!

Weak pelvic floor muscles can affect your bladder, bowel, sexual health, and overall core stability. If you’re experiencing symptoms like leakage, pelvic pressure, or pain, you’re not alone — and support is available.
At TheraTouch Physiotherapy in Ottawa, our pelvic floor physiotherapists help you assess, diagnose, and strengthen your pelvic floor safely and effectively.

weak pelvic floor

What Is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that act like a supportive hammock for your bladder, uterus/prostate, and rectum. These muscles control urination, bowel movements, sexual function, and core stability.
When the pelvic floor becomes weak, it can lead to symptoms that affect your daily comfort and quality of life.

Common Causes of Pelvic Floor Weakness

How Do You Know If Your Pelvic Floor Is Weak?

Here are the most common signs, explained clearly so you can identify what’s normal — and what’s not.

Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise is one of the clearest signs of pelvic floor weakness. This is known as stress urinary incontinence.

Feeling the urge to urinate often — even shortly after going — may indicate reduced pelvic support for the bladder.

Difficulty controlling gas or stool is linked to weakened pelvic floor muscles and reduced sphincter support.

A sensation of heaviness, pressure, or something “falling out” of the vagina or rectum is a major red flag.

Chronic pelvic pain, discomfort during sitting, or pressure in the lower abdomen can be caused by underactive pelvic floor muscles.

Weak pelvic floor muscles can reduce sensation, make intercourse uncomfortable, or contribute to low sexual satisfaction in both women and men.

Because the pelvic floor is part of your core, weakness often causes compensations that lead to back or hip pain.

Struggling to activate your core during workouts or daily activities is a common sign of pelvic instability and pelvic floor dysfunction.

How Is Pelvic Floor Weakness Diagnosed?

A proper assessment is essential. At TheraTouch Physiotherapy, your pelvic floor physiotherapist will evaluate your symptoms, discuss your medical history, and perform a gentle examination.
This ensures an accurate diagnosis and a personalized plan for strengthening your pelvic floor.

Book a Pelvic Floor Assessment

How to Improve a Weak Pelvic Floor

Weak pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened with the right approach. Your physiotherapist may recommend:

  • Pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) taught correctly

  • Deep core strengthening

  • Lifestyle modifications such as posture, breathwork, and lifting techniques

  • Managing constipation to prevent strain

  • Treating chronic cough

  • Education around bladder and bowel habits


Learn more about Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy →

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Men can also develop pelvic floor weakness, leading to pelvic pain, leakage, or sexual dysfunction.

Mild cases may improve with exercises, but guided pelvic floor physiotherapy leads to more effective and lasting results.

 

No — treatment is gentle, evidence-based, and always tailored to your comfort.

Ready to Strengthen Your Pelvic Floor?

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, early treatment can prevent the issue from worsening. Our pelvic floor physiotherapists in Ottawa provide private, one-on-one assessments and personalized treatment plans.

 

Book Your Appointment
By TheraTouch Physio June 6, 2023 0 Comments orthopedic Physiotherapy, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Supports Pregnancy and Postpartum Health 

Pregnancy and Postpartum pelvic physiotherapy

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are transformative experiences that bring joy and challenges to women’s lives. During this time, the pelvic floor muscles undergo significant changes and may require special attention and care. Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers invaluable support to empower women throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey. In this blog post, we will explore how pelvic floor physiotherapy can help you feel empowered, confident, and in control during this transformative phase of your life. 

  1. Preparing for Pregnancy: Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be beneficial even before conception. By addressing any existing pelvic floor issues or imbalances, such as weak muscles or pelvic pain, you can start your pregnancy journey on a healthier foundation. A pelvic floor assessment and targeted exercises can help strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, optimize their function, and promote better bladder control. 
  2. Supporting Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor experiences increased strain due to the growing baby, hormonal changes, and the weight of the uterus. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help manage common pregnancy-related issues such as back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and incontinence. A physiotherapist can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, promote better posture, and enhance overall pelvic stability, empowering you to navigate the physical demands of pregnancy with greater comfort and confidence. 
  3. Preparing for Labor and Delivery: Pelvic floor physiotherapy plays a vital role in preparing for labor and delivery. Through specialized exercises and techniques, you can learn to relax and control your pelvic floor muscles, facilitating the birthing process. A physiotherapist can guide you in practicing perineal massage and breathing techniques to reduce the risk of perineal tears and promote more efficient labor. 
  4. Postpartum Recovery: After giving birth, your body undergoes a period of healing and adjustment. Pelvic floor physiotherapy is instrumental in supporting your postpartum recovery. A thorough assessment can identify any pelvic floor dysfunctions, such as weakened muscles or pelvic organ prolapse. With personalized exercises and techniques, you can regain strength, restore pelvic floor function, and address any issues like urinary incontinence, back pain or pain during intercourse. By nurturing your pelvic floor health, you can enhance your overall well-being and regain confidence in your body. 
  5. Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being: Pelvic floor physiotherapy also acknowledges the emotional and psychological aspects of pregnancy and postpartum. Your physiotherapist can provide guidance and support, addressing any concerns or anxieties you may have regarding your pelvic floor health. By fostering an open and supportive environment, pelvic floor physiotherapy empowers you to take an active role in your well-being and encourages a positive mindset throughout your journey. 

In conclusion, Pelvic floor physiotherapy is an invaluable resource for women during pregnancy and postpartum. Promoting physical strength, providing valuable support, and addressing emotional well-being, empowers you to embrace this transformative phase of life with confidence and resilience. If you are pregnant or have recently given birth, consider seeking the guidance of a qualified pelvic floor physiotherapist who can tailor a program to meet your unique needs. Embrace the power of pelvic floor physiotherapy and unlock your potential to thrive during this remarkable time. 

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Preparing for Pregnancy
  3. Supporting Pregnancy
  4. Preparing for Labor and Delivery
  5. Postpartum Recovery
  6. Addressing Mental and Emotional Well-being
  7. Conclusion
  8. Introduction
By TheraTouch Physio May 30, 2023 0 Comments orthopedic Physiotherapy, Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy , , , , , , , ,

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: An Effective Solution for Incontinence

Pelvic floor physiotherapy treatment for incontinence in Ottawa

Introduction

Incontinence is a common condition that affects people of all ages, yet many are hesitant to discuss it. It involves the unintentional leakage of urine or stool and may occur as stress incontinence, urge incontinence, overflow incontinence, or mixed types.

While incontinence can feel frustrating and limiting, it is highly treatable. One of the most effective, non-invasive solutions is pelvic floor physiotherapy. This specialized therapy strengthens and retrains the muscles responsible for bladder and bowel control, helping individuals regain confidence and return to their daily routines without fear of leakage.

Understanding Incontinence

Incontinence can develop for many reasons, such as:

  • Weak pelvic floor muscles

  • Pregnancy and childbirth

  • Menopause or hormonal shifts

  • Prostate conditions or pelvic surgery

  • Aging

  • Chronic constipation

  • Medication effects

Regardless of its cause, incontinence often disrupts daily life. People may avoid physical activities, social events, or long outings due to fear of leakage. Over time, this can impact confidence, comfort, and emotional well-being.

While incontinence is often associated with women, men can also experience leakage due to prostate changes, surgery, or weakened pelvic muscles.

The good news: most types of incontinence improve significantly with the right treatment. Our clinic also provides specialized care through our men’s pelvic health physiotherapy in Ottawa program, designed to address male-specific pelvic floor concerns.

What Is Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy?

Pelvic floor physiotherapy focuses on the pelvic floor—the group of muscles that support the bladder, uterus or prostate, and rectum. These muscles also control urination, bowel movements, and sexual function.

When these muscles weaken, tighten, or lose coordination, leakage can occur. Pelvic floor physiotherapy strengthens, relaxes, and retrains these muscles, helping restore normal bladder control.

This treatment approach is:

  • Non-invasive

  • Drug-free

  • Supported by research

  • Effective for both men and women

Working with a pelvic health physiotherapist helps patients learn correct techniques and develop long-lasting improvements.
At TheraTouch Physiotherapy, we provide pelvic floor physiotherapy in Ottawa to help patients regain bladder control with personalized treatment plans.

The Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Process

Initial Assessment

Your treatment begins with a detailed assessment. The physiotherapist reviews your symptoms, medical history, and pelvic floor muscle function. This helps identify the exact cause of your incontinence.

Personalized Treatment Plan

Your physiotherapist then creates a customized treatment plan using techniques such as:

  • Targeted pelvic floor strengthening

  • Relaxation and breathing training

  • Manual therapy

  • Biofeedback

  • Core exercises

  • Bladder training

  • Posture and lifestyle adjustments

You receive one-on-one guidance, regular progress checks, and ongoing support.

Results and Effectiveness

Pelvic floor physiotherapy has strong scientific support. Research shows that treatment can lead to:

  • Fewer leakage episodes

  • Stronger pelvic floor muscles

  • Better bladder control

  • Improved confidence and quality of life

Many individuals notice improvements within a few weeks, with continued progress over 2–3 months.

Tips for Choosing a Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist

For the best experience, look for a physiotherapist who:

  • Specializes in pelvic floor rehabilitation

  • Has advanced pelvic health certifications

  • Makes you feel comfortable discussing sensitive concerns

  • Has positive reviews or referrals

A qualified expert ensures safe, effective, and personalized care.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Pelvic Floor Health

Nutrition

Eat fiber-rich foods, stay hydrated, and avoid constipation—these habits support pelvic floor function.

Exercise

Strengthen your core and pelvic floor regularly while avoiding high-pressure exercises if advised by your physiotherapist.

Stress Management

Practices such as breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga help reduce unnecessary pelvic tension.

Overcoming the Stigma Surrounding Incontinence

Many people avoid seeking help due to embarrassment or misconceptions. Creating open conversations and promoting awareness helps break this stigma. Incontinence is a medical condition—and effective treatment exists.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides a safe, effective, and empowering solution for individuals experiencing incontinence. With personalized care and consistent practice, you can regain control, restore confidence, and return to activities you enjoy.

Taking the first step toward treatment can make a life-changing difference.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of incontinence, taking the first step toward treatment can make a significant difference. You can easily schedule your initial assessment through our online booking page and begin your path toward improved pelvic health.

Most people notice changes within a few weeks, with significant improvements around 8–12 weeks.

Yes. It is one of the safest and most recommended approaches for postpartum incontinence.

Absolutely. It helps men with prostate-related leakage, post-surgery symptoms, and pelvic muscle weakness.

Side effects are rare. Some may experience mild muscle soreness initially, which normally fades with practice.