Many people are unfamiliar with what a Women’s Health Physiotherapist does. If you’re wondering the same, you’re not alone. Most are unaware that there is a significant difference between a general physiotherapist and a Women’s Health Physiotherapist.
If you already know what Women’s Health Physio do, it’s likely because you have given birth, experienced pelvic floor concerns, or received a referral from a healthcare provider.
Let’s break it down and explain why every woman should consider having a Women's Health Physiotherapist as part of their healthcare team.
What is a Women’s Health Physio?
A Women’s Health Physiotherapist, also known as a pelvic health or pelvic floor physiotherapist, is a specialised physiotherapist trained in assessing, diagnosing, and treating conditions affecting the pelvic floor muscles and related structures.
Women’s Health Physiotherapists’ role involves discussing topics that are often considered taboo, such as bladder and bowel habits, sexual health, and menstrual cycles. While these conversations are still not widely normalised, education is helping shift the dialogue.
Think about it—if you had back pain, you might tell a friend, get recommendations for treatment, or even visit a professional. But if you experienced pain during intercourse or leaked urine while exercising, would you feel as comfortable bringing it up?
Pelvic floor issues are as common as lower back pain, yet they often go unspoken. Unfortunately, many women suffer in silence, unaware that help is available.
Pelvic Health Statistics Every Woman Should Know
1 in 3 women experience urinary leakage.
1 in 3 women who have ever given birth will experience some degree of prolapse.
What Conditions Can Women’s Health Physiotherapists Treat?
Women’s Health Physiotherapy is a specialised field that focuses on assessing, diagnosing, and treating conditions related to the pelvic floor—the muscles that support the bladder, bowel, and uterus.
Our Women's Health Physiotherapist’s at Women’s Health Hub are specially trained to help with incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pain during intercourse, pregnancy-related discomfort and postpartum recovery.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse – This condition occurs when the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, or rectum, shift downward from their normal position and press against the vaginal wall. Women's Health Physiotherapists use targeted exercises and other treatment options such as a pessary to assist with strengthening and supporting the pelvic floor muscles, helping to alleviate symptoms and improve overall function.
Urinary, Flatus and Faecal Incontinence – This condition is common among women of all ages and involves the unintentional leakage of urine, flatus and faecal matter that may be triggered by activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercise. Women's Health Physiotherapists specialize in strengthening and improving control over the pelvic floor muscles, helping to reduce both the severity and frequency of incontinence.
Pregnancy-Related Issues – During pregnancy, the growing baby exerts significant pressure and stress on the woman's body - The weight on the pelvic floor is comparable to the weight of a 100kg man standing on a trampoline! This added strain can contribute to back pain, pelvic girdle pain, pelvic organ prolapse and incontinence. Women's Health Physiotherapists can provide valuable guidance on exercises, pelvic floor advice and exercise, posture, breathing techniques, and perineal massage to help support the body and prepare for childbirth.
Postpartum Recovery – Following childbirth, women may encounter concerns like incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles) and scar tissue concerns (perineum or c-section). Women's Health Physiotherapists offer treatment and education to support recovery, restore function, and improve overall well-being.
Pain During Intercourse – Discomfort or pain during intercourse is a common concern for many women and can stem from various causes. Women's Health Physiotherapists can assess the underlying issue and create a personalized treatment plan, which may involve pelvic floor muscle exercises, manual therapy, and guidance on sexual positions and techniques to improve comfort and well-being.
Other areas of focus include painful menstruation, menopause, exercise-related concerns, post-surgical recovery, and more.
By combining physiotherapy expertise with knowledge of exercise, movement, and rehabilitation (including Pilates and Exercise Physiology), we support women’s overall health and well-being.
When Should You See a Women’s Health Physio?
Do you leak when coughing or sneezing?
Do you feel heaviness or a dragging sensation in your lower abdomen?
Have you noticed a vaginal bulge?
Do you struggle to reach the toilet on time without leaking?
Do you wake up frequently at night to urinate?
Do you have difficulty or strain when trying to empty your bowels?
Do you experience pain during intercourse?
Have you given birth or are planning to conceive soon?
Are you currently pregnant?
Have you noticed changes in your body down there since menopause?
If you answered yes to any of these, a Women's Health Physiotherapist can help. We focus on restoring strength and function through a range of evidence-based techniques, including pelvic floor muscle exercises, bladder and bowel retraining, manual therapy, and education on lifestyle adjustments to support long-term well-being.
What to Expect at Your Women’s Health Physiotherapy Session
At Women’s Health Hub, we believe in providing care that is rooted in empathy, education, and empowerment. Whether you're experiencing pelvic floor concerns, postpartum recovery challenges, or incontinence, our expert female women’s health physiotherapists are here to guide you through every step of your journey.
Compassionate Conversation & Personalised Assessment
Your first session is all about understanding your unique story. We take the time to listen with empathy, discussing key aspects of your health, including:
bladder and bowel function
pelvic floor concerns (weakness, tightness, or pain)
sexual and obstetric history
postpartum recovery and core function
We understand that these topics are deeply personal, and our team provides a safe, supportive environment where you can share openly. The information you provide is essential in tailoring the most effective treatment for you.
Thorough Physical Assessment with Your Comfort in Mind
To accurately evaluate your condition, we may perform an internal vaginal examination (this is optional but provides invaluable information), which is one of the most effective ways to assess:
pelvic floor muscle tone and strength including:
superficial and deep muscle activation
sensitivity, pain points, and prolapse symptoms
Your comfort and dignity are always our priority, and we will thoroughly explain each step of the process. We may also use real-time diagnostic ultrasound for additional assessment.
Education & Personalised Treatment Plan
At Women’s Health Hub, education is key to empowerment. After your assessment, we ensure you fully understand:
Your diagnosis and how it affects your body
The evidence-based treatment options available
A step-by-step plan to regain strength, confidence, and control
Your personalised treatment plan may include:
Pelvic floor muscle training to restore function
Manual therapy to reduce pain and tension
Bladder and bowel retraining for improved control
Lifestyle and movement education to support long-term health
We ensure that you fully understand your diagnosis, treatment options, and how to integrate these strategies into your daily life for long-term results.
Why Every Woman Needs & Deserves a Pelvic Health Check-Up
Your pelvic health is a key part of your overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked until discomfort or symptoms appear.
Your body is constantly changing, and so are your needs. Whether you're navigating pregnancy, postpartum recovery, menopause, or simply want to feel stronger and more in control, a pelvic health check-up can provide clarity, support, and evidence-based care and solutions tailored to you.
Ultimately, our goal is to help women achieve optimal pelvic health, improve quality of life, and prevent future complications.
Book A Consultation
If you're experiencing any pelvic health concerns, consulting our Women's Health Physiotherapist could be a crucial step toward feeling stronger, healthier, and more in control of your body.
Book your initial consultation with us and follow us on social media for more information.
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