Pelvic Floor Issues, Prolapse – what is it and what you can do about it.

A weak pelvic floor is an area of our body that can cause major issues after childbirth and when we age. Urinary Incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse are two of these issues many women face. There is nothing worse than needing to ‘pee’ and there is no toilet around!

However, you don’t have to suffer in silence. I’m delighted today to introduce my guest, Alison Jeffrey, Director and Principal Physiotherapist of Chevron Island Physio to discuss this important women’s health issue today.

A Summary of our Conversation

In conversation, I asked Alison several questions that women have raised around issues with a weak pelvic floor, pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence.

Note: If you have symptoms or require more information please consult your doctor and women’s health professional.

Firstly, can you explain what the Pelvic Floor is?

• Extends from the pubic bone through the the tail bone.
• Men and Women both have pelvic floors.
• Helps to control bladder and bowel and for women to keep uterus inside
• Works for continence, pelvic stability as part of our core muscles
• Women don’t think about pelvic floor until it becomes problematic

Pelvic Floor and exercising – Can I exercise if I have pelvic floor issues?

• Exercise has so many benefits for prevention of chronic health conditions and mental health
• Depends on the condition of the pelvic floor as to what level of exercise is prescribed – very specific to the individual
• Baseline and starting exercises are based on the assessment of pelvic floor and position of internal organs
• Strength can improve with correct exercises
• A tight pelvic floor doesn’t necessarily mean good.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse – what is this and can it be rectified?

• Up to 50% of women can have a degree of prolapse and may not even know they have it.
• Movement of bladder, bowel or uterus (all three or one ) dropping down into the vaginal area
• Can prevent progression and improve symptoms prior to taking the route of a surgical procedure
• Women’s Healthy Physiotherapists can do an initial assessment

How can I improve my Pelvic Floor Strength?

• Correct assessment and diagnosis is essential to obtain appropriate treatment and program
• Everyone is unique

Pelvic Pain

• Even more of a taboo topic because it often means discussing sexual activity
• Can have a bit impact on relationships
• If treated and diagnosed correctly to find the cause you can then work towards a treatment plan

Finally, a question I ask all of my guests – What does being a Woman Living Well mean to you?

• Doing the things that you love with the people that you love
• Waking looking forward to your day feeling energised and smiling.

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Meet Alison

Alison Jeffrey, is Director and Principal Physiotherapist of Chevron Island Physio .

Alison and her team have  a  passion and focus on women’s health,  promoting and supporting optimal wellbeing at all stages of a woman’s life.

She has undergone extensive postgraduate training in the areas of pelvic floor rehabilitation for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, exercise during pregnancy and the post-natal period and the post menopausal period, and management of pregnancy-related pelvic pain, pelvic floor pain and pain with intercourse.

Alison believes in holistic care for her patients. She believes mindset, movement and nutrition play a huge role in healing and loves to work alongside other health professionals that are as passionate about supporting woman as she is.

Chevron Island Physio:  https://www.chevronislandphysio.com.au/

Book an appointment Mention Women Living Well After 50 and receive a 25% discount on your initial consultation.

Please note: Offer only applies to women living in the Brisbane/Gold Coast area.