Bladder and Bowel Dysfunction

Problems with urinary or fecal continence or voiding may be addressed wholly or in part through pelvic floor physical therapy. The pelvic floor muscles which sling across the bottom of our pelvis perform critical roles in helping to maintain continence, and allow for emptying when the time is right. A full assessment of the function of the pelvic floor will allow for a greater understanding of potential contributing factors in bladder and bowel dysfunction, and can therefore also be a key part of treatment.

Conditions treated include but are not limited to:

• Stress urinary incontinence

• Urge urinary incontinence

• Urinary frequency

• Fecal incontinence

• Constipation

Frequently Asked Questions

How much leakage is normal after having a baby?
Some urinary incontinence is considered normal within the first 6 months after having a baby, and the trend should be improvement of symptoms. Generally though, you can start working with a pelvic health PT much sooner than that – so why not be proactive?

What if leakage isn’t my issue, and I’m having a hard time actually going to the bathroom?
Pelvic floor muscles function on a full spectrum of activity, and healthy bladder and bowel habits rely on them being able to both relax and contract appropriately. Pelvic floor muscles can absolutely be involved in retention or “shyness” and working with a pelvic health specialist can be helpful in those cases as well.