What is women’s health physiotherapy?

Women’s health physiotherapy is a specialised area focused on the musculoskeletal and pelvic health needs of women across all life stages — from pregnancy and post-natal recovery to perimenopause, menopause and beyond. It addresses conditions affecting the pelvic floor, the bony pelvis and surrounding structures, the spine and abdominal wall in the context of women’s specific anatomy and physiology.

Our women’s health physiotherapists are trained in internal and external pelvic floor assessment and use this as the basis for treatment decisions — not assumptions based on symptoms alone.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that span the base of the pelvis, supporting the bladder, bowel and uterus and playing a role in continence, sexual function and core stability. Problems arise from both weakness (underactivity) and overactivity — and treating one when the other is the issue makes symptoms worse, not better.

Pelvic floor assessment at our clinic identifies which pattern is present before any treatment begins. Conditions we commonly treat include:

  • Stress urinary incontinence — leaking with coughing, sneezing, laughing or exercise. Often caused by pelvic floor weakness or poor load management, not simply “weak muscles.”
  • Urge incontinence — a sudden, strong urge to urinate that cannot be deferred, often resulting in leaking. Usually involves bladder training alongside pelvic floor rehabilitation.
  • Pelvic organ prolapse — descent of the bladder, uterus or bowel into the vaginal canal. Physiotherapy can significantly improve symptoms and quality of life, particularly in mild to moderate presentations.
  • Pelvic pain — including dyspareunia (pain with intercourse), vaginismus and generalised pelvic pain, which often involve an overactive rather than weak pelvic floor.

Pre-natal physiotherapy

Pregnancy places significant and progressive load on the pelvic floor, pelvis and lumbar spine. Physiotherapy during pregnancy addresses:

  • Pelvic girdle pain (PGP) — pain around the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis or groin that is common in the second and third trimester. Load management, manual therapy and targeted exercise are highly effective.
  • Lower back pain in pregnancy — related to postural change, increased lordosis and ligament laxity under relaxin influence.
  • Pelvic floor preparation — optimising pelvic floor function for birth and reducing the risk of perineal injury with appropriate perineal massage guidance and pushing technique.
  • Abdominal separation (diastasis recti) — assessment and management of the linea alba throughout pregnancy.

Post-natal rehabilitation

The post-natal period is when many women first notice pelvic floor symptoms — but it is also when the right rehabilitation can prevent long-term problems. Post-natal physiotherapy at our clinic includes:

  • Six-week post-natal assessment of pelvic floor function, abdominal wall recovery and diastasis recti
  • Return-to-exercise guidance — including safe return to running, high-impact activity and strength training
  • Treatment of persistent lower back pain or pelvic girdle pain post-partum
  • Scar management for caesarean section or perineal tears

A private, comfortable appointment

We understand that women’s health physiotherapy can feel daunting, particularly for a first appointment. Our physiotherapists approach these consultations with sensitivity and explain everything that the assessment involves before it begins. You are in control throughout — nothing proceeds without your consent and understanding.

Appointments are in private rooms at our Smith Street clinic. Free underground parking is available directly beneath the building. More information about our clinic, practitioners and services is available at Absolute Health Chiropractic & Physiotherapy.