Blog

Male Pelvic Pain: Understanding the Many Faces of Discomfort Pelvic pain in men is a complex issue involving various muscles, nerves, organs, and psychological factors. Since the pelvic region houses key structures such as the bladder, prostate, urethra, bowel, and the pelvic floor muscles, pain may present differently depending on the underlying cause. Recognising the specific types of pelvic pain and related symptoms can help men seek appropriate care early and improve outcomes. Common Types and Examples of Male Pelvic Pain Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) Pain Types: Dull aching in the lower abdomen, sharp stabbing pain in the perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus), burning during urination, and discomfort after ejaculation. Additional Symptoms: Urinary frequency and urgency, weak or interrupted urine stream, and sometimes flu-like symptoms in bacterial prostatitis. CPPS, a non-bacterial form, often features muscle tightness and nerve irritation causing persistent discomfort without infection. Pelvic Floor Muscle Tension and Spasms Pain Types: Intermittent or constant burning sensation deep in the pelvis, a "stuck" feeling during urination, testicular or penile pain not explained by infection. Often worsened by sitting for long periods, sexual activity, or stress. May also cause referred pain to the lower back, hips, or thighs. Pudendal Neuralgia (Nerve Entrapment) Pain Types: Sharp, burning, or electric shock-like pain primarily localised to the perineum and genital area. Pain often worsens when sitting on hard surfaces and improves when standing or lying down. May include numbness, tingling, or altered sensation around the genitals and anus. Urethral Pain Syndrome and Urethritis (Non-infective) Pain Types: Burning or raw sensation at the urethral opening, pain with urination, or persistent pelvic discomfort. This can happen without bacterial infection and is sometimes related to pelvic floor dysfunction or inflammation. Testicular Pain and Epididymitis Pain Types: Sharp or aching pain localised to one or both testicles, sometimes radiating to the groin or lower abdomen. May be associated with swelling, tenderness, or warmth. Causes include infection, trauma, or referred pain from pelvic floor muscles. Bladder Pain Syndrome / Interstitial Cystitis Pain Types: Persistent pressure, discomfort, or burning in the bladder and perineal region. Symptoms often worsen with bladder filling and improve after urination. May be accompanied by urinary urgency and frequency. Hernia-Related Pelvic Pain Pain Types: Dull aching or sharp pain in the lower abdomen, groin, or pelvic area, especially when coughing, lifting, or standing. Often associated with a noticeable bulge or lump in the groin. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Gastrointestinal Pain Pain Types: Cramping, bloating, and lower abdominal discomfort that can refer to pelvic areas. May be associated with bowel changes such as diarrhea or constipation. Bowel problems often coexist with pelvic floor dysfunction, complicating pain presentation. Musculoskeletal Pelvic Pain Pain Types: Aching or sharp pain stemming from muscles, ligaments, or joints of the pelvis and lower back. Causes include poor posture, pelvic instability, trauma, or overuse injuries. Pain may radiate into the groin, perineum, or thighs and can worsen with sitting, standing, or movement. Sexual Dysfunction-Related Pelvic Pain Pain Types: Pain during or after ejaculation, penile or perineal burning, and pain associated with erectile dysfunction. Often linked with pelvic floor muscle tension or nerve irritation. When to Seek Help Men experiencing any of the following should consult a pelvic health physiotherapist or healthcare provider: Persistent or worsening pelvic, perineal, testicular, or genital pain Pain worsened by urination, ejaculation, sexual activity, bowel movements, or sitting Difficulty starting or maintaining urine flow, weak or split stream Urinary urgency, frequency, dribbling, or incontinence Numbness, tingling, or unusual sensations in the pelvic or genital area Visible lumps, swelling, or signs of infection (fever, chills, burning urination) How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help Pelvic floor physiotherapists specialize in diagnosing and treating pelvic pain related to muscle dysfunction, nerve entrapment, and biomechanical issues. They use techniques such as: Manual therapy to release muscle tension and trigger points Tailored exercises to strengthen or relax pelvic muscles Education on bladder, bowel, and posture habits Neuromodulation techniques like TENS or biofeedback Collaborative care with urologists, gastroenterologists, and pain specialists Early assessment and intervention can greatly improve pain relief, bladder and sexual function, and quality of life. Expert Tips for Managing Pelvic Pain at Home Maintain regular bowel habits to prevent constipation and straining Practice relaxation techniques and mindfulness to reduce pelvic muscle tension Avoid prolonged sitting or pressure on the perineum; use cushions and take breaks Stay hydrated and avoid bladder irritants like caffeine and alcohol Use warm baths or heat packs to relax muscles and improve circulation Engage in gentle stretching and low-impact exercise as advised by your physiotherapist At Pelvic Health Melbourne, all our physiotherapists are trained to help manage all types of pelvic pain men encounter. You don’t have to live with pelvic pain—help is available.

Varicosities During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know Pregnancy is an exciting time, but it also brings a number of changes to the body. One of the common issues many women experience is varicosities — swollen, twisted veins that develop just under the skin. While they can be uncomfortable, they are generally harmless and can often be managed with simple strategies. In this blog, we’ll break down what varicosities are, why they happen during pregnancy, the signs to look for, and what you can do to relieve symptoms. What Are Varicosities? Varicosities are veins that become enlarged and visible under the skin. They most often occur in the legs, but pregnancy can also lead to vulvar varicosities and rectal varicosities (commonly known as hemorrhoids). These veins can appear blue or purple and may bulge above the surface of the skin. Some women experience discomfort, while others may simply notice the cosmetic changes. Why Do They Happen in Pregnancy? Several factors during pregnancy contribute to the development of varicosities: Increased blood volume: During pregnancy, your body produces more blood to support your growing baby. This extra volume puts added pressure on your veins. Hormonal changes: The hormone progesterone relaxes the walls of your veins, making them more likely to swell. Pressure from the uterus: As your uterus grows, it presses on the pelvic veins, slowing circulation and increasing pressure in the lower body. Genetics: If your family members experienced varicose veins, you may be more likely to develop them as well. Common Types of Varicosities in Pregnancy Leg varicose veins – swollen, bulging veins that often appear on the calves or thighs. Vulvar varicosities – swelling and visible veins in the vulvar area, which can cause heaviness or discomfort. Hemorrhoids – varicosities in the rectal area, often made worse by constipation and straining. Signs and Symptoms Varicosities may present with: Blue or purple bulging veins Aching or heaviness in the legs or groin Itching, throbbing, or tenderness Swelling around the affected area Discomfort that worsens after standing or sitting for long periods Prevention and Relief Tips While varicosities can’t always be prevented, there are many ways to relieve discomfort and stop them from worsening: Move regularly: Avoid sitting or standing still for long stretches. Get up and walk around every hour. Elevate your legs : Resting with your legs propped up helps improve circulation and reduce swelling. Wear compression stockings: These provide support and assist blood flow back toward the heart. Stay active: Daily walks and gentle exercise promote circulation. Hydrate well: Adequate water intake helps prevent constipation, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids. Eat a high-fibre diet: Fibre-rich foods keep your bowels regular and prevent straining. When to Call Your Doctor Most varicosities are harmless, but it’s important to seek medical advice if you notice: Sudden pain or swelling in the leg Skin discoloration or ulcers around a vein Bleeding from a varicosity Signs of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis), such as warmth, redness, or severe pain in the calf The Good News The reassuring news is that most varicosities improve significantly after delivery as blood volume and hormonal levels return to normal. Conservative measures are usually very effective, and in most cases, varicosities don’t cause complications during pregnancy or labor. Final Thoughts Varicosities are a normal and common part of pregnancy for many women. While they can be uncomfortable, they are usually temporary and manageable with lifestyle strategies. If you’re experiencing varicosities, talk with your physiotherapist or healthcare provider. They can help guide you with safe management strategies to keep you comfortable and reduce symptoms throughout your pregnancy.

Supporting Transmasculine and Transfeminine Clients Through Bottom Surgery: The Role of Physiotherapy Bottom surgery is a powerful and deeply affirming step for many both transmasculine and transfeminine individuals. Whether someone is preparing for vaginoplasty, vulvoplasty or phalloplasty, the journey is not just surgical—it’s physical, emotional, and functional. Physiotherapy can play a key role in optimising outcomes and supporting a safe, confident return to daily life. At our clinic, we work closely with clients before and after gender-affirming surgeries to ensure their pelvic and overall health is considered throughout their surgical journey. Pre-Surgery Preparation: Laying the Foundation Before surgery, our physiotherapy sessions focus on building a strong foundation. This includes: Understanding Your Body’s Baseline We begin by gaining a thorough understanding of your current: Bladder and bowel function – Are there any concerns with urgency, leakage, constipation, or straining? Pelvic floor tone and coordination – We assess whether your muscles are overactive, weak, or uncoordinated, which can impact recovery. Intimate or sexual function – If relevant and comfortable for the client, we explore areas of sensitivity, pain, or tension that may influence post-op outcomes. These baseline assessments guide us in creating a tailored prehabilitation program that optimises your function and supports a smoother recovery. Optimising Pelvic Health Pelvic health plays a crucial role in: Managing urination and bowel habits post-surgery Supporting circulation and tissue healing Reducing pelvic pain or tightness Preparing muscles for dilation (if applicable) We also look at core strength, breathing, posture , and general mobility —especially important for improving blood flow, wound healing, and reducing post-op complications. Post-Surgery Recovery: Gentle, Guided Support After surgery, our work shifts to supporting your healing and helping you return to your life with comfort and confidence. Wound Care & Scar Management We guide you through: Gentle scar tissue mobilisations (when appropriate) Promoting circulation to reduce swelling Supporting healing around graft or donor sites (e.g., arm, thigh) Dilation & Tissue Care For clients undergoing phalloplasty or metoidioplasty involving a urethral lengthening or neo-vaginal closure, pelvic physiotherapy may include: Education around dilation (where applicable) Pain management strategies Breathwork and relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension Returning to Life and Movement We support: Safe return to walking, lifting, cycling, gym or sports Managing fatigue and pacing during recovery Addressing any bladder, bowel or sexual function changes We also hold space for the emotional aspects of recovery. This is a major life transition, and our approach is compassionate, gender-affirming, and always client-led. We Are With You All the Way Our goal is to make your body feel more like home. Whether you're months away from surgery or already on the other side, we’re here to walk beside you with skilled hands, open minds, and affirming care. If you’re considering bottom surgery or in the recovery phase, get in touch to see how pelvic physiotherapy can support your goals and wellbeing.

Understanding Clitorodynia: Yes, It’s Real—And Yes, There’s Help Let’s talk about something that doesn’t get talked about enough: Clitorodynia . Clitorodynia is a condition involving chronic clitoral pain , and for many, it can feel isolating, confusing, and incredibly frustrating. If you’ve experienced burning, aching, or stabbing sensations around the clitoris—especially during everyday activities like sitting, walking, or even showering—you’re not alone. And more importantly, you're not imagining it. What Does Clitorodynia Feel Like? Clitorodynia can show up in a variety of ways, including: Burning or stinging sensations Sharp, stabbing pain Itching, irritation, or rawness Throbbing or tenderness Pain during movement, sexual activity, or even at rest Sometimes numbness or tingling that spreads to the pelvis For some, symptoms may come and go. For others, they’re persistent. Even things like urination or using certain soaps can trigger discomfort. If you ever experience severe pain along with symptoms like a fever or rapid heart rate, it’s important to seek urgent medical attention. The Good News: You Don’t Have to Suffer in Silence At Pelvic Health Melbourne , we understand how deeply clitorodynia can impact daily life—and how often it's misunderstood or dismissed. That’s why our approach is rooted in empathy, education, and evidence-based care. Our team works with you to tailor a plan that supports healing and comfort. Some of the tools and techniques we use include: Mindfulness and breathwork to soothe the nervous system TENS therapy (gentle electrical stimulation) for pain relief Gentle stretching and pelvic floor downtraining Internal muscle release techniques , when appropriate Personalised advice on skincare, pain triggers, and referrals for further support, including medications or imaging if needed You’re Not Alone—and You’re Not Making It Up If you’ve ever been told “it’s all in your head” or felt dismissed by healthcare providers, we want you to know: we see you . Clitorodynia is real, and help is available. You deserve answers. You deserve relief. And at Pelvic Health Melbourne, we’re here to help you find both.

Potty Training Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All Toilet training is a significant milestone for children and their families. However, for neurodivergent children, including those with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, this journey can present unique challenges. Understanding the Challenges Neurodivergent children may face several obstacles during toilet training: Sensory Sensitivities: Discomfort with the feel of toilet paper, coldness , the sound of flushing or poo/ wee hitting the water, or the brightness of bathroom lighting. Communication Differences: Challenges in expressing the need to use the toilet or recognising bodily cues can lead to accidents Routine Resistance: A preference for sameness and resistance to change can make adapting to new routines difficult. Gastrointestinal Issues: Conditions like constipation or diarrhea can complicate the process and cause discomfort and withholding. Strategies for Success Implementing tailored strategies can make toilet training more manageable: Visual Schedules: Use clear, step-by-step visual aids or routine boards to outline the toileting process, helping children understand expectations Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small successes with praise or rewards to encourage continued progress. Instead of giving a reward each time a step is completed, agree on a certain number of ticks or stickers needed to get the reward. Rewards can be toys, food, family time or praise; make it meaningful for your child! Sensory-Friendly Environments: Modify the bathroom setting to reduce sensory overload, such as using soft lighting, noise-cancelling headphones or a heater. Consistent Routines: Establish regular toileting times to build predictability and reduce anxiety. Professional Support: Engage with specialists, such as pelvic health physiotherapists, to address specific concerns and help you along this journey. You're Not Alone Remember, every child's journey is unique, and progress may be gradual. Patience, understanding, and tailored support are key to navigating the challenges of toilet training. If you need assistance or have concerns about your child's toileting journey so far, don't hesitate to reach out. Together, we can work towards a positive and successful toileting experience.

Understanding Menopause: How a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Can Help You Thrive Through the Change At Pelvic Health Melbourne, we know that menopause isn't just a stage of life—it’s a deeply personal transition that can impact your body, confidence, and quality of life in ways you may not expect. As pelvic health physiotherapists, we’re here to support and empower you with respectful, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. What Is Menopause and Perimenopause? Menopause marks the end of your menstrual cycle, officially diagnosed when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. The years leading up to this, known as perimenopause, are when many of the most noticeable symptoms begin normally from 40 years old During this time, fluctuating hormone levels—particularly a drop in oestrogen—can lead to a range of physical and emotional changes. Some are widely known, others less talked about, but all are valid and worthy of care. Common Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause Increased blood loss during periods Weight gain and bloating - especially new weight deposits around the stomach Low libido or sexual discomfort - our vagina shrinks both in length and width Bladder urgency, frequency, or leakage Vaginal dryness or pelvic discomfort - use silicon based lubes as water based just absorb in too easily Pelvic organ prolapse or heaviness Hot flushes and night sweats Mood swings, anxiety, and low mood Fatigue and disrupted sleep - waking for a few hours in middle of night then exhausted in morning Brain fog and memory changes These symptoms can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone—and you don’t need to suffer through them in silence. How Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Can Support You At Pelvic Health Melbourne, our experienced physiotherapists work with you holistically to address the physical changes of menopause that affect your pelvic floor, bladder, bowel, and sexual health. Here’s how we can help: 1. Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation We assess and treat pelvic floor muscle weakness, overactivity, or incoordination. This helps reduce urinary urgency, incontinence, heaviness, and discomfort. 2. Bladder & Bowel Retraining Menopause can alter bladder sensitivity and bowel regularity. We provide personalised strategies to restore control and confidence. 3. Sexual Wellness Support Painful intimacy or decreased sensation are common but treatable. We use gentle, respectful approaches including pelvic floor therapy, education, and support for vaginal tissue health including discussions about topical oestrogen therapy, vaginal dilation (if required), vibrators to assist blood supply and appropriate lubrication for stage of life. 4. Movement & Strength Programs Specific exercise program for you respecting non restorative sleep, need for more stretch and cardio allowing for adequate body recovery. 5. Education & Empowerment We take the time to explain what’s happening in your body, and why, so you feel more in control. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about your health and wellbeing. Why Choose Pelvic Health Melbourne? At Pelvic Health Melbourne, we do more than treat symptoms—we care for the whole person. We offer: Longer, unrushed appointments Private, purpose-designed rooms Highly skilled and specialised clinicians An inclusive space and point of mond Care that respects your lived experience We believe every woman deserves dignity, support, and solutions—not dismissal or shame. Take the Next Step If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and feeling unsure where to turn, we invite you to start with us. Whether you’ve just started noticing changes or have been putting up with symptoms for years, now is the right time to seek support. Book an appointment with one of our experienced pelvic health physiotherapists today. Let’s work together to help you feel strong, supported, and at home in your body again.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse, or POP, is a symptom that affects many people but is not always openly discussed. It occurs when one or more pelvic organs—such as the bladder, bowel, or uterus—shift from their normal position and descend, often resting against the vaginal wall. While some degree of movement is considered normal, a prolapse is diagnosed when symptoms are present. What Does POP Feel Like? People with POP often describe a sense of heaviness or dragging in the pelvis. Others may notice a bulge in or outside the vagina, discomfort during daily activities, or a feeling that something is “coming down.” POP can also affect bladder and bowel function, leading to symptoms like incomplete emptying or frequent urgency. What Increases the Risk of POP? The most significant risk factor for developing POP is vaginal childbirth. However, it's not just childbirth itself, but certain factors around the delivery that play a role: Birth weight over 4kg Pushing for less than 20 minutes or more than 2 hours Obstructed labour or instrumental delivery (forceps, vacuum) Other contributing lifestyle factors include: Chronic constipation or long-term straining Persistent coughing (e.g., due to asthma or smoking) Heavy lifting over extended periods Family history of prolapse Menopause, due to hormonal changes affecting tissue support Conservative Treatment Options For many people, POP can be managed conservatively without surgery. Treatment may include: Pelvic Floor Muscle Training : Strengthening these muscles improves the support they provide to pelvic organs. Horizontal Rest : Lying down throughout the day can help reduce the sensation of heaviness and give your body time to recover. Hormonal Therapies : Your doctor may prescribe topical oestrogen to help strengthen vaginal tissues, particularly after menopause. Pessary Use : A pessary is a small silicone device inserted into the vagina to provide internal support for the organs. Lifestyle Modifications : Addressing chronic constipation or cough and avoiding unsafe repetitive heavy lifting can reduce strain on the pelvic floor. For personalised guidance, it’s important to consult a qualified pelvic health physiotherapist who can tailor your treatment to your specific needs and goals. When Is Surgery Considered? In more severe cases of prolapse, or when conservative measures do not relieve symptoms, surgery may be recommended. If this is the case, your healthcare provider will refer you to a specialist for a comprehensive assessment and to discuss your surgical options. Conclusion Pelvic Organ Prolapse is common, but with the right support and management strategies, it doesn’t have to limit your quality of life. Early intervention through physiotherapy and lifestyle changes can significantly improve symptoms and help you feel confident in your body again. If you're experiencing symptoms or want to know more, reach out to a pelvic health physiotherapist to explore your options.

The pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in supporting your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. While much attention is given to strengthening these muscles, it’s just as important to understand when they are overactive —meaning they have difficulty relaxing or letting go. Overactivity in the pelvic floor can contribute to a wide range of symptoms, often overlooked or misdiagnosed. What Are Overactive Pelvic Floor Muscles? Overactive pelvic floor muscles are muscles that remain tense or tight when they should be able to relax. This tension may be constant or triggered by certain activities, positions, or stressors. Some common causes include: Ongoing pelvic, hip, or lower back pain Chronic conditions like endometriosis, adenomyosis, or bladder/urethral pain Recurrent vaginal infections (e.g., thrush or UTIs) or vulval skin disorders Holding stress or anxiety in the abdomen or pelvis High-intensity or repetitive exercise Past trauma, including childbirth or emotional/sexual experiences Even athletes or those who do frequent pelvic floor exercises may develop tightness—sometimes without realizing it. Signs and Symptoms of Overactivity Symptoms can vary, but people with overactive pelvic floor muscles often report: Bladder symptoms: Difficulty starting urination Slow or interrupted urine stream A feeling of incomplete emptying Bowel symptoms: Thin or pellet-like stools Incomplete evacuation Difficulty releasing wind Intimacy-related symptoms: Pain with penetration or deep intercourse Discomfort or pain during tampon use or pap smears Vaginal burning, aching, spasms, or tenderness Difficulty achieving orgasm These symptoms are not “just in your head”—they are often signs that your pelvic floor may be holding more tension than it should. Treatment Options If you suspect your pelvic floor muscles may be overactive, a pelvic health physiotherapist can help. At Pelvic Health Melbourne , our team is trained to assess your pelvic floor function and tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. Treatment may include: Manual therapy to release tight pelvic floor muscles Pelvic floor downtraining and stretches to improve relaxation Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, gentle movement, or listening to calming music Use of heat packs to reduce muscle tension and pain We’ll also help you explore lifestyle changes and emotional support to address any underlying contributors to pelvic tension. You Don’t Have to Live With Discomfort. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek support. Many people live with pelvic floor dysfunction for years without realising the cause of their discomfort. Early assessment and treatment can make a significant difference. Book an appointment with our team at Pelvic Health Melbourne and take the first step toward feeling better in your body.