F is for . . . The ABC's of Pelvic Health

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.