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.

Understanding Bladder Urgency and Overactive Bladder: How to Regain Control Do you often find yourself rushing to the bathroom or struggling with an uncontrollable urge to urinate? You’re not alone! Bladder urgency and overactive bladder (OAB) affect millions of people, disrupting daily life and causing frustration. The good news? There are ways to manage these symptoms and take back control of your bladder health. What Is Bladder Urgency and Overactive Bladder? Bladder urgency is the sudden and intense need to urinate, often making it difficult to delay a trip to the bathroom. Overactive bladder (OAB) takes this a step further, causing frequent urination, urgency, and sometimes even leakage (urge incontinence). These symptoms can occur day and night, impacting sleep, work, and social activities. What Causes These Symptoms? Bladder urgency and OAB can stem from various factors, including: Bladder muscle overactivity – The bladder contracts too often, creating a frequent urge to urinate. Nerve dysfunction – Conditions like diabetes, stroke, or spinal cord injuries can affect bladder control. Hormonal changes – Menopause or hormonal imbalances may contribute to OAB symptoms. Dietary triggers – Caffeine, alcohol, salty foods, and artificial sweeteners can irritate the bladder. Pelvic floor dysfunction – Weak or tight pelvic floor muscles can contribute to poor bladder control. How Can You Manage Bladder Urgency and OAB? The first step to managing OAB is understanding what triggers your symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like adjusting fluid intake, avoiding bladder irritants, and practicing bladder training techniques, can make a significant difference. How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help? Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a highly effective treatment for bladder urgency and OAB. A pelvic floor physio or osteo can help you: Strengthen or relax pelvic floor muscles to improve bladder control. Retrain your bladder with behavioral techniques and deferral strategies . Reduce tension in the pelvic floor. Transtibial Nerve Stimulations using TENS (TTNS) If you’re struggling with bladder urgency or OAB, you don’t have to suffer in silence. With the right strategies and support, including pelvic floor physiotherapy, you can regain confidence and improve your quality of life. Reach out to a pelvic health professional today and take the first step toward better bladder health!

Understanding Stress Urinary Incontinence: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a common yet often misunderstood condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can impact anyone, but it’s more prevalent among women, especially those who have had children, are aging, or are experiencing hormonal changes. Despite its name, SUI is not about emotional stress but refers to the physical stress or pressure placed on the bladder that leads to involuntary leakage of urine. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what SUI is, its causes, symptoms, and available treatment options. What is Stress Urinary Incontinence? Stress urinary incontinence occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and the tissues surrounding the bladder weaken, leading to leakage of urine during physical activity or moments of increased abdominal pressure. These activities include sneezing, coughing, laughing, exercising, or even lifting heavy objects. The pressure on the bladder can overwhelm the muscles responsible for holding urine in, leading to an unintended release of urine. While it’s a condition that many find embarrassing to talk about, it is also highly treatable, and understanding it is the first step toward seeking effective solutions. Causes of Stress Urinary Incontinence SUI usually results from a weakening or dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles, which provide support to the bladder, urethra, and other pelvic organs. These muscles can weaken for a variety of reasons, including: Childbirth : Vaginal delivery, particularly if it’s difficult or involves a large baby, can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles. This is one of the most common causes of SUI in women. Aging : As women (and men) age, the muscles in the pelvic floor lose some of their strength and elasticity. The decrease in estrogen levels after menopause can also contribute to weakening of the tissues in the pelvic area. Obesity : Excess weight puts additional pressure on the bladder and pelvic floor muscles, which can contribute to SUI. Chronic Coughing or Sneezing or constipation : Conditions such as chronic respiratory issues or allergies that cause frequent coughing or sneezing can increase pressure on the bladder and trigger leakage. Pelvic Surgery or Radiation : Previous surgeries, particularly those involving the reproductive organs, or radiation therapy can damage or weaken the pelvic floor muscles, leading to incontinence. Genetics and hypermobility : Some people may be genetically predisposed to a weaker pelvic floor or hypermobility, which can lead to SUI. Symptoms of Stress Urinary Incontinence The primary symptom of SUI is the involuntary leakage of urine during moments of physical exertion. The severity can vary depending on the individual and the underlying causes. Some common signs and symptoms include: Leakage during physical activity : Any activity that increases abdominal pressure, like running, jumping, or even lifting a heavy object, may trigger leakage. Frequent leaks with coughing or sneezing : Many people with SUI experience accidents when they cough, sneeze, or laugh. Feeling of urgency : Some individuals may feel a sudden and strong need to urinate, especially when combined with physical activity. It’s important to note that while stress incontinence is the most common type of urinary incontinence, it is different from urge incontinence, which is caused by an overactive bladder. Management Options for Stress Urinary Incontinence The good news is that there are many effective treatments for SUI, ranging from conservative measures to surgical interventions. The best treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the patient’s overall health. Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegel Exercises) The first line of treatment for SUI is usually pelvic floor exercises, commonly known as Kegel exercises. These exercises involve repeatedly contracting and relaxing the muscles that control urination. Regular practice of Kegels can strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder control. Biofeedback Pelvic floor physical therapy uses a combination of techniques, including biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and manual therapy, to help strengthen the pelvic muscles. A trained therapist can guide you through these exercises and monitor progress. Surgical Treatments For more severe cases of stress urinary incontinence that don’t respond to conservative treatments, surgery may be necessary. Common surgical options include: Sling Surgery : A sling made of mesh or other materials is used to support the urethra and prevent leakage. Colposuspension : The bladder neck is lifted and secured to reduce leakage. Artificial Urinary Sphincter : This implantable device can help control urine flow in cases of severe incontinence. At Pelvic Health Melbourne, our physiotherapists can help using these management techniques and work closely with surgeons to ensure optimal recovery if surgery is indicated. Stress urinary incontinence is a manageable condition, and with the right treatment plan, individuals can regain control over their bladder and improve their quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms of SUI, don’t hesitate to speak with a healthcare provider. Early intervention can help prevent the condition from worsening and lead to effective relief. Remember, you are not alone in dealing with this issue, and there are numerous options available to help you feel confident and comfortable again. Take the first step today and seek the support you deserve.