IVY Integrative / Services / Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic Floor Therapy
WHAT IS PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY?
Pelvic Floor Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy focused on strengthening and restoring the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support the pelvic organs. This non-invasive therapy helps improve bladder, bowel, and sexual function, relieve pelvic pain, and support overall core stability. At IVY Integrative, Pelvic Floor Therapy is provided by Dr. Bryan, one of only five Board-Certified Women’s Health Specialists within 100 miles of Charlotte, NC, offering exceptional expertise in pelvic health and rehabilitation. She is also certified in lymphedema therapy, providing specialized care for patients recovering from cancer treatments and those experiencing lymphatic swelling.
BENEFITS OF PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY
Pelvic Floor Therapy can provide relief from incontinence, pelvic pain, and pelvic organ prolapse while improving core strength and stability. Patients often experience better bladder and bowel control, reduced discomfort during daily activities, improved posture, and enhanced recovery after childbirth or surgery. By retraining and strengthening the pelvic muscles, therapy supports long-term pelvic health and overall functional wellness.
HOW PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY WORKS
During Pelvic Floor Therapy, patients learn exercises, stretches, and techniques to strengthen or relax the pelvic muscles. Therapists may use manual therapy, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, and targeted movement training to restore normal function and reduce pain. By improving coordination between the pelvic floor, core, and diaphragm, therapy enhances organ support, stabilizes the spine, and promotes optimal urinary, bowel, and sexual function.
COMMON CONDITIONS TREATED BY PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY
Pelvic Floor Therapy can help treat urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, chronic pelvic pain, painful intercourse, postpartum recovery challenges, and overactive bladder. It is also beneficial for men recovering from prostate surgery, individuals with pelvic tension or instability, and patients experiencing pelvic dysfunction related to pregnancy, aging, or injury.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY SESSION
During your session, your therapist will perform a comprehensive assessment to evaluate pelvic muscle strength, coordination, and mobility. Your treatment plan may include therapeutic exercises, hands-on manual therapy, relaxation techniques, and biofeedback to improve muscle awareness and function. Sessions are private, supportive, and personalized to help you safely strengthen or release pelvic muscles and restore normal function over time.
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY
Pelvic Floor Therapy is generally safe, but treatment may be modified or postponed during pregnancy without provider guidance. Patients with active pelvic infections, unhealed surgical sites, or severe pelvic pain from an undiagnosed cause should consult their healthcare provider before beginning therapy.
FAQ
Is pelvic floor therapy painful?
Pelvic Floor Therapy is typically gentle and comfortable, though mild tenderness may occur when releasing tight muscles.How many sessions will I need?
Many patients notice improvement within 6–12 sessions, though treatment length varies depending on the condition being treated.Can men benefit from pelvic floor therapy?
Yes. Pelvic Floor Therapy can help men improve urinary function, sexual health, and pelvic pain.Is pelvic floor therapy helpful after childbirth?
Yes. Pelvic therapy is one of the most effective ways to restore pelvic muscle strength, improve bladder control, and support postpartum recovery.
