Myths, Misconceptions, and the Path to Wellness
When we talk about health and wellness, certain aspects of the body are openly discussed and widely accepted. However, there’s one area that often remains in the shadows: pelvic floor health. Despite its crucial role in our overall well being, pelvic floor therapy is frequently overlooked, misunderstood, or even seen as taboo. It’s time to break that stigma, dispel the myths, and empower all people to take control of their pelvic health.
Myth #1: Pelvic Floor Issues Only Affect Older Women or Postpartum Moms
One of the most common misconceptions is that pelvic floor therapy is only for older women or those who have recently given birth. While it's true that pregnancy and aging can contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction, women of all ages and stages of life can experience pelvic health issues. Whether it’s from pregnancy or childbirth, aging, chronic constipation or coughing, surgery, trauma, connective tissue disorders, high-impact exercise, or even stress, anyone can develop symptoms that pelvic floor therapy can address.
Pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t discriminate, and by normalizing this conversation, more people can seek the help they deserve early on, before symptoms begin or worsen.
Myth #2: Pelvic Floor Therapy Is Only for Women
Pelvic floor therapy is often thought of as a women-only service, but men can benefit from it as well. Men have pelvic floors too. The same things that can cause issues for women can cause issues for men, minus pregnancy and childbirth. When there is dysfunction, it can lead to issues such as erectile dysfunction, pelvic pain, and urinary or bowel incontinence. Men recovering from prostate surgery or other pelvic surgeries can also experience pelvic floor issues that impact their daily lives.
Pelvic floor therapy for men can help address these issues through targeted exercises, manual therapy, and lifestyle adjustments. Breaking the misconception that pelvic floor health is only for women opens the door for men to seek help and improve their quality of life.
Myth #3: Pelvic Floor Therapy Is Embarrassing or Awkward
It’s completely understandable to feel hesitant about pelvic floor therapy, especially if you're not familiar with what to expect. The idea of discussing intimate areas of the body or working with a therapist in that region can feel intimidating. However, pelvic floor therapists are licensed occupational therapists or physical therapists and they approach every session with professionalism, respect, and sensitivity. The process is private, collaborative, and patient-centered.
Your therapist will guide you through exercises and other techniques that are specific to your needs, ensuring you are informed and feel comfortable every step of the way. Reframing pelvic floor therapy as a vital, empowering healthcare service, just like any other form of medical service or therapy, is key to removing the misunderstanding and embarrassment often associated with it.
Myth #4: Kegels Are the Only Answer
Many people believe that Kegel exercises are the sole solution to pelvic floor dysfunction. While Kegels can be beneficial for some, they’re not a one-size-fits-all answer. In fact, for people with a tight or hyperactive pelvic floor, Kegels may do more harm than good. Pelvic floor therapy involves a comprehensive and holistic approach tailored to your body’s specific needs and can focus on both strengthening and relaxation techniques, when your body calls for it. The stretching and strengthening can directly target your pelvic floor muscles and may also address muscles in the rest of your core, back, pelvis, or elsewhere in your body, depending on your symptoms and the factors contributing to those symptoms. Your therapist will create a personalized treatment plan, which may also include breathing exercises, manual therapies, stretches, and postural awareness.
Breaking the misconception about Kegels and what pelvic floor therapy actually looks like helps people to see pelvic floor therapy as a holistic solution that goes beyond the overly simplistic "just do Kegels" advice.
Reclaiming Your Wellbeing
Pelvic floor therapy is about so much more than just addressing symptoms—it’s about reclaiming your body and wellbeing. Too often, women especially are told that they "just have to live with" pain or dysfunction, especially when it comes to their intimate health. But the truth is, you don’t have to suffer in silence. You have the right to feel strong, healthy, and confident in your body, no matter your age or stage of life.
Pelvic floor therapy offers a path to healing that empowers people to take control of their health, rather than allowing discomfort or other symptoms to dictate their daily lives. Whether you're managing incontinence, painful sex, or lower back pain, pelvic floor therapy can provide the relief and support you need to live a more fulfilling life.
How Has Learning About Pelvic Floor Therapy Changed Your Perspective?
Have you experienced pelvic floor therapy? Or is it something you’re now considering? I’d love to hear from you. Let’s continue breaking the stigma together by sharing our stories and supporting one another in prioritizing our health. Your journey could inspire someone else to take the first step toward healing.
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