Written By: Pia Smith, OTR/L – Pelvic Health Occupational Therapist
Pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t just affect the body, it can disrupt every aspect of one’s life. Occupational Therapists address the whole person and their ability to perform and enjoy their daily activities or “occupations.” When pelvic floor dysfunction limits participation, it can affect a person’s physical, social, and emotional well-being. Through pelvic floor therapy, clients can regain the ability to engage in what matters most to them and lead a fulfilling life.
One of the primary goals of pelvic floor therapy is to restore proper muscle function, including strengthening weak muscles, relaxing tight muscles, and improving the coordinated function of the pelvic floor, core, and diaphragm. When there is an imbalance in the body, pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in a variety of ways – including incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, or sexual discomfort – all of which can significantly disrupt daily life and erode confidence and comfort in one’s body.
Incontinence, whether urinary or fecal, is one of the most common concerns that bring people to pelvic floor therapy. It can lead to feelings of embarrassment, isolation, depression, and anxiety about social participation. Through manual therapy, targeted strengthening, and lifestyle modifications, an Occupational Therapist can help individuals regain control over these bodily functions. With this control, clients can return to activities like traveling, socializing, exercising, or simply sneezing or laughing without fear of leakage. By addressing physical dysfunction, we also support emotional well-being, reducing anxiety and enhancing self-esteem.
Pelvic pain is another common reason people seek pelvic floor therapy. This discomfort can interfere with everyday activities, such as sitting, walking, or engaging in intimate relationships. Using techniques like manual therapy, targeted stretching, and biofeedback, our clients learn to release tension in their pelvic muscles and reduce pelvic pain. This, in turn, empowers clients to participate in their meaningful occupations with greater comfort and confidence.
Sexual health can be significantly impacted by pelvic floor dysfunction, contributing to pain during intercourse (dyspareunia), loss of sensation, or erectile dysfunction. These issues may reduce the desire for intimacy, strain relationships, and negatively affect one’s quality of life. Pelvic floor therapy effectively addresses these concerns by improving muscle coordination, flexibility, and strength. With personalized exercises and guided techniques, therapy can help reduce pain, improve blood flow, and boost confidence, ultimately leading to more comfortable and fulfilling sexual experiences.
Occupational Therapists recognize the importance of addressing the emotional and psychological impact of pelvic floor dysfunction. It is common for people facing these issues to have feelings of embarrassment, frustration, anxiety, or depression. These emotional symptoms can lead people to withdraw from their community or avoid talking about their struggles. Many people avoid activities that once brought them joy and may struggle to engage in essential roles and routines, such as work, home care, childcare, or self-care.
Pelvic floor therapy empowers individuals by equipping them with tools to manage and alleviate their symptoms. We use relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, and mindfulness strategies to help manage pain, stress, and anxiety. When people feel more in control of their bodies, they gain the confidence to return to the activities that matter most to them.
As an Occupational Therapist at Reborn Pelvic Health & Wellness, I am proud to bring a whole-person approach that supports physical, emotional, and social well-being, helping clients regain confidence and return to meaningful activities that make life full and functional.