Pelvic Health Physical Therapy

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, connective tissue, nerves, and organs of the pelvis. These structures play a role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, pregnancy and postpartum recovery, and core stability. Pelvic floor PT addresses how these systems work together, not just isolated muscles, and looks at the whole body and lifestyle factors that influence pelvic health.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help with a wide range of concerns, including:

• Pain with sex or pelvic exams

• Urinary leakage or urgency

• Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms

• Pregnancy related pain and postpartum recovery

• Fertility support and cycle related symptoms

• Endometriosis related pain

• Constipation or difficulty emptying bowels

• Pelvic pain, tailbone pain, or hip pain

• Diastasis recti and core weakness

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are related to your pelvic floor, a pelvic PT can help determine that.

No. Pelvic floor physical therapy is for women, men and kids. Men can experience pelvic floor dysfunction related to urinary symptoms, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, or prostate related concerns. Children can also benefit from pelvic floor PT for issues like bedwetting or bowel dysfunction.

In Texas, you do not need a referral to start physical therapy thanks to direct access laws. However, some insurance plans require a referral for reimbursement. If you are unsure, we are happy to help you figure out what is needed.

Your first visit is focused on understanding you, your symptoms, and your goals. Expect:

• A detailed conversation about your history, symptoms, and lifestyle

• Education on how the pelvic floor works and how it may relate to your concerns

• A thorough assessment that may include posture, breathing, movement, and muscle function

• A home exercise plan that accounts for your symptoms and life style.

Nothing is rushed, and you are always in control of what happens during the session.

No. An internal exam is never mandatory. While it can provide helpful information in some cases, there are many ways to assess and treat pelvic floor dysfunction externally. Your comfort and consent always come first, and treatment can be adapted to meet your wants and needs.

This varies depending on your symptoms, goals, and consistency with care. Some people feel improvement in just a few visits, while others benefit from several months of treatment. We focus on progress, education, and giving you tools so you are not dependent on therapy forever.

Pelvic floor physical therapy should not be painful. Some techniques may feel unfamiliar or mildly uncomfortable at times, but treatment should always feel safe and respectful. Communication is key, and your therapist will adjust based on your feedback.

Wear something comfortable that allows you to move easily, like leggings, athletic shorts, or loose pants. Comfort is the priority!

Coverage depends on your insurance plan. Many pelvic floor practices choose to be out of network in order to provide longer, one on one sessions and a higher level of specialized care. We can provide receipts for possible reimbursement or HSA and FSA use.

Pelvic floor physical therapists have advanced training beyond standard physical therapy school. This specialty focuses on the pelvis, reproductive organs, bladder, bowel function, and how these systems interact with the rest of the body. Pelvic floor PT is highly individualized and often includes education, manual therapy, nervous system regulation, and lifestyle guidance.

Item descriptionPelvic floor dysfunction is rarely caused by just one thing. Common contributors include:

• Pregnancy and childbirth

• Chronic stress or tension

• Hormonal changes

• Surgery or trauma

• Overtraining or undertraining

• Poor breathing mechanics

• Chronic constipation or straining

Understanding the root cause is a major part of effective treatment.

Most treatment plans include some form of home program, but it is tailored to you. This may include breathing, mobility work, gentle strengthening, or habit changes. It is never about doing endless exercises. The goal is realistic, sustainable progress.

It is never too late. Whether your symptoms started years ago or recently, pelvic floor physical therapy can still help. Many people seek care decades after childbirth or surgery and see meaningful improvement.

Kegels are just a voluntary contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. Many people actually have pelvic floor muscles that are too tight, not weak, and Kegels can make symptoms worse. Pelvic floor physical therapy looks at strength, coordination, relaxation, breathing, and how the muscles function as a system, not just squeezing exercises.