Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

Body Treatments

Referral Required

Typical Waiting Time

No Waiting Time

Procedure Type

Outpatient

Procedure Time

Sessions Vary Per Person

Results

Varies Per Person

Recovery Time

Varies Per Person

Back to Work

Immediately

Full Recovery

Varies On Condition

Duration of Results

Should Continue Once Suggested Plan Completed

Risks & Complication

Minimal

Our Women’s Health Physiotherapist welcomes all women who want to feel and be better during all life stages.

Many conditions are addressed that can arise during pregnancy, as a result of birth, the fourth trimester and beyond. Bespoke pelvic health assessments and rehab plans are not only offered during the perinatal phase but also for those experiencing symptoms during menopause or exercise; irrespective of having had children or not.

Women can choose to attend for in person, online or a hybrid combination of appointments. The approach is flexible and will best support the needs and goals of each patient.

Alongside offering 1-1 care packages, online physio led pregnancy and postnatal Pilates programmes are also available, which focus on core, body and pelvic floor connection, restoration and strength.

The online small group coaching programme ‘Birth to Better’ is an opportunity to be supported and guided with early postnatal recovery from as early as one week after delivery and from the comfort of home.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is composed of a thin sheet of muscles and associated connective tissue which stretch from the area beneath the pelvis between the pubic bone at the front to the sacrum or tail bone at the back (see illustration above).

What is the function of the pelvic floor muscles?

supports the bladder and bowel in men, and the bladder, bowel and uterus in women.
works with your stomach, back muscles and diaphragm to control the pressure inside your abdomen to deal with the downward pressure when you lift or strain, such as during exercise.
contracts when you cough, sneeze or strain, helping to prevent the involuntary leakage of urine.
supports the organs in your abdomen especially when you are standing.
protects the pelvic organs from external damage.
holds the pelvic organs, like the bladder in the correct position.
controls the passing of urine, gas and bowel motions.
play a role in sexual function during intercourse.

For the pelvic floor muscles to carry out their function well, they need to be fit and adequately toned just like any other muscle in the body.

What are the signs of a weak pelvic floor?

A weakness of the pelvic floor muscles may contribute to various problems including:

Stress urinary incontinence - The accidental leaking of urine due to strain or physical exertion, including when you exercise, laugh, cough or sneeze.
Urge urinary incontinence - The accidental leaking of urine associated with a sudden or constant need to pass urine.

In men, this may be felt as a bulge in the rectum or a feeling of needing to use their bowels but not actually needing to go or difficulty in emptying the bladder or bowel.

In women, this may be felt as a bulge in the vagina or a feeling of pain in your pelvic area with heaviness, discomfort, pulling, dragging or dropping sensation.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse - The bulging of the bladder or bowel, or womb into the vagina or, in more severe cases, out of the vaginal entrance.
Diminished sexual sensation or feeling of vaginal looseness and painful sexual intercourse.
Loss of control or the accidentally losing control of your bladder or bowel.
Spinal & Pelvic Pain - Back / pelvic pain is a very common symptom that can arise for many reasons throughout the life span. However, nearly half of all pregnant women will experience back and /or pelvic pain during pregnancy and about 25% of these women will continue to experience pain in the fourth trimester and beyond.
Diastasis Recti Abdominus / DRA (abdominal muscle separation / doming) - DRA is classified as thinning and widening of the linea alba which is a collagen strip down the midline abdominal wall. 100% of pregnant women will experience this at least by the third trimester and approximately 2/3 of women will recover spontaneously within 6-8 weeks post birth. For those that continue to notice gapping between the muscles, doming / coning of the midline, or generally feel their ‘core’ weak, should access specific care to improve physical function and aesthetics of their abdomen.

What causes weakness in the pelvic floor muscles?

Problems can arise in your pelvic floor health when the muscles are stretched, weakened or too tight.

Some people have weak pelvic floor muscles from an early age, whilst certain life events such as pregnancy, childbirth or menopause, can lead to issues within pelvic health.

Pelvic floor muscle fitness is affected by several things, including:

Underuse - As with all muscles, the pelvic floor muscles need exercise to work well. It is, therefore, important to regularly exercise the pelvic floor muscles all through life, for both men and women and not just after having children.
Overuse - Heavy lifting and straining during exercise. Some people have pelvic floor muscles that are too tight and cannot relax. This can be made worse by doing squeezing exercises and overworking the muscles without learning how to relax.
Pregnancy and childbirth can cause damage to the muscles.
4. Age-related decrease in muscle tone.
Long term straining to empty the bowels when constipated or due to a chronic cough or sneezing, including when linked to asthma, smoking or hay fever can lead to damage to the pelvic floor muscles.

6. Being overweight - Obesity or having a body mass index over 25.

What happens during a pelvic health assessment and what treatments are offered?

Medical History

Our pelvic health physiotherapist will discuss medical history, bladder and bowel habits, spinal health, physical activity levels and anything that is of concern to the patient. Discussion around desired outcomes is important at this stage.

Physical Assessment

A whole body musculoskeletal and pelvic health assessment is carried based on the initial discussion. The physiotherapist will screen posture, overall movement and how your body responds to pressured tasks such as coughing, sit ups and jogging on the spot.

An internal pelvic floor examination is carried out with consent only. You will be lying comfortably on your back, discreetly covered by a sheet, and with a gloved lubricated finger, the physiotherapist will digitally assess the pelvic floor to determine muscle tone, strength, pain / sensitivity and pelvic organ descent.

An individualised rehabilitation plan is devised and mutually agreed upon based on the entire assessment and if appropriate, will include:

education, tips and advice about pelvic health
manual therapy
pelvic floor exercises
breath work
perineal stretching
perineal &/ or c section massage
body mobility
strengthening and conditioning routines.

Approximate progress timelines will be discussed with follow up sessions scheduled accordingly.

What are the benefits of this treatment?

Pelvic health, core and body training can significantly improve quality of life.

Improving pelvic floor function can reduce and alleviate many symptoms such as back pain, urinary urgency / leakage, constipation and diastasis recti. Such symptoms can significantly impact body image and relationships, ability to partake in normal life activities and exercise. Therefore, physical and mental wellbeing will be markedly elevated with treatment to overcome personal symptoms.

How long does it take to recover?

Each woman’s presentation and recovery is unique to her, and it is impossible to predict how many sessions are required; she is expected to be consistent as possible with a home treatment plan to support 1-1 sessions, which are typically 3-6 weeks apart.

Where can I access a pelvic health assessment?

Initial consultations and follow up treatment sessions take place at the Maypole Clinic in Hollywood or online from the comfort of home.

Is a referral required?

A referral is not required, however any information you do have prior to your appointment (if you have been to see your GP / had a pelvic floor assessment etc) will be discussed at your initial consultation.

If you would like to book an appointment or require further information on the available options, please do not hesitate to contact our private patient booking team via our online enquiry form.

Alternatively, email Kingsbridge Cosmetic Clinic

Tel 028 9042 3200

Treatment Locations

Kingsbridge Outpatient Clinic Maypole

5-7 Shore Rd, Holywood, BT18 9HX

Healthcare Professionals & Consultants

Dr Patrick Campbell

Consultant Gynaecologist

Laura Forker

Female Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Patient Journey

Find out what your journey will be from diagnosis to treatment

Self Funded Journey

Patient Testimonials

"I am extremely happy with the treatment, and with the standard of care I have received. There is no doubt as to whether this treatment is highly effective. I have had several cosmetic surgeries (although not on my face) but can say in comparing the results of the Spring Thread procedure with other less invasive treatments, the results are more in keeping with the surgical procedures I have had." Spring Thread Patient Review, Kinsgbridge Cosmetic Surgery Clinic Patient

"I had surgery here at the weekend and I can't recommend this place highly enough. They took great care of me and kept me at ease throughout my stay. The staff were brilliant, really friendly and chatted away and the food was top class. This hospital was better than any hotel I wonder could I book a weekend away in it when I fully recover?" Mr McGinnity, Kingsbridge Patient

"EXCELLENT - Had surgery today under the very caring Dr Stewart and her team. I cannot thank her enough for all she’s done for me over the past few months. Everything was explained to me in detail and all my care was considerate, professional and compassionate. Everyone I’ve met today has been beyond kind from Will the Anaesthetist, the Nurses and theatre staff, the catering staff - there has been no exception. Thank you all for taking care of me so well today - look forward to getting home tomorrow x" Mrs McAleavey, Kingsbridge Patient

"Hospital spotless and clean. Staff were so caring couldn’t do enough for me and made sure I was comfortable. Give the place 10 out of 10. Had surgery yesterday and treatment was first class" Ms Demirtas, Kingsbridge Patient

"Their service was excellent and convenient location!" Ms Kneale, Kingsbridge Patient

"Just received surgery at this hospital and I couldn't have been made to feel any more comfortable from the minute I stepped in until the minute I left. All the staff are wonderful and so friendly I will highly recommend this hospital to everyone" Ms McGivern, Kingsbridge Patient

"Had eye surgery here twice for cataracts and lens replacement. Super smooth service from start to finish. Very happy" Ms Jones, Kingsbridge Patient

"As hospitals go this one is pretty amazing! Had surgery with Mr Molloy at the end of October and have another one the end of this month. Mr Molloy is a gentleman who puts you at ease right away and ensured my last procedure went smoothly! From start to finish all the hospital staff go above and beyond to make your stay as comfortable and stress free as possible. The facilities are brilliant with the rooms spacious and modern to recover in. Keep up the good work!" Ms Roulston, Kingsbridge Patient

"My mother had a total hip replacement surgery. We stayed for three days and were discharged today. Honestly, words can't describe the quality of the job and care they do. The doctors Roger Wilson, Sherman, David, the nurses Susan, Sinead, Siobhan, Andrea, the catering staff who provided customised halal food, and the remaining team whose names I cannot remember were the kindest, nicest, politest, the most caring, professional and pleasant people we have ever come across in healthcare environment. These are true gems and real stars. We are indebted to their treatment.
They are 7 star people. We love you!" Mr Yourish, Kingsbridge Patient

"Great friendly staff the nurses go way and beyond. The hospital is spotless, and the service is second to none." Ms Croke, Kingsbridge Patient

"Currently just back from recovery on the ward. I have just had ACL reconstructive surgery on my left knee. What can I say? This place is brilliant. I arrived at 8.35am, taken to the ward at 8.45am (my admission time was 9am). Tended to by a lovely Nurse. Dr Roger Wilson spoke to me around 9.45am, in Theatre for 10am, recovery for 11.10am and now currently back on ward. These guys are awesome. From the consultant to anaesthetist to nurses to cater assistants. Absolutely brilliant. Thank you so much. I am so grateful to everyone at Kingsbridge for the service." Mr McNicholl, Kingsbridge Patient

"I just had a total hip replacement done by Mr Molloy. He made me feel totally at ease (a real gentleman). I had 1st class treatment and as for the staff they couldn’t do enough for me. My experience was excellent from the time I arrived until the day I left for home. Thanks a million to all involved." Miss Bennett, Kingsbridge Patient

"Excellent experience with Kingsbridge Hospital, my dad had a day procedure here recently and not only did he receive fantastic care, but so did myself and my mum. The staff were so understanding and without saying anything could see I was looking after my mum also who has dementia, they went above and beyond to make the time spent waiting on my Dad as pleasant and stress free as possible, I will never forget the extra mile they went to, to support us. Many thanks x" Ms Forde, Kingsbridge Patient

"I have just been discharged from Kingsbridge today after surgery and was in for 3 days. From start to finish my experience was excellent. From catering staff up to senior nurses and doctors they were all fantastic and made my stay a positive experience. As a nurse myself I probably have high expectations of care and I certainly experienced the best of care in Kingsbridge who have staff they should be proud off. Great teamwork." Ms Armstrong, Kingsbridge Patient

"I recently had my gall bladder removed. All of the staff I had to deal with were excellent and professional. It was the best treatment I have ever received." Ms Burrows, Kingsbridge Patient

"I got my tonsils out yesterday, all the staff were so pleasant and nothing was too much for them. I really did receive one to one care. They just had so much time for me. The food was lovely and the staff from the kitchen where first class. Glad I received my surgery here." Miss Wright, Kingsbridge Patient

"The service and staff are first class. Had my cataract operation done on the 20th of January and I would like to thank all the staff of this fantastic hospital for giving me my life back. You are all a credit to your profession. Excellent service and I would highly recommend you. Once again thank you so much and I am truly grateful to you all." Mr Doolan, Kingsbridge Patient

"Amazing 5-star hospital. Have had other surgery here before on my back.
Yesterday's was a neck disc replacement operation. I would highly recommend this hospital like a hotel manner. Thanks again guys." Mr Phillips, Kingsbridge Patient

"I recently got an MRI scan at Kingsbridge and was very impressed with how simple the process was and how little time I had to wait. The staff were friendly, and it was an all-round pleasant experience." Mr Sharkey, Kingsbridge Patient

"Can’t praise Kingsbridge Private Hospital enough!! I had an operation a couple of weeks ago and I was so well looked after. My surgeon Mr Rashid was fantastic, and the nursing staff was also fabulous. I found they communicated very well to each other, so everyone knew when my meds were due, my allergies etc. They were so kind, so lovely, constantly checked to see how I was i.e. my temperature etc. The food was fabulous and the catering staff very helpful having had an operation were very happy to accommodate ... Thank you to all!" Ms Cheong, Kingsbridge Patient

"Staff very friendly and very efficient. Surgeon and surgery top class. Big thanks to the Nurses for all their care and patience" Mr Howard, Kingsbridge Patient

"I was in your facility yesterday for a day procedure (operation on my left arm). I wanted to write and express how impressed I was with the facilities and more importantly the staff on the Ward.

Everyone was excellent, and I mean excellent, i don't normally write congratulatory e-mails so this is high praise in my view. The Senior nurse was excellent, as was the Theatre nurse and the anaesthetist. Even the assistants that helped with catering and other duties. All came together to form a great impression of the establishment." Jason Carpal Tunnel Surgery, Kingsbridge Patient