How do you know if your pelvic floor is weak?

A weak pelvic floor can cause symptoms such as leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise; a frequent or urgent need to pass urine; difficulty controlling wind; or a heavy, dragging sensation in the pelvis.

What exactly is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues at the base of your pelvis. These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and (in women) the uterus, and they help control bladder and bowel function.

How do I strengthen my pelvic floor?

Pelvic floor exercises (often called Kegels) are the best way to strengthen these muscles. A physiotherapist can teach you the correct technique, create a tailored plan, and guide you on how often to practice for lasting results.

Does walking strengthen the pelvic floor?

Walking is excellent for overall health but is not enough on its own to strengthen the pelvic floor. Targeted pelvic floor exercises are usually required.

Do squats strengthen the pelvic floor?

Squats can help if performed correctly, but they are not a substitute for specific pelvic floor exercises. Combining squats with a guided pelvic floor programme is usually most effective.

Why do I leak urine after I pee?

Post-void dribbling can happen if the pelvic floor muscles don’t fully contract after urination, leaving a small amount of urine in the urethra. Pelvic floor exercises can often improve this.

How do you stop urine leakage after peeing?

Strengthening the pelvic floor, learning correct toilet posture, and performing specific exercises can reduce leakage. A physiotherapist can provide a tailored plan and advice.

When to be concerned about urine leakage?

Occasional small leaks are common, but if leakage is frequent, worsening, or affecting your daily life, it’s worth seeking help. Physiotherapy can often improve symptoms without surgery or medication.

How can I access physiotherapy treatment?

You can book directly with a private physiotherapist or be referred through your GP or healthcare provider. At my clinic, you can self-refer and arrange an appointment easily.

What will happen at my appointment?

At your first session, we’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and goals. I’ll then carry out an assessment, which may include an internal pelvic floor examination (if appropriate and with your consent). Together, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan.

How can I help my pelvic floor?

Alongside guided exercises, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding constipation, staying active, and managing how you lift heavy objects all help protect the pelvic floor.

What conditions do you treat?

I treat a wide range of pelvic health issues, including urinary and bowel incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, pregnancy-related conditions, postnatal recovery, menopause-related changes, and rehabilitation after surgery.

Will my incontinence get worse as I get older?

 Incontinence can become more common with age due to hormonal changes, menopause, or muscle weakening, but it is not something you have to “just live with.” Physiotherapy can help manage and often reduce symptoms.

I leak when I sneeze or run, can physiotherapy help?

Yes. This type of leakage, known as stress incontinence, is often linked to pelvic floor weakness. Physiotherapy and targeted exercises are highly effective in treating it.

What are the signs of pelvic organ prolapse?

Symptoms may include a bulge or heaviness in the vagina, difficulty emptying the bladder or bowel, or discomfort during intimacy. Not everyone has symptoms, so an assessment can help confirm if a prolapse is present.

What can I expect from an internal pelvic floor examination?

If appropriate and with your full consent, an internal exam allows the physiotherapist to assess the strength, coordination, and tone of your pelvic floor muscles. It is a gentle, respectful process and can provide vital information for tailoring your treatment plan.