Pelvic floor health is often overlooked, but it’s something everyone should care about. From incontinence to pelvic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction affects millions of people — and the great news is, it’s treatable! As a local pelvic floor and continence physiotherapist, I want to help you understand how simple steps can boost your pelvic health and improve your quality of life.
Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel and reproductive organs. When these muscles weaken or become imbalanced, you may experience symptoms such as urinary leakage, pelvic pain, prolapse or bowel issues.
Surprisingly, pelvic floor dysfunction is common — but it’s definitely not normal. Studies show that one in three women and one in nine men will experience pelvic floor issues at some point. It doesn’t just happen with age or childbirth; it can affect people of all ages and at any stage of life.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can make simple activities like exercising, laughing or even coughing feel uncomfortable or embarrassing. But it is treatable. Current evidence recommends that individualised pelvic floor muscle training by a qualified physiotherapist should be offered as the first-line treatment. Pelvic floor physiotherapy aims to restore muscle function, improve symptoms and help you regain your quality of life. We’ll guide you through a tailored treatment plan that may include specific pelvic floor exercises, lifestyle advice and, if needed, aids or devices to support your symptoms.
While we know pelvic floor muscle training can be highly effective, doing the exercises incorrectly can make symptoms worse. Many people struggle with proper technique, so an individual assessment with a pelvic floor physiotherapist is recommended to ensure you’re performing the exercises correctly for the best results.
Additionally, many people continue to suffer from bothersome symptoms due to a lack of consistency with their pelvic floor muscle training. Staying motivated at home can be difficult — but joining a group class can help. It’s a proven way to stay on track and improve outcomes.
Thanks to the Queensland Government Sport and Recreation ActiveKit Super Round, Women’s Health Physio Mackay now offers twice-weekly, free supervised pelvic floor and abdominal exercise classes for everyone. Our Fit Floor to Core classes are evidence-based and designed to functionally strengthen your pelvic floor in a supportive group setting. All classes are live-streamed and recorded, so you can attend in person, join remotely or watch the sessions in your own time — making them accessible to our wider regional community.
Pelvic floor dysfunction doesn’t have to stop you from enjoying life. With pelvic floor physiotherapy, you can regain control, feel stronger and live your best life. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait — reach out to Women’s Health Physio Mackay today.
Your pelvic health matters — and getting the right help can make all the difference.
Lauren Neill
Women's, Men's and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
Women's Health Physio Mackay
admin@whphysiomackay.com.au
0476 616 324