C is for . . . The ABC's of Pelvic Health

Mar 09, 2023

Cystocele, caesarean & clitorodynia all start with the letter C and are all related to pelvic health. 

Cystocele


Cystocele, also known as a prolapsed bladder, is a condition that occurs when the wall of the bladder weakens and bulges into the front wall of the vagina. 


This can happen due to childbirth, menopause, or other factors that put pressure on the pelvic floor muscles. 


As a result, women may experience discomfort or pain in the pelvic region, urinary incontinence, or difficulty emptying the bladder completely. 
A pelvic health physio can play an important role in the management of cystocele. The physio will assess the strength and function of the pelvic floor muscles and develop a treatment plan based on the individual's specific needs. Treatment options may include pelvic floor muscle exercises, biofeedback, electrical stimulation, lifestyle changes and/or a pessary.

Caesarian  or C-Section


A pelvic health physiotherapist can treat a C-section scar using a variety of techniques. Some of the most common methods include scar massage, stretching exercises, myofascial release, trigger point release, education and advice. 


A pelvic health physio plays an important role in the recovery process after a c-section, helping alleviate pain and discomfort, improve mobility, and promote healing of the scar tissue.

Clitorodynia


Clitorodynia is a condition characterized by chronic pain in the vulvar region, specifically the vestibule, which is the area surrounding the entrance to the vagina.


The pain associated with clitorodynia can be described as burning, stinging, itching, or rawness, and can occur during sexual activity or any kind of pressure applied to the vulvar region, such as sitting or wearing tight clothing.


Treatment strategies may include pelvic floor muscle relaxation exercises, pelvic floor muscle strengthening exercises, manual therapy, biofeedback, education and advice.


More from the blog

By Kylie Conway 26 Dec, 2023
Jaw, jumping and jellyfish all start with the letter J and are all related to pelvic health. How can we help?
By Kylie Conway 18 Dec, 2023
There are so many wonderful elements experienced during pregnancy and we do our best to be healthy throughout. We remember to take our prenatal vitamins to ensure our body and bub are getting enough of what's needed. We stay clear of certain foods to avoid infections. We keep our body active by exercising but we don't always remember to care for our pelvic floor. During pregnancy, muscles of your pelvic floor are stretched and weaken. These muscles help to control your bladder. When your pelvic floor muscles are weak, they can't always stop your bladder from leaking. This leaking happens mostly when you cough, laugh, sneeze, lift or exercise. You may also find holding in a wee difficult, like when putting a key in the front door, suddenly the urge is greater. By performing pelvic floor exercises, you can strengthen the muscles. Pelvic floor muscle training will assist the body to cope with the growing weight of the baby. Stronger muscles before bub is born will help to reduce or avoid stress incontinence after pregnancy. It's never too early to start doing pelvic floor exercises, but the earlier and more regularly you practice them throughout pregnancy, the greater the benefits. If you're unsure if you're performing pelvic floor exercises correctly or would like some guidance, we can help!
By Kylie Conway 11 Dec, 2023
Incontinence, intimacy pain and initial appointment all start with the letter I and are all related to pelvic health. How can we help?
By Kylie Conway 05 Dec, 2023
How can I prevent getting an UTI after sex?
Share by: