Pelvic Floor Dysfunction – When 2 Seek Help
Common Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Hey there, mama (or soon-to-be mama, or maybe just someone wondering what’s up with their pelvic floor)! If you’ve ever sneezed and thought, “Uh-oh,” or felt like something just isn’t right down there, you are not alone. As a pelvic health physical therapist at Rehab 2 Perform—and a mom myself—I know firsthand how important (and often overlooked) pelvic floor health is. So, let’s talk about the signs of pelvic floor dysfunction and when it might be time to get some expert help.
What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?
Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. When these muscles are too weak, too tight, or just not functioning properly, you might start noticing some interesting changes in your body—none of which are fun, trust me!
Common Signs of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Here’s a quick checklist of symptoms that might mean your pelvic floor needs some TLC:
1. Leaking When You Laugh, Cough, or Sneeze
A little pee escaping when you sneeze, jump, or run? It’s super common, but that doesn’t mean it’s normal. Leakage (aka urinary incontinence) is often a sign that your pelvic floor muscles aren’t supporting your bladder like they should.
2. Pelvic Pressure or Heaviness
Ever feel like there is a heavy sensation down there? A dragging or fullness feeling in your pelvic region could be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse (when organs like your bladder or uterus shift downward due to weak pelvic floor muscles).
3. Pain with Intimacy
If sex has become uncomfortable or downright painful, your pelvic floor might be too tight or have trigger points that need some work. Pain is not something you should just “push through.”
4. Frequent Urgency or Trouble Going
Feeling like you always have to pee but then barely anything comes out? Or maybe you have to push really hard to go? Dysfunction in your pelvic floor can lead to issues with bladder and bowel control, making bathroom trips a frustrating experience.
5. Lower Back, Hip, or Tailbone Pain
Your pelvic floor muscles are connected to a whole network of muscles in your core, back, and hips. If they’re weak or not engaging properly, you might experience chronic pain in these areas.
6. Postpartum Weakness or Changes
Whether you had a C-section or vaginal birth, pregnancy and delivery put major stress on your pelvic floor. If you’re struggling with core weakness, lingering pain, or just feeling like your body isn’t bouncing back the way you expected, pelvic floor therapy can help.
So, When Should You Seek Help?
Honestly? If you’re dealing with any of the above and it’s interfering with your daily life, workouts, or confidence, it’s time to take action. Many people assume these issues are just part of aging, pregnancy, or being active—but that’s a myth! You don’t have to live with discomfort, leaks, or pain. Many women are now seeking care proactively during pregnancy or postpartum to prevent a problem before it occurs.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy at Rehab 2 Perform Can Help
At Rehab 2 Perform, we take a proactive, science-backed approach to pelvic health. Our sessions are designed to help you:
- Strengthen or relax your pelvic floor muscles (yes, sometimes they need to relax more than tighten!).
- Improve your core stability and posture.
- Learn proper breathing techniques to support your pelvic floor.
- Get back to your favorite activities—without worrying about leaks, pain, or discomfort.
Ready to Take Control of Your Pelvic Health?
You deserve to feel strong, confident, and in control of your body. If any of these symptoms sound familiar, don’t wait! Schedule an appointment with our pelvic health specialists at Rehab 2 Perform today—because your pelvic floor deserves some love, too!
Book Your Appointment Today
- Dr. Jamie Schindler, DPT, SCS, CSCS, Area Director- Annapolis & Gambrills
About Rehab 2 Perform
Rehab 2 Perform is a leading physical therapy and sports rehabilitation company dedicated to helping clients achieve optimal performance in their daily lives, whether they are athletes, weekend warriors, or individuals recovering from injury. With a team of highly skilled professionals across 11 state-of-the-art locations (soon to be 12), Rehab 2 Perform offers a personalized, evidence-based approach that emphasizes active rehabilitation and functional fitness. Find a Location near you, or Schedule Here.