ExplorePelvic & period health
Pelvic floor problems
The pelvic floor can be too weak, too tight, or uncoordinated. Pelvic health physiotherapy helps a large proportion of people, including pain with sex and leaking.
Common symptoms
- Leaking with cough, laugh or exercise
- Heaviness or bulging in the vagina
- Pain with tampons, examinations or sex
- Feeling you cannot empty your bladder or bowel fully
Useful to track
- Leak events and triggers
- Pain with insertion
- Bowel habit
- Whether symptoms worsen late in the day
Tests and conversations that may be relevant
- Assessment by a GP and a pelvic health physiotherapist
- Urine test to exclude infection
When to see a GP or specialist
- Any of the above — these are very treatable
- After birth, if symptoms persist past 6 weeks
Urgent warning signs
- Sudden inability to pass urine
- New numbness in the saddle area or new bowel incontinence
In Australia, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
Questions to take to a clinician
- Can you refer me to a pelvic health physiotherapist?
- Is my pelvic floor overactive or weak?
- What can I safely do at home in the meantime?
Related
eophi shares general information reviewed against Australian guidance. It never diagnoses. If something feels urgent, call 000 or healthdirect on 1800 022 222.