Pelvic, Bladder, Anal and Sexual Pain
Pain affecting the pelvic region can be complex and distressing. Pelvic, bladder, anal, and sexual pain may interfere with daily activities, relationships, exercise, and overall quality of life. These symptoms are common but often misunderstood, and many people are told that pain is something they must simply learn to live with.
Conditions Associated with Pelvic Pain
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can support the management of several pelvic pain conditions, including:
Interstitial cystitis (IC) / Bladder pain syndrome
Endometriosis and Adenomyosis
Painful bladder or urinary urgency with pelvic pain
Pain that results after repeated / recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) and STD/STI
Dyspareunia (deep or superficial pain during sexual activity)
Vaginismus, vulvodynia or pelvic floor muscle overactivity
Anal fissures and persistent anal pain
Pelvic floor muscle tension or spasm
Pain after pelvic or abdominal surgery (including caesarean)
Persistent postpartum pelvic pain
Physiotherapy does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment but plays an important role in addressing the musculoskeletal and functional components of pelvic pain.
How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Can Help
Pelvic pain is often associated with pelvic floor muscle overactivity, poor coordination, altered breathing patterns, or changes in the nervous system's sensitivity to pain. Physiotherapy aims to address these contributing factors.
Treatment may include:
Pelvic Floor Muscle Relaxation and Coordination
Techniques to reduce muscle tension, improve flexibility, and restore normal pelvic floor muscle function.
Pain Management Strategies
Education about pain mechanisms and strategies to help calm the nervous system and reduce symptom flare-ups.
Bladder and Bowel Management
Guidance to support healthy bladder and bowel habits that reduce strain and irritation of pelvic tissues.
Gradual Return to Activity
Support for returning to exercise, work, and daily activities safely and confidently.
Alina has a strong passion for research and pelvic health. With over 14 years of experience in clinical practice, she is excited to bring up-to-date specialised care to Townsville.
“In a patient centred care approach it is crucial to work with other professionals such as GPs, Gynaecologists, Obstetricians, Colorectal Surgeons, Dieticians, Psychologists, Psychiatrists, Personal Trainers, Sexologists and other health and complementary medicine professionals.”
