Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Two Truths and a Lie

Have you ever found yourself wondering if something you are experiencing is normal?

Maybe you noticed that, after having a baby, you suddenly pee yourself a little when coughing, laughing, sneezing, or exercising. And at first that was probably a bit concerning, but then someone told you that it was normal and you should just learn to live with it. Well guess what? Normal and common are two very different things. You know that game Two Truths and a Lie? Let’s have some fun and see if we can identify the truths against the most common misunderstanding of pelvic floor dysfunction that we as therapists encounter on a daily basis while treating and educating patients.

Let’s start with the following statement: it is normal to live with pelvic floor dysfunction after pregnancy. Truth or lie? You probably guessed it from above, but this one is a misconception. It may be common as your body has gone through a major physical transformation having your baby, but it’s certainly not normal. Normal implies that whatever you are experiencing is the price you pay for having been pregnant, and I am here to tell you that is not the case. Pregnancy is a superpower, not a punishment. Do not let anyone convince you that what you are experiencing is normal or that you have to live with a decreased quality of life as a result. As a mama of four, a miscarriage mama, an IVF mama, a twin mama, and a cesarean mama, I have been told by doctors, friends, family and complete strangers that it’s normal for me to experience a host of pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms. As a pelvic health professional, I’m here to dispel that myth for my fellow mamas of the world, starting with you!

This statement about normalcy applies not only to pregnancy, but to any major event in your life that can affect you physically, such as menopause, abdominal or pelvic surgery, hormone changes, battling cancer, gender affirming surgery, surviving a trauma, an injury to the pelvis/back/hip and gut and bowel health changes. There is such a huge misconception that when you experience any of these, you have to live with whatever symptoms or side effects you might encounter as a result. That is a lie. It is not normal and you don’t have to live with it.

Now let’s talk truths.

The first truth is that pelvic health conditions are common. As many as 40% of women experience pelvic pain or pelvic health issues. Half of mothers experience incontinence after delivery. Many pelvic health conditions and dysfunctions are prevalent as a result of physical or hormonal changes. That is why you may see things listed as: “common side effects” or “common changes as a result of…” but nothing says “normal side effects.” Normal is defined as “usual, average, or a typical condition”. Incontinence, prolapse, pain with sex, (excessive) scar tissue from surgery, etc., are not average or typical and can significantly impact your quality of life. So, while you may find comfort in knowing that what you are experiencing is common, don’t let yourself fall into the belief that it is normal. Normal implies that you should live with it and suffer in silence, and that is not the case. If pelvic floor dysfunction is a problem for you, or effects your quality of life, you absolutely should seek help.

Now for the final truth and good news: whatever you are experiencing is treatable! That’s right, we can treat your pelvic health symptoms or conditions and get you back to feeling like your best and most functional self. The age of “we don’t talk about those things” from previous generations has come and gone and now we are shouting pelvic health from the rooftops! Yes, your condition is treatable. Yes, you can seek help. Yes, you can ask questions. Yes, you deserve the best and most comprehensive care. And better yet, you don’t need a referral! Pelvic Health Physical Therapists are trained Doctors of Physical Therapy and often have received additional certifications as pelvic rehab practitioners. You have direct access to the help that you need and you absolutely should seek it.

“You can’t pour from an empty cup”

One of my favorite sayings is “you can’t pour from an empty cup” and I believe it especially applies to pelvic health. You cannot be the best version of yourself if you are unwell and your needs have not been met. Especially as mothers, we often put our own needs on the back burner and don’t make time to take care of ourselves. I can tell you from experience that when you aren’t at your best, you can’t be the best for anyone else in your life. Not your kids, not your partner, not your family. When your physical quality of life is higher and you are functioning at your best, you will also function better in adjacent areas in your life. So start by filling your own cup. Address the issues you’re facing now and don’t wait for the “right time” because that time will most likely never come.

While there are common pelvic health conditions, there is no normal pelvic health dysfunction. Treatment is available for anyone who needs it, if they have the knowledge that it is exists. As a woman, a mama and a pelvic health specialist, my passion has evolved into educating and advocating for quality pelvic healthcare for all persons because no one should suffer in silence. If you are unsure about your symptoms or condition, please reach out to a qualified pelvic health physical therapist today. We are eager to help and want you to live well and thrive.

Take care of you mama, because you matter.