Postpartum Recovery with Pelvic floor Physio: Safe Exercises for Healing Support

At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy in Brisbane, we support new mums as they adjust to the physical and emotional changes following childbirth. Common concerns include pelvic floor weakness, abdominal separation, incontinence, prolapse, and back or hip pain. Emotional fatigue often adds to the challenge as women balance caring for a newborn with their own recovery.

The 6-Week Postpartum Check-Up

A government-recommended 6-week postpartum check-up is an essential step for every new mother. This assessment ensures that recovery is on track, identifies any ongoing issues, and guides safe, personalised exercise programs. Attending this check-up is crucial for addressing symptoms early and tailoring rehabilitation to the individual’s needs.

How Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy Supports Healing

Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides a safe, structured way to rebuild strength after birth. A tailored program may include gentle postnatal workouts to support core recovery without straining healing tissues. Pelvic floor exercise postpartum is central to restoring bladder control, reducing pain and improving stability. Pelvic floor Physios also focus on posture and movement patterns, helping women adjust safely to daily activities like lifting and feeding. Each recovery plan is individualised, ensuring progress matches the body’s pace while reducing the risk of setbacks.

Safe and Effective Postnatal Exercise

A key part of recovery is engaging in exercises that are both safe and effective. A postpartum core workout may start with simple breathing techniques and gentle abdominal activation before progressing to controlled strengthening. Light stretches and mobility work can ease stiffness and improve circulation. As healing continues, more advanced activities are added to restore function. With guidance, women can build strength without compromising recovery, ensuring each stage supports long-term health and resilience.

Restoring Strength with Pelvic Floor Focus

A key part of recovery is learning how to safely activate the pelvic floor. Pelvic floor exercise postpartum helps restore bladder control, reduce discomfort and improve core stability. These exercises involve gentle tightening and releasing of the pelvic muscles, building strength without strain. When guided by a pelvic physiotherapist, they are tailored to your healing stage and specific needs. Over time, this focused approach supports both physical function and overall confidence in daily life.

When and How to Begin Recovery

The ideal time to begin pelvic floor exercises postpartum differs for each woman, but many can start gentle pelvic floor exercise within the first week after birth. Early sessions often assess pelvic floor and abdominal healing before introducing specific movements. Working with a trained pelvic health physio ensures exercises are performed correctly, avoiding strain. Progress is gradual, with regular adjustments based on comfort and outcomes. This structured approach helps women feel confident as they gradually rebuild strength.

Taking Small, Confident Steps Forward

Postpartum recovery is a journey, not a race. With the right support, it’s possible to overcome challenges like bladder leakage or core weakness and feel stronger day by day. Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides reassurance through expert guidance, tailored exercises, and ongoing encouragement—helping you take small, confident steps toward lasting recovery.

Book Your Postpartum Pelvic Physio Consultation Today

Support your healing journey with personalised care at Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Brisbane. Contact us online or call 07 3366 0480 to book your postpartum consultation today.

 

 

Pelvic floor Physiotherapy for Men’s Sexual Dysfunction: An Overlooked Solution

At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy in Brisbane, we know sexual health isn’t always easy to talk about. Issues like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation are more common than most men realise and can take a toll on confidence, relationships, and overall well-being.

Addressing sexual dysfunction often starts with simple, non-invasive strategies: maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, improving sleep, regular exercise, and seeking medical advice when needed. These steps help improve overall physical health, blood flow, and mental wellbeing, all of which support sexual function.

Understanding Sexual Dysfunction in Men

Sexual dysfunction can present in different ways, from difficulties maintaining an erection to problems with control and satisfaction. Beyond the physical challenges, these issues can lower confidence and cause emotional strain. Pelvic floor muscles play a crucial role in sexual function—weakness, tension, or lack of control in this area can contribute directly to erectile difficulties, premature ejaculation, or reduced performance. Recognising the link between pelvic health and sexual wellbeing is key to effective management.

How a Pelvic Floor Physio Can Help

Specialised men’s health physiotherapy complements general recommendations by providing targeted strategies to strengthen and relax the muscles that support blood flow, nerve function, and sexual performance. Improved pelvic floor muscle control can enhance erectile function, increase endurance, and reduce tension, making intimacy more comfortable and confident. Each program is personalised to the individual’s condition, lifestyle, and goals, addressing root causes rather than just masking symptoms.

Benefits of Early Intervention and Support

Seeking help from a men’s health physio early can accelerate recovery and reduce long-term impact. Guided exercises are more effective than attempting self-directed routines, ensuring that correct techniques are followed. Many men also experience a boost in confidence, as improvements extend beyond physical performance to emotional well-being. With consistent care, benefits can be maintained without reliance on medication or invasive procedures. Pelvic floor physiotherapy offers a sustainable and holistic way to restore sexual health naturally.

A Safe and Effective Path Forward

Men’s health Physiotherapy is often overlooked as a solution for sexual dysfunction, yet it provides measurable improvements with minimal risks. By addressing pelvic floor function and supporting overall health, men can achieve better outcomes and regain confidence in daily life. At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Brisbane, our team provides discreet, professional support tailored to individual needs. Early action is key to achieving the best results and preventing symptoms from becoming long-term concerns.

Book a Men’s Health Physio Today

Take the first step toward recovery with expert care at Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Brisbane. Contact us online or call 07 3366 0480 to book your consultation today.

 

Recovery After Prostate Surgery: How Pelvic floor Physiotherapy Supports

At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy in Brisbane, we support men during the important stage of prostate removal recovery or procedures for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Surgery or intervention may be necessary for conditions such as prostate cancer or BPH, but the recovery process can bring challenges. These may include physical limitations and emotional stress. Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides targeted strategies to help men restore function, manage side effects and return to normal routines with more confidence.

Common Prostate Removal After Effects & Challenges

Men often face several hurdles during prostate removal recovery or BPH procedures. Urinary incontinence is one of the most common aftereffects, as the pelvic floor muscles need time to regain strength. Pelvic pain or discomfort can affect daily activities and exercise, limiting movement. Reduced mobility and function may also occur as the body adjusts post-surgery. Alongside these physical issues, the emotional impact can be significant, affecting quality of life and self-esteem. Recognising these challenges early ensures the right support can be provided at every stage.

Role of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy in Recovery

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is a central part of post-prostatectomy care or BHP care. Pelvic floor muscle training helps strengthen muscles that support the bladder, improving control over time. Specific techniques are taught to reduce leaks and restore confidence in daily activities. Pain relief methods and mobility exercises are also included to ease discomfort and improve movement. At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Brisbane, each patient receives a personalised plan tailored to their health needs. This approach ensures every stage of recovery is supported with professional guidance.

What to Expect from Your Recovery Plan

Recovery does not happen overnight, and setting realistic expectations is important. Full recovery may take several months. Early intervention is key in post-prostatectomy care; starting pelvic floor physiotherapy soon after surgery provides the best foundation for progress. During each appointment, our clinicians monitor outcomes, adapt exercises and address concerns to keep recovery on track. By following a structured plan, men can regain independence, manage side effects and improve overall well-being with the right support.

Building Confidence Through Guided Care

Including pelvic floor physiotherapy in a recovery pathway offers clear advantages. By addressing both physical and emotional challenges, men are better equipped to resume work, exercise and social activities. Expert guidance ensures exercises are performed correctly and safely, preventing strain and setbacks. At Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy, we focus on practical outcomes such as improved control, reduced pain and restored mobility. This care helps patients feel supported during a sensitive stage of life, while laying the foundation for long-term health and minimising prostate removal after effects.

Start Your Recovery with Pelvic Physiotherapy

Take control of your prostatectomy recovery or BHP care with personalised care at Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Brisbane. Contact us online or call 07 3366 0480 to book your consultation today.

Pessary fitting Process

What a Pessary Fitting Looks Like ? 

Pessary fitting sounds a bit unfamiliar? Let’s walk through it step by step.

 

In your initial session, you can talk about your medical history and
prolapse-related symptoms, such as bulging or a ‘coming down’ sensation, heaviness or pressure, urine leakage, constipation, and more.

 

During the internal exam, your main issues can be identified, such as prolapse, pelvic floor dysfunction, or pelvic floor tightness or weakness.

Once we’ve confirmed that you have stage 2 or 3 prolapse (generally), we will assess whether you are suitable for a pessary fitting.

This includes checking whether you understand how a pessary works, whether you have any contraindications for using a pessary, and whether you’re able to attend regular follow-up appointments

Once you’re considered suitable for a pessary fitting, we’ll obtain your consent.

This includes understanding the possible side effects, agreeing to a vaginal speculum exam, the pessary fitting itself, and regular follow-up check-ups

 

Before fitting a pessary, we request a vaginal speculum exam from your GP or gynaecologist.

This is an important step to help prevent possible side effects, such as ulceration of the vaginal wall caused by a pessary.

It ensures your vaginal tissue is healthy enough to support the pessary.

It’s also a good opportunity to check whether hormone therapy might be recommended to improve the health of the vaginal wall before the fitting

 

Afterwards, we determine the right pessary type and size for you, depending on your prolapse and how well your pelvic floor supports it

Once you try a pessary, we make sure it stays in place and feels comfortable in daily life.

We check this with activities like coughing, squatting, or going to the toilet.

If it doesn’t feel right, we try other pessary types until we find the best fit.

 

You will be trained in pessary self-management—such as how to insert, remove, and clean it, and when it needs to be removed.

We’ll also set up a plan for regular check-ups, usually every 3–6 months after the initial review.

 

Combining pessary use with regular pelvic floor and core exercises is essential.

This helps strengthen your pelvic floor and can prevent your prolapse from worsening.

Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy offers prolapse care with pessary fittings and individualised exercises, provided by pelvic floor physiotherapists Adela Kang and Jewel Oh

Free Consultation Session for First time Mums ! (May 2025)

Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Clinic is offering a free wellness session to support first time mothers.

This session is perfect for mothers who have recently given birth, from 6 weeks to 1 year postpartum.

In this session, we will provide information on :

– Pelvic Floor Recovery after the childbirth

– The common post partum symptoms and their recovery
(Incontinence, prolapse, abdominal separation, sexual pain etc.)

– Recovery exercise protocols

– Baby’s physical development

 

Location : Garden City Library Upper Mount Gravatt, QLD

Open two times! Select one!

 

Date : 14th May 2025
Time : 12:15pm-1:00 pm

Date : 28th May 2025
Time : 11:45pm-12:30 pm

 

To attend, please book online using the link below.

Booking :

https://pelvic-prime-and-physiotherapy.au4.cliniko.com/bookings#service

Prostate cancer

Understanding Prostate Cancer & the Role of Pelvic Physiotherapy in Recovery

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting men, particularly as they age. Early detection and holistic care—including pelvic physiotherapy—can significantly improve quality of life and long-term outcomes.


How Common Is Prostate Cancer?

  • 📈 By age 80, up to 80% of men may have microscopic evidence of prostate cancer, even without symptoms.

  • 👥 1 in 6 Australian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer by the age of 85.

  • Most cases occur in men aged 65–74.

  • It’s the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men, accounting for 24% of male cancers.


Symptoms of Prostate Cancer

  • In its early stages, prostate cancer often causes no noticeable symptoms.

  • As it progresses, symptoms may include changes in urination, pelvic discomfort, or erectile dysfunction.

  • The risk increases with age, making awareness and proactive health checks essential.


Early Detection Saves Lives

Early detection is key—when caught early, the survival rate is over 95%.
That’s why PSA testing (Prostate Specific Antigen) and regular GP visits are crucial—
especially for:

  • Men over 50 years old

  • Men over 40 with a family history of prostate cancer


Pelvic Physiotherapy for Prostate Cancer Recovery

Pelvic health plays a vital role in recovery, especially after surgery or during hormone and radiation therapy. Physiotherapists trained in men’s health can provide targeted support through each stage of care:

Before & After Prostate Surgery

  • Prehabilitation to strengthen pelvic floor muscles

  • Support during urinary incontinence management with:

    • Pelvic floor muscle training

    • Bladder retraining

    • Fluid intake management

Support for Erectile Dysfunction

  • Blood flow stimulation exercises

  • Pelvic floor retraining to aid erectile function recovery

Pain & Postural Care

  • Releasing pelvic pain and muscle tension

  • Addressing compensatory movement patterns

  • Posture correction and core strengthening to restore confidence and mobility

 


You’re Not Alone

Navigating prostate cancer can be overwhelming, but support is available. Pelvic physiotherapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach to improving recovery, restoring function, and enhancing quality of life.

Pelvic Health for first mums

Supporting Your Pelvic Health for First Mums.

Your Pelvic Floor Support Plan: Pregnancy to Postpartum

Supporting your pelvic floor during pregnancy and after birth is one of the best investments you can make for your long-term health and recovery. This weekly plan is designed to help you stay on track through each critical stage—from preparing for birth to getting back to the activities you love.

25–26 Weeks: Birth Choices Matter

At this stage, it’s time to start learning about your birth options. Understanding different modes of delivery (vaginal birth, caesarean, assisted delivery) and how they may affect your pelvic floor will help you make informed decisions and prepare mentally and physically for the birth experience.

25–30 Weeks: Build Your Foundation

This is the ideal time to start checking in with your pelvic health:

  • Check your pelvic floor muscle function with a pelvic physiotherapist

  • Begin a tailored pelvic floor exercise program based on your specific needs

  • Assess and correct your breathing technique to ensure it supports your core and pelvic  floor. These foundations are crucial for labour, birth, and recovery.


35 Weeks: Get Ready for Birth & Beyond

As you approach full term, shift your focus to both delivery preparation and postnatal planning:

  • Start perineal massage to reduce the risk of tearing

  • Order your postpartum recovery garments like support pants or abdominal binders

  • Learn about the postpartum recovery process, including pelvic floor rehab exercises

Understanding what to expect after birth will help reduce anxiety and set you up for a smoother recovery.


6 Weeks Postpartum: Reconnect & Rebuild

Your 6-week check-up is a key milestone. At this point, it’s time to:

  • Have your pelvic floor and DRAM (abdominal separation) assessed by a pelvic floor physiotherapist

  • Learn how to safely return to pre-pregnancy activities, including high-intensity workouts

  • Continue pelvic floor and core exercises tailored to your stage of healing


Final Thoughts

Every pregnancy and birth is unique. This weekly guide is here to help you stay informed, proactive, and supported throughout your journey. If you’re unsure where to begin, consider booking an appointment with a pelvic health physio to personalize your plan.

Endometriosis Day

World Endometriosis Day :14th of March        

Many women’s suffers from Endometriosis

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Endometriosis is an inflammatory disease where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside of the uterus

 

Endometriosis causes severe pain with period, ovulation, sex and bowel movement & urination.
It causes trouble holding on when you have a full bladder or increased urgency and causes heavy or irregular bleeding.

A research found 14% of women assigned female at birth will be diagnosed with endometriosis by the age 44 to 49.
So, it’s a fairly common issue for women

However, it takes average 6.5 years to be diagnosed with endometriosis.

Therefor, it’s generally difficult to manage the condition effectively.

Once you are diagnosed, there are several typical treatments for endometriosis :
1) Medical treatment (including medication, hormone therapy etc.),
2) Surgical treatment (including removing endometriosis tissues)
3) Aligned treatment (physiotherapy, psychology, diet, alternative medicine etc.)

If you suspect, you have the symptoms of endometriosis,

it is important to visit a health profession especially a gynecologist, for diagnosis and treatment options.

Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy helps for women suffering from endometriosis.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Support for First-Time Mums : Free Consultation of Post Partum Recovery

Free Consultation Session for First-Time Mums!

Pelvic Prime & Physiotherapy Clinic is offering a free wellness session to support first time mothers.

This session is perfect for mothers who have recently given birth, from 6 weeks to 1 year postpartum.

In this session, we will provide information on :

– Pelvic Floor Recovery after the childbirth

– The common post partum symptoms and their recovery
(Incontinence, prolapse, abdominal separation, sexual pain etc.)

– Recovery exercise protocols

– Baby’s physical development

 

Location : Garden City Library Upper Mount Gravatt, QLD

Date : 19th February 2025
Time : 12:15pm-1:00 pm

To attend, please book online using the link below.

Booking :

https://pelvic-prime-and-physiotherapy.au4.cliniko.com/bookings#service

 

How do you know if your pelvic floor is damaged after birth?

What happens during postpartum period?

The postpartum period is a significant transition for new mothers, both physically and emotionally. One crucial aspect often overlooked is pelvic floor health. After childbirth, many women experience changes in their pelvic floor, which can lead to various issues. This guide will help you understand the importance of pelvic floor management and provide practical tips for recovery.


What is Pelvic Floor?

Pelvic floor is not just muscles in pelvic floor.

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. During pregnancy and childbirth, these structures undergo significant stress and stretching. It’s essential to recognize that postpartum recovery involves restoring strength and function to this area.


Why Pelvic Floor recovery is important during the postpartum period?

During the pregnancy and delivery, the hormone relaxin increases, causing the pelvic ligaments and muscles to loosen. This prepares the body for childbirth but can also lead to instability in the pelvic area. As the baby grows, additional weight puts pressure on the pelvic floor, stretching and straining the muscles and tissues.

The delivery process can cause trauma to the perineal area, stretching or pulling the ligaments that support the pelvic organs, potentially leading to an avulsion. Additionally, the nerves in the perineum can become damaged or stretched during childbirth.


The common pelvic floor issues after the delivery

Urinary Incontinence

Urinary incontinence after childbirth can be caused by a combination of physical and hormonal factors related to pregnancy and delivery.

Some of the main causes include:

  • weakness of pelvic floor muscles,damage to nerve ( damage during labor and delivery,
  • particularly from the pressure of the baby’s head on the pelvic nerves or from an epidural) can affect the ability to control urination.
  • Hormonal change :After childbirth, hormonal shifts can affect bladder function. For instance, the hormone relaxin, which helps the body prepare for childbirth, can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, making them less effective in supporting the bladder
  • Birth Trauma or Tears
    Etc.

 


Prolapse

 

  • Post-delivery prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs (such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum) drop or bulge into the vaginal canal
    due to weakened pelvic floor muscles.
  • The symptoms of prolapse after childbirth can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the specific organ involved, but common symptoms include  a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region and vaginal bulging or a visible lump
  • These symptoms may worsen over time, especially in the afternoon or evening

 

Pelvic Pain 

 

Pelvic pain after delivery can occur for various reasons related to the physical changes and stresses that occur during pregnancy and childbirth.
The symptoms of pelvic pain after delivery can vary in intensity and duration, and can affect different areas of the pelvis.
Localized pain in the Pelvic Area  – pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, near the pubic bone, or between the hips.
This pain can be sharp, aching, or throbbing.
Certain movements, like standing up from a sitting position, walking, or climbing stairs, may aggravate pelvic pain.
This can be caused by muscle strain, ligament relaxation, or residual issues from childbirth.

 

 

Sexual pain   

Many women experience pain during or after intercourse following childbirth, which may result from vaginal tears, scarring, pelvic floor muscle weakness, or tension.

During vaginal delivery, the perineum (the area between the vagina and anus) may tear or an episiotomy (a surgical cut) may be made to help with the delivery

The muscles of the pelvic floor support the bladder, uterus, and other pelvic organs.
These muscles stretch significantly during delivery, and in some cases, they may weaken or become dysfunctional.
This can lead to vaginal dryness, a feeling of looseness, or even pelvic organ prolapse. Such changes can contribute to pain during intercourse.

After childbirth, hormonal shifts, particularly a decrease in estrogen levels, can affect vaginal lubrication and elasticity.
This can lead to vaginal dryness, making sex uncomfortable or painful. Estrogen levels often take time to return to normal,
particularly if a woman is breastfeeding.
Emotional feeding and emotional issues can cause sexual pain as well

DRAM ( Diastasis)

 

Diastasis Recti Abdominis (DRAM) means the separation of the two halves of the rectus abdominis muscle, often occurring during or after pregnancy.
Common symptoms include:

  • Visible bulge or Pooch
  • Weakness or decreased core strength causing back pain or difficulty with movements
  • Postural change : DRAM tends to lead to poor posture because the abdominal muscles can no longer provide optimal support for the spine

 


How Do I know if My pelvic floor is damaged after the delivery?

Assessment with a Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist: A specialized therapist can perform a thorough assessment, including an internal exam if appropriate. They will evaluate muscle tone, strength, endurance and coordination.

Self Assessment : check if you have urinary incontinence symptoms. especially with physical activities which give you strong pressure on lower abdomen like laughing, jumping and running. Check if you have heaviness or discomfort or pain on your perineum area.


How long does it take for the pelvic floor recovery?

We generally expect that six weeks postpartum is the right time for recovery following delivery. Most women can regain normal pelvic floor function after injuries related to childbirth. However, recovery can vary depending on factors such as the conditions of the pregnancy, the type of delivery, and any trauma experienced during pregnancy and deliver.


What kinds of exercise will be helpful for pelvic floor recovery?

(Source : Return to exercise post pregnancy, Philipp Inge   Jessica J Orchard   Rosie Purdue   John W Orchard, 2022), doi: 10.31128/AJGP-09-21-6181
Link :Exercise after pregnancy (RACGP)
https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2022/march/exercise-after-pregnancy