Pelvic Floor Therapy: How It Works & What It Treats

What It Is

Pelvic floor therapy is specialized physical therapy that addresses dysfunction of the pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support your bladder, uterus/prostate, and rectum. Therapy uses exercises, biofeedback, manual techniques, and education to restore proper function.

Who It Helps

Pelvic floor therapy helps people with urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, painful intercourse, postpartum recovery, prolapse, constipation, and chronic pelvic pain. It treats both men and women.

What to Expect

After a thorough evaluation (which may include internal assessment with consent), your therapist creates a personalized plan. Treatment includes Kegel exercises, biofeedback to visualize muscle activity, manual techniques, and behavioral strategies. Most patients need 6-12 sessions.

Cost Range

Typical Duration

6-12 sessions, 45-60 minutes each

Frequently Asked Questions

What does pelvic floor therapy involve?

Treatment includes targeted exercises, biofeedback (sensors that show muscle activity), manual therapy, breathing techniques, and behavioral strategies. The therapist creates a home exercise program. Treatment is gentle and done at your comfort level.

Is pelvic floor therapy embarrassing?

Pelvic floor therapists are specialized professionals who create a comfortable, private environment. They explain everything before proceeding and always obtain consent. Many patients say it was much less awkward than expected.

How effective is pelvic floor therapy?

Research shows 70-80% of patients with incontinence see significant improvement. For pelvic pain, most patients report reduced symptoms. It is the recommended first-line treatment before considering surgery for many pelvic conditions.

Do men need pelvic floor therapy?

Yes, men benefit from pelvic floor therapy for post-prostatectomy incontinence, chronic pelvic pain, and erectile dysfunction. Male pelvic floor dysfunction is underdiagnosed but very treatable.

How much does pelvic floor therapy cost?

Sessions cost $100-$250. Most insurance covers PT, including pelvic floor. Typical treatment requires 6-12 sessions. OpenMyPro helps you find specialized pelvic floor therapists near you.

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