It’s very common to hear “I leak a little when I sneeze, cough, laugh or run, but I had a kid a few years ago and I’ve heard this is normal” or “I have started wearing panty liners all the time now because I leak, but it’s a normal process of aging”. I am here to tell you that although it may be considered common, It’s most definitely not normal in either situation! The embarrassment and avoidance patterns to participate in functions outside of one’s house can weigh heavy on quality of life when dealing with any type of incontinence. If this sounds like you, I’m here to help! As a Pelvic Floor PT (PFPT) I specialize in treating the muscles that support your bladder, bowel and sexual health.
Patients and friends will tell me that their doctors have told them to “do your Kegels” without an explanation of what or how to perform this exercise correctly. Or their doctors have told them to “have a glass of wine” to relax, “It’ll make sex less painful”. I will not only teach you how to do a proper Kegel but also determine if that exercise is right for YOU! In some cases, strengthening the muscles at the base of your pelvis (your pelvic floor) is indicated, but in other cases that could make the problem worse! Just like any other part of the body muscles can become weak, which would indicate the need for strengthening (Kegels), or they are too tight and cannot lengthen properly. If the pelvic floor muscles are too tight that can lead to pain during sex or any insertional activities (tampons or gynecological exams). As a PFPT I can help provide ways to lengthen or stretch the muscles to allow them to relax which will lead to decreased pain.
As a PFPT, and a woman in her early 30’s there are a lot of people surrounding me who either have had babies recently, are currently pregnant, or are early post-partum. I will often hear “I cannot wait to have my body back” or “when can I start doing xyz?” Along with the emotional (and hormonal) fluctuations that occur, this is a miraculous journey that comes with a wide variety of changes in a woman’s body. Making sure your body is healing properly after delivery whether it be a cesarean section or vaginal delivery, is imperative in returning to desired activities. I can help facilitate and troubleshoot any issues both during pregnancy and post-partum.
To schedule your appointment with Morgan please contact our Portland office at (207) 797-7578
