Constipation is a common problem that many people face. It can cause discomfort, bloating, and even pain. For some people, the cause of constipation is related to the pelvic floor muscles, which help control bowel movements. Pelvic floor therapy can be an effective treatment for constipation caused by weak or tight pelvic floor muscles.
In this article, we’ll explain what pelvic floor therapy is, how it helps with constipation, and what you can expect if you try it.
What is Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy that focuses on strengthening and relaxing the muscles of the pelvic floor. These muscles support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. When these muscles do not work properly, they can cause problems with bowel movements, such as constipation.
Pelvic floor therapy includes different treatments, such as:
- Manual Therapy: This involves hands-on techniques to help relax or strengthen the pelvic muscles.
- Biofeedback: This helps you learn how to control your pelvic floor muscles by giving you feedback on how your muscles are working.
- Exercises: Specific exercises, like pelvic floor stretches or strengthening moves, can help improve muscle function.
How Does Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Cause Constipation?
Pelvic floor dysfunction happens when the muscles in your pelvic area are too weak or too tight. When these muscles don’t work properly, they can affect how your body controls bowel movements. If the muscles are too tight, it can be hard to fully relax during a bowel movement, making it difficult to pass stool. If the muscles are weak, they may not be able to help move stool through the body effectively.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common cause of chronic constipation. Other factors that can contribute include:
- Pregnancy and childbirth: The muscles may be stretched or weakened.
- Aging: As we get older, our muscles naturally weaken.
- Neurological conditions: Some diseases can affect the nerves that control the pelvic floor.
How Pelvic Floor Therapy Helps with Constipation
Pelvic floor therapy can help relieve constipation by retraining the pelvic muscles. Here’s how it works:
- Improves Muscle Coordination: One key goal of pelvic floor therapy is to help you learn how to relax and contract the pelvic floor muscles properly. This allows you to have better control during a bowel movement.
- Strengthens the Pelvic Floor: Therapy can also strengthen weak muscles, making them more effective at supporting the bowel and helping stool move through the body.
- Biofeedback and Relaxation: Through biofeedback, you’ll be able to see when your pelvic floor muscles are tense and learn how to relax them. Relaxing the muscles can help ease constipation and make bowel movements easier.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy for Constipation
There are several benefits to using pelvic floor therapy for constipation:
- Relieves Chronic Constipation: Many people with chronic constipation see improvements after pelvic floor therapy. It helps the muscles work better and allows for easier, more regular bowel movements.
- Non-invasive Treatment: Unlike surgery or medication, pelvic floor therapy is a non-invasive treatment. It does not involve taking any pills or undergoing surgery.
- Improves Quality of Life: Regular bowel movements and less discomfort can lead to a better overall quality of life. People who undergo pelvic floor therapy often report feeling more comfortable and less bloated.
What to Expect During Pelvic Floor Therapy for Constipation
If you decide to try pelvic floor therapy for constipation, here’s what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation: During your first visit, the therapist will ask about your medical history and your constipation symptoms. They may ask you to describe when you started experiencing constipation and whether there are other problems, like pain or bloating.
- Assessment: The therapist may conduct a physical exam to assess the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles. They might use biofeedback to help you understand how well your muscles are working.
- Personalized Treatment Plan: After assessing your pelvic floor, the therapist will create a treatment plan that fits your specific needs. This plan may include exercises, manual therapy, and biofeedback training.
- Ongoing Sessions: Most people need multiple sessions to see improvement. Each session may last about 30 to 60 minutes. Your therapist will teach you exercises to do at home to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles and improve your bowel movements.
- At-Home Exercises: In addition to the therapy sessions, your therapist will give you exercises to do at home. These exercises will help you practice what you learned during your sessions and speed up your recovery.
When Should You Consider Pelvic Floor Therapy?
Pelvic floor therapy can be helpful for people who experience constipation that doesn’t improve with diet changes or over-the-counter medication. You might want to consider pelvic floor therapy if:
- You frequently experience constipation or straining during bowel movements.
- You have a sensation of incomplete bowel movements.
- You feel bloated or have abdominal pain after meals.
- You’ve been diagnosed with pelvic floor dysfunction.
Pelvic floor therapy can benefit anyone who struggles with constipation due to muscle weakness or tension. It is especially helpful for women who have recently given birth or people over the age of 50 who experience age-related muscle weakness.
Alternative Treatments for Constipation
While pelvic floor therapy is effective for many people, it’s not the only treatment for constipation. Other options include:
- Dietary Changes: Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, and adding probiotics to your diet can help improve bowel regularity.
- Medications: Laxatives or stool softeners may provide relief for short-term constipation.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve digestion and reduce constipation.
How to Get Started with Pelvic Floor Therapy
If you’re interested in pelvic floor therapy, here’s how to get started:
- Find a Specialist: Look for a licensed pelvic floor therapist or a physical therapist who specializes in pelvic health. You can ask your doctor for a referral or search for a therapist in your area.
- Check Insurance: Many insurance plans cover pelvic floor therapy, but it’s important to check with your provider to see if you’re covered.
- Ask Questions: Before starting therapy, don’t hesitate to ask your therapist about what to expect. They can explain how the therapy works and answer any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Pelvic floor therapy is a proven, non-invasive treatment for constipation, especially when the cause is related to pelvic floor dysfunction. It can help relieve chronic constipation, improve muscle coordination, and make bowel movements easier.
If you struggle with constipation and haven’t found relief through other methods, pelvic floor therapy could be a great option for you. To get started, consult with a licensed therapist and take the first step toward better digestive health.
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