Does a physiotherapy perform pelvic floor exercises?

The pelvic floor supports the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs. During an assessment, a physiotherapist may ask about leakage, urgency, pelvic pressure, bowel control, sexual discomfort, pain, pregnancy, or surgery. They may observe breathing and movement and, with your consent, offer an internal assessment. Exercise is not always about squeezing harder: some people need strength, while others need release, lengthening, or better timing. A personalised programme can include contractions, relaxation, breathing, posture, and functional practice such as lifting or coughing.

Learn the technique before increasing repetitions. Keep your abdomen, buttocks, and thighs relaxed unless your clinician gives a specific reason to use them. Breathe normally rather than holding your breath. Practise in the position recommended, then apply the contraction during activities that trigger symptoms. Do not repeatedly practise by stopping urine midstream, because that can interfere with normal emptying. Tell the physiotherapist if exercises increase pelvic pain, pressure, difficulty emptying, or sexual discomfort.

Arrange medical review for new blood in urine or stool, fever, unexplained bleeding, a new pelvic mass, inability to empty the bladder, or severe or rapidly worsening pain. A physiotherapy assessment is not a substitute for urgent care after a serious injury or sudden neurological change. Persistent leakage despite practice also deserves review so the cause and treatment can be reconsidered.

Ask which pelvic floor action suits your symptoms, how often to practise, and how to recognise over-tightening. Ask whether an internal assessment is appropriate, how progress will be checked, and whether bladder, bowel, or pain care should be included.