Endometriosis: It is more than just period pain

When you hear “endometriosis,” what comes to mind? If you said painful periods, you’re not wrong—but that’s not even the full picture. As a physical therapist, I see firsthand how this condition impacts the whole body, not just the reproductive system. So, let’s break it down and talk about what’s really going on, why it’s …

Vulvar and Vaginal Rejuvenation with CO2 Lasers: Concerns You Should Know

Have you heard about feminine rejuvenation? Or, maybe Mona Lisa? What about Femilift?  All of these procedures refer to the use of fractional carbon dioxide lasers being used for treatment of vulvar and vaginal issues. Often times, you hear it being referred to a “rejuvenation” of these tissues. This procedure is often marketed towards cancer …

Let’s Talk About PCOS: What It Is and How to Manage It

September is PCOS awareness month and I wanted to chat with you about something that between 8-13% of women deal with but don’t always talk about—Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS. If you’ve ever heard of it or even been diagnosed with it, you know it can be a bit overwhelming. But don’t worry, I’m here …

Pubic Symphysis Pain

What is Pubic Symphysis Pain? The pubic symphysis is a joint located at the front of the pelvis, where the left and right pubic bones meet. Pain at this location is sometimes referred to as symphysis pubic dysfunction (SPD) or pelvic girdle pain (PGP). PGP is a more general term general and can refer to …

Understanding Fibroids: Symptoms and Management

Background Information Fibroids are benign tumors that grow in or on the uterus. While they are generally benign, they can cause significant discomfort and complications for many women. Fibroids are composed of muscle and fibrous tissue and can vary greatly in size. Some are microscopic, while others can grow large enough to distort the uterus. …

Understanding Diastasis Recti In Pregnancy & Postpartum 

Diastasis Recti (DRA), often referred to as abdominal separation, is a condition common in pregnant women and can also occur in men and infants. It’s characterized by the stretching or thinning of the connective tissue between the rectus abdominis muscles, causing the abdomen to protrude or even sink in towards the center. While it is …

Vaginismus: How to Overcome

Somewhere between 5-17% of women are impacted with vaginismus in the United States. Women who complain of vaginismus related symptoms have pain and/or anxiety with penetration at the vaginal region. There are some women who experience vaginismus in response to an event that may or may not be traumatic. Other women experience vaginismus without any …

Exploring the impact of Hormones on Pelvic Floor Health

The human body is a complex symphony of interconnected systems, each playing a vital role in maintaining overall health. Among these intricate systems, the endocrine system stands out as the conductor, orchestrating the release of hormones that regulate various bodily functions. One often-overlooked area influenced by these hormonal fluctuations is the pelvic floor. In this …

Push Back Against Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a topic that we have started hearing more about the past few years. Unfortunately, most of this information is causing fear and worry. Because of this, we want to ensure that we are taking the time to educate on POP and providing information that is useful in helping you navigate …

The Role of Physical Therapy in Supporting Breastfeeding Moms

Both the World Health Organization and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend that breastfeeding occur for at least the first 2 years of life. For the first, 6 months of life exclusive breastfeeding is recommended prior to the introduction of solid foods. Unfortunately, a lot of women cease their breastfeeding journey prior to the 6 month …