How can Physiotherapy help Women’s Health?
Around one in three women over 40 have stress incontinence and around one in ten women aged between ages 20 to 24 are also affected. Urinary incontinence is any involuntary leaking of urine which can be very upsetting for many women who may find it difficult to go our socially or join in physical exercise without the fear of an accident. Some women find it difficult to discuss their symptoms with a doctor but if it is left untreated, it can increase the chance of infections. Years down the line women’s lives can be dominated by bladder problems causing low self esteem, lack of confidence and even depression.
There are many reasons that lead to the loss of bladder control, but the most common cause is weak pelvic floor muscles. Most women say they first notice bladder problems during their first pregnancy, which can worsen after future pregnancies and vaginal deliveries. NICE guidelines recommend physiotherapy as the first treatment option for bladder incontinence. Physiotherapy focuses on eliminating the symptoms of incontinence, urinary urgency and an over active bladder. This is done through the correct education of pelvic floor muscle training, breathing coordination and advice on fluid intake, bowel control and exercise programmes.