Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy & Bowel Symptoms
Changes in bowel function are more common than many people realise, yet they can be difficult to talk about. Whether it’s constipation, urgency, or accidental leakage, these symptoms can affect comfort, confidence, and daily routines.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides a safe, supportive space to explore what’s going on and why. By understanding how the bowel and pelvic floor muscles work together, and learning practical tools and techniques, many people find real and lasting relief.
Constipation
Constipation involves infrequent, hard, or difficult-to-pass bowel movements, and may also include straining, bloating, or the sensation of incomplete emptying. Over time, constipation can place pressure on the pelvic floor and affect bladder function too.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help by teaching how to relax the pelvic floor muscles during bowel movements, which is especially helpful if there’s a pattern of straining or withholding. We also offer guidance on positioning on the toilet, breathing techniques, and developing healthy bowel habits that support regular, comfortable emptying.
Bowel Urgency
Bowel urgency is the sudden, strong need to have a bowel movement, sometimes with little warning or time to find a toilet. This can be stressful and may lead to anxiety about leaving the house or being in unfamiliar places.
Through pelvic floor physiotherapy, we can help reduce urgency by strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, improving awareness and control, and teaching techniques to help delay the need to empty the bowel. We also explore lifestyle factors, such as diet, fluid intake, and routine, that may be contributing to symptoms.
Bowel Leakage
Bowel leakage is the unintentional loss of stool or wind. It may be occasional or more frequent, and can range from small staining to full loss of control. This can be very upsetting for people. These symptoms can occur for a variety of reasons, such as weakened pelvic floor muscles, nerve changes, surgery, or long-standing constipation.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help by strengthening and improving the coordination of the muscles around the back passage. We also work with you to better understand your bowel signals, support healthy bowel habits, build confidence in responding to urges, timing bathroom visits, and managing any contributing factors such as constipation or urgency. With a tailored and compassionate approach, we can help you improve your symptoms.
