What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy? A Complete Guide for Women’s Health
Photo Cred @neeksiebeeks
If you’ve ever wondered “What is pelvic floor physical therapy?” you’re not alone. Many women first hear about it during pregnancy or postpartum, or when dealing with challenges like bladder leakage, prolapse, or painful sex. Pelvic floor PT is a specialized branch of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support your bladder, uterus, and bowels.
At Revelle Physical Therapy, we help women across every stage of life—from pregnancy and postpartum recovery to perimenopause and beyond—regain strength, reduce pain, and restore confidence.
What Is Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy?
Pelvic floor physical therapy (PFPT) involves assessment and treatment of the pelvic floor muscles—a hammock of muscles at the base of your pelvis that play a crucial role in bladder, bowel, and sexual health.
A pelvic floor PT can identify whether your muscles are too weak, too tight, or uncoordinated, and create a personalized plan to help them function optimally.
Who Should See a Pelvic Floor PT?
You don’t have to be postpartum to benefit. Women seek pelvic floor PT for many reasons, including:
Endometriosis or interstitial cystitis support
Core weakness or diastasis recti
Perimenopause and menopause changes
Painful intercourse
Pregnancy support and preparation for birth
Postpartum recovery (vaginal or C-section)
Urinary leakage with coughing, sneezing, or running
Pelvic organ prolapse (heaviness, bulging)
Constipation or bowel leakage
And the list doesn’t stop there. These issues are deeply personal, and we understand how hard it can be to talk about them. That’s why we’re here.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
At Revelle, a typical evaluation includes:
Detailed history & goals (pregnancy, birth, symptoms, exercise)
Posture, core, and breathing assessment
Pelvic floor exam (gentle, internal or external, only with your consent)
Personalized plan: hands-on techniques, scar mobility work, breath training, and progressive exercise
How Pelvic Floor PT Helps
Research consistently shows that pelvic floor PT is effective for:
Reducing urinary incontinence during pregnancy & postpartum
Improving pelvic organ support and reducing prolapse symptoms
Resolving pain with intercourse or chronic pelvic pain
Restoring core function for safer return to running and high-impact activities
Why a Pelvic Floor Exam Is Essential
Every woman’s pelvic floor is different. Some need strengthening, others need relaxation and coordination. A pelvic floor exam:
Establishes your baseline (muscle function, scar mobility, coordination)
Identifies hidden trauma (like levator ani avulsion)
Prevents “one-size-fits-all” advice (like endless Kegels)
Guides a plan that’s truly tailored to your body
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
Most women start with an evaluation and 6–8 follow-up visits, though complex cases may need more. The frequency depends on your goals, lifestyle, and how your body responds.
Local Care in Atlanta & Denver
Revelle provides pelvic floor physical therapy in:
Atlanta, GA — clinics in Chamblee and Alpharetta, convenient to Brookhaven, Buckhead, Sandy Springs, and Roswell.
Denver, CO — serving women across the metro area.
👉 Ready to get started? Schedule your consultation today.
FAQs
What does a pelvic floor PT actually do?
A pelvic floor PT evaluates how your muscles coordinate and prescribes targeted exercises, manual therapy, and education to restore healthy function.
Do I need a referral for pelvic floor PT in Georgia or Colorado?
No referral is required for an initial evaluation. Many women come directly to us.
Can pelvic floor therapy help after a C-section?
Yes. Scar tissue, abdominal healing, and pelvic floor changes still benefit from early rehab.
How soon postpartum can I start?
We recommend a baseline exam at 6 weeks postpartum, earlier if you have pain, heaviness, or leakage. Some women can start as early as 2-3 weeks!