Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy for Constipation
Constipation can be frustrating, uncomfortable, and disruptive to daily life. Pelvic floor physical therapy helps address coordination and muscle-related contributors to constipation so bowel movements feel easier and more complete. While diet and hydration matter, constipation is often influenced by how the pelvic floor muscles work during bowel movements.
Is this you?
Constipation can show up in different ways. You might:
Strain or push during bowel movements
Feel like you can’t fully empty
Go several days without a bowel movement
Experience pelvic, rectal, or abdominal discomfort
Notice symptoms that started during or after pregnancy
If any of this sounds familiar, pelvic floor physical therapy may help.
Why constipation happens
Constipation isn’t always caused by food or fiber intake. In many cases, the pelvic floor muscles are not coordinating efficiently during bowel movements—either staying too tense or not relaxing when needed.
Posture, breathing patterns, prior injury, pregnancy, and habitual straining can all contribute to these patterns over time.
Pelvic floor physical therapy focuses on improving coordination and reducing unnecessary tension—not forcing the body to work harder.
How pelvic floor physical therapy helps
Pelvic floor PT for constipation may include:
One-on-one assessment of pelvic floor function and coordination
Education on breathing and toileting mechanics
Strategies to reduce straining and improve relaxation
Manual therapy as appropriate (always discussed first)
Guidance to support long-term bowel habits
Care is individualized and focused on comfort, not embarrassment.
What care looks like at Revelle
Private, 1:1 sessions with a pelvic floor physical therapist
A calm, supportive environment for sensitive concerns
Personalized treatment plans—no cookie-cutter approaches
Manual therapy-based treatment sessions
Internal exams are never required and are only performed with your consent if relevant.
Common questions
Is constipation always a pelvic floor issue?
No. Constipation can have many contributors, but pelvic floor dysfunction is a common and often overlooked factor.
Can pelvic floor PT help if I’ve had constipation for years?
Yes. Many people see improvement once coordination and tension are addressed.
Will PT replace dietary or medical treatment?
Pelvic floor PT complements other care and focuses on the musculoskeletal and movement-related aspects of bowel function.
Ready to take the next step?
Revelle Physical Therapy offers pelvic floor physical therapy for women at our clinics in Atlanta (including Alpharetta & Chamblee) and Denver.