Overactive Pelvic Floor Muscles (PFM)
If you’re experiencing generalised pelvic, vaginal or rectal pain; tailbone pain; urinary frequency; or other similar symptoms, then it is a good idea to have yourself checked for overactive pelvic floor muscles.
What causes overactive pelvic floor muscles?
Just like other muscles in the body, the pelvic floor can also become overactive and/or tense. This is typically caused by weak glutes, postural changes, chronic stress, previous traumatic experience, overactive abdominal muscles, or a combination of two or more of these factors.
What are the symptoms of overactive pelvic floor muscles?
The most common symptoms of overactive pelvic floor muscles are:
- Generalised pain in the pelvic, vaginal, and/or rectal area
- Inability to have penetrative intercourse or experience pain during/after intercourse
- Tailbone pain
- Erectile dysfunction
- Anorgasmia (difficulty achieving orgasm or absent orgasms)
- Increased urinary frequency
- Inability to effectively empty bladder or bowel
- Hip and pelvic girdle pain
How are overactive pelvic floor muscles treated?
Our physiotherapists here at Sydney Pelvic Clinic will perform a thorough pelvic floor examination to identify muscles that are overactive and help you understand the cause.
A whole body approach will be adopted to investigate contributing factors to your overactive muscles. This will involve a discussion around your emotional health and physical health to inform your individualised management plan. Your management plan will consist of a combination of targeted manual therapies, home exercise program, therapeutic yoga and breathing and/or meditation activities.
