50 Signs Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Could Help You
Many people assume pelvic floor physical therapy is only for pregnancy or postpartum recovery—but the pelvic floor plays a role in bladder, bowel, core, sexual, and overall body function at every stage of life.
If something feels “off,” uncomfortable, or is limiting your daily activities, pelvic floor physical therapy may help. You don’t need to have all of these signs—or even many of them—for treatment to be beneficial.
Below are 50 common (and often overlooked) signs that pelvic floor physical therapy could support your healing, comfort, and confidence.
Bladder Symptoms
1. Leaking urine when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise
2. Urinary urgency (feeling like you have to go right now)
3. Frequent urination (going “just in case”)
4. Difficulty fully emptying your bladder
5. Pain or discomfort with urination
6. Leaking urine during pregnancy
7. Persistent bladder symptoms postpartum
8. Avoiding activities because of bladder concerns
Bowel Symptoms
9. Constipation or straining with bowel movements
10. Feeling like you can’t fully empty your bowels
11. Pain with bowel movements
12. Fecal urgency or leakage
13. Difficulty controlling gas
14. Bowel changes after pregnancy or surgery
15. Tailbone pain (and can be related to bowel movements)
Pelvic Pain & Pressure
16. Pelvic pain without a clear cause
17. Pain that worsens with sitting
18. Pelvic pressure or heaviness
19. Pain during or after exercise
20. Pain with tampon use or pelvic exams
21. Painful and/or very heavy periods
22. Burning, aching, or sharp pelvic pain
23. Symptoms that fluctuate with stress
24. Pelvic discomfort that hasn’t improved with rest
Sexual Health Concerns
26. Pain with penetration
27. Decreased sexual enjoyment due to discomfort
28. Fear or anxiety around sex because of pain
29. Changes in sensation postpartum or menopause
30. Pain that lingers after intimacy
Pregnancy & Postpartum Signs
31. Pelvic pain during pregnancy
32. Hip, back, or pubic bone pain while pregnant
33. Pain that limits walking, standing, or sleep
34. C-section scar tightness or sensitivity
35. Perineal scar discomfort
36. Abdominal weakness postpartum
37. Difficulty reconnecting with your core after birth
38. Pain or symptoms months (or years) postpartum
Core, Hip & Low Back Issues
39. Chronic low back pain
40. Hip pain that doesn’t resolve
41. Feeling unstable through your core
42. Difficulty engaging your abs
43. Pain with lifting or daily tasks
44. Postural discomfort
Surgical Scars & Recovery
46. Tight or sensitive surgical scars
47. Restricted movement around a C-section scar
48. Pain or pulling near healed incisions
“Something Just Doesn’t Feel Right” Signs
49. You’ve been told your symptoms are “normal,” but they don’t feel normal to you
50. You’re modifying your life around discomfort, leaks, or pain
How Chicago Mama Physical Therapy Can Help
At Chicago Mama Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping women reclaim their strength, comfort, and confidence. Here is how our office stands out:
Dedicated attention for one-on-one sessions that last one hour and you will never be handed off to an aide
Treatment in the privacy and comfort of a tranquil private treatment room rather than a busy physical therapy gym
You will always be seen by the same physical therapist instead of seeing different practitioners each visit
Your therapist is specialized in the field of pelvic health and physical therapy
We will treat you as a whole person looking not only at your pelvic floor but the rest of you with a focus on helping you understand and prioritize your goals
You do not have to live with discomfort — healing is possible.
Next Steps for Healing
Many people suffer in silence with pelvic health issues, thinking they’re a normal part of aging, postpartum recovery, or life changes. The truth is, these conditions are treatable! Pelvic floor therapy can help restore confidence, comfort, and overall well-being.
If you're experiencing any pelvic health concerns, we'd love to talk. Schedule a free discovery call to learn how pelvic floor physical therapy can support your healing journey.If you’re in Barrington, IL or the surrounding Northwest suburbs, visit chicagomamapt.com/contact or call 312.554.5146.