What is Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?
When most patients first walk into my office, they’re hesitant. They avoid eye contact, their voices soft. They wonder if it’s okay to talk about things like bladder leaks, painful periods, or even discomfort during intimacy. It’s not the kind of thing you casually chat about, right? But here’s the truth: these conversations are not just okay—they’re necessary.
What you’re experiencing may be common, but it’s not normal. You don’t have to accept discomfort, pain, or embarrassment as part of your everyday life. And you’re not alone. Physical Therapy can help—without the need for medication or surgery—so you can get back to what you love.
Once we break the ice, something beautiful happens. My patients start to open up. They share their frustrations, their struggles, and the toll it’s taken on their lives—whether it’s missing workouts, struggling to care for their families, or feeling disconnected from themselves. Sometimes, there are tears. But what follows is a sense of hope and determination. Together, we create a plan tailored to their goals and dreams.
What Is Pelvic Health Physical Therapy?
Your pelvic floor is more than just a group of muscles. It’s your foundation for stability, organ support, continence, and sexual function. When these muscles aren’t working as they should, it can impact your daily life in ways you never imagined.
Did you know? 1 in every 3 women will develop pelvic floor dysfunction in their lifetime.
While it is very common, it’s certainly not normal and not something that you have to live with.
Symptoms include:
Leaking urine when you sneeze, cough, or laugh.
Constantly feeling like you “have to go.”
Pain during intercourse or tampon use.
Pelvic or low back pain.
A heavy or full feeling in your pelvis.
The good news? These issues are treatable, and you don’t have to live with them.
Pelvic Health Physical Therapy: Supporting You Before and After Pregnancy
Pregnancy and childbirth are transformative—beautiful, yes, but also physically demanding.
Prenatal Care: During pregnancy, your body undergoes incredible changes. Pelvic health physical therapy can help prepare you for these changes with exercises, hands-on techniques, and education. We can ease discomfort, improve muscle function, and set you up for a smoother labor and recovery.
Postpartum Recovery: After delivery, many women face challenges like incontinence, pelvic pain, or diastasis recti (abdominal separation). Physical therapy helps rebuild strength, promote healing, and restore confidence.
Why Choose Us for Pelvic Health?
Not every physical therapy clinic offers specialized pelvic health care—but we do. At Advanced Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine, our team is trained to provide compassionate, individualized care. We proudly serve Neenah, Appleton, and Ripon, WI, helping women reclaim their lives with confidence and strength.
Taking the First Step
We know it’s hard to make that first call. It can feel overwhelming to admit that you need help, let alone schedule an appointment. But we’re here to support you every step of the way. Your first visit is a chance to share your story and get your questions answered by a caring professional.
You are not alone. Taking that first step is the beginning of your journey toward healing and empowerment.
Call us at 920.991.2561 for Appleton locations, 920-251-6552 for Neenah and 920-896-0430 for Ripon to schedule your appointment today.
Dr. Madeline Kehler, PT, DPT, specializes in Pelvic Health at our Neenah clinic. Her passion is helping women of all ages navigate these challenges with expertise, compassion, and encouragement.