Pelvic health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. For many, seeking help from a pelvic health physiotherapist isn’t even on their radar—until issues arise. Similarly, conversations about sexual health, particularly the role of pelvic health physiotherapy in postpartum recovery and menopause, are often shrouded in silence. But understanding these topics can profoundly impact your quality of life. Let’s explore why seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist is a game-changer and why lubrication matters during key life stages like postpartum and menopause.

What Does a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Do?

Pelvic health physiotherapists specialise in assessing and treating conditions related to the pelvic floor—the group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that support your bladder, bowel, uterus (or prostate in men) and play a role in sexual function. These muscles can become weakened, tight, or imbalanced due to various life events like trauma, pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, or ageing.

Here’s why you might need to see a pelvic health physiotherapist:

Postpartum Recovery: Pregnancy and childbirth, whether vaginal or via C-section, place immense strain on the pelvic floor. Common postpartum issues include incontinence, prolapse, or pain during sex. A physiotherapist can help restore strength and function.
Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to pelvic floor dysfunction, including urinary incontinence, prolapse, or discomfort during intimacy. A pelvic health physiotherapist can guide you through exercises and strategies to maintain pelvic floor health.
Chronic Pelvic Pain: Conditions like endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, or interstitial cystitis can cause persistent pain. Pelvic physiotherapy can help you understand your anatomy, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life.
Bowel or Bladder Dysfunction: Difficulty controlling bowel or bladder movements or experiencing urgency are signs that your pelvic floor may need attention.
Pain During Sex: Pain during or after intercourse is common but not normal. A pelvic physiotherapist can identify the root cause and provide treatment.

The Importance of Lubrication Postpartum and Through Menopause

Sexual health is another area where pelvic health intersects with life transitions like childbirth and menopause. For many women, these stages bring hormonal changes that significantly affect vaginal health, making lubrication a key factor in comfortable and enjoyable intimacy.

Postpartum: Hormonal Shifts and Healing

After giving birth, oestrogen levels drop significantly, especially if you’re breastfeeding. This hormonal dip can lead to vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex. In addition, your body needs time to heal from delivery, particularly if there were tears, episiotomy, or pelvic trauma. Using a high-quality, water-based lubricant can:

Reduce friction and pain during intimacy.
Support vaginal tissue health.
Encourage sensation and enjoyment, which is essential for rebuilding confidence after childbirth.

Menopause: Vaginal Atrophy and Beyond

During menopause, declining oestrogen levels cause thinning and drying of the vaginal tissues, a condition called vaginal atrophy. This can lead to discomfort, itching, and pain during intercourse. Many women avoid intimacy altogether due to these changes, but solutions like lubrication can help:

Alleviate dryness and enhance comfort.
Protect delicate tissues from micro-tears, which can lead to infections.
Support an active and fulfilling sex life.

How a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist Can Help with Sexual Health

If you’re experiencing pain during sex or struggling with changes in intimacy, a pelvic health physiotherapist can provide support by:

Assessing pelvic floor health: They’ll determine whether overactivity, weakness, or scar tissue is contributing to discomfort.
Guiding pelvic floor relaxation: Sometimes, the pelvic floor muscles are too protective, making intimacy painful. Learning to relax these muscles can help.
Providing education on vaginal health: Your physiotherapist can recommend lubricants (Come Clean, obvi), prescription creams (like oestrogen creams), and other products suited to your specific needs.
Empowering you with knowledge: Understanding how your body changes during postpartum or menopause fosters confidence and helps you regain control over your sexual health.

Choosing the Right Lubricant

Not all lubricants are created equal. Look for products that are:

Free of irritants: Avoid fragrances, glycerin, and parabens, which can disrupt vaginal pH or cause irritation.
Compatible with your needs: Water-based lubricants are great for everyday use and safe for condoms or pessaries.
High-quality and body-safe: Consider brands recommended by healthcare professionals to ensure optimal results
All the reasons we love Come Clean!

Breaking the Taboo Around Pelvic Health

Pelvic health and sexual wellness are integral to your overall well-being. Whether you’re navigating the postpartum period, adjusting to menopause, or experiencing unexplained symptoms, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

A pelvic health physiotherapist can guide you through the physical and emotional challenges of these transitions, empowering you to feel confident and capable in your body. And when it comes to intimacy, lubrication is a small but mighty tool that can make all the difference in staying connected with yourself and your partner.

I urge every woman to see a pelvic health physiotherapist at least once in her lifetime. To fully understand female anatomy is to respect it. Women are truly outstanding.

See you soon.
Anna | Physiotherapist and Pelvic Floor Specialist
RUA Health

Pelvic Health 101: Postpartum, Water-Based Lubes & Menopause