Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) is a common side effect of cancer and cancer treatments and can impact both men and women. Pelvic floor specialized physiotherapy can help you get back to doing what you love after experiencing changes to your pelvic floor function.

What is pelvic floor dysfunction?

Pelvic floor dysfunction can occur immediately as a result of surgical intervention, or as a side effect of cancer treatments. It can also occur because of pregnancy, birth, or aging processes.

The pelvic floor consists of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other structures that are designed to help support and regulate the functions of the organs located in the pelvic cavity. These structures work together to control the bladder and bowel, sexual functions, and stabilize the pelvis, hips, and spine. When these functions don’t work effectively, this is considered pelvic floor dysfunction.

Physio for the pelvic floor

Pelvic floor dysfunction can include loss of continence, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, pelvic pain or discomfort and other concerns. These symptoms can be challenging to navigate and can leave people feeling upset and frustrated with their condition. Thankfully there are treatment options to help alleviate or eliminate these symptoms. Pelvic floor physiotherapists are specialized health care professionals that are trained to diagnose, assess, and treat these conditions.

At Breast Rehab, we recommend a full assessment by a pelvic floor physiotherapist prior to undergoing procedures and treatments that are known to cause pelvic floor changes, or as soon as you notice a change. Following your assessment, we will work with you to develop an individualized treatment plan focusing on education, manual therapy, exercise prescription, and lifestyle changes.