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The Femina Physical Therapy Blog

Featuring original articles by our staff about current events and trends

Explore our insightful blog articles on pelvic health, where we delve into essential topics that empower and educate. From understanding pelvic floor disorders to strategies for conquering infertility, our content is designed for those seeking knowledge and support. We discuss the latest research, expert advice, and practical tips to enhance your well-being and foster a deeper connection to your body.

Featured From the Blog:

Therapeutic Breast Massage in Lactation (TBML)

Therapeutic Breast Massage in Lactation | Image Courtesy of Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz via Unsplash

Therapeutic Breast Massage in Lactation Can Help Make Breastfeeding Less Painful

Breastfeeding is widely accepted as the normal standard for providing nutrition to newborns, however, many women who do not reach their breastfeeding goals. US national data stated that breast pain was a commonly reported reason for women weaning less than 1 month postpartum. Within that segment, 29% of women who participated in the study stated that “breastfeeding was too painful” to continue.

In the same study, 24% of women reported “breasts feel(ing) too full or engorged” as another reason to discontinue breastfeeding prior to 1 month postpartum.¹ Currently, The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding of infants for the first six months of life. As physical therapists who treat patients with postpartum conditions, we are well positioned to make a big impact on patients with breastfeeding related pain and reduce barriers to continued breastfeeding!

Lightning Crotch in Pregnancy: How You Can Start Recovering from SPD

What is symphysis pubis dysfunction (Lightning Crotch)?

Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD), also known as pubic symphysis dysfunction, anterior pelvic girdle pain, or lightning crotch, is a common musculoskeletal condition that is experienced by pregnant women and can vary from minor discomfort to severely debilitating pain. It is typically characterized by discomfort in the front pelvic area that can radiate to the inner thighs and perineum (think where your pubic bone is).

Vulvovaginal Moisturizers: Who Needs One & Choosing the Right One

Vulvovaginal Moisturizers: Effective Hydration and Relief | Image Courtesy of Averie Woodward via Unsplash

Choosing the Right Vulvovaginal Moisturizer

Assuming you need one, make sure it's got the right ingredient list

There are many reasons why those born with female anatomy may require the use of a vulvovaginal moisturizer throughout their lifetime. As you age, the vaginal and vulvar tissues tend to become drier and less elastic. This change is typically seen around the time one goes through menopause due to the drop in estrogen that occurs. The vulvovaginal tissues are very sensitive to hormonal changes and estrogen is the hormone that controls vaginal lubrication, as well as tissue elasticity and thickness.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 08 January 2020; Last Updated: 03 April 2025; 20699 Views

Pain at the pubic bone is also known as pelvic girdle pain

It is a common ailment experienced during pregnancy

In fact, in a study by Mogren (2006), 50% of pregnant women have some type of pelvic girdle pain prior to 20 weeks gestation. The pain can make daily activities like working, walking, and doing chores, painful if not impossible, and can can also negatively affect quality of life and sexual life during pregnancy (Mogren, 2006).

Details: Written by: Heather Jeffcoat, DPT; Published: 08 January 2020; Last Updated: 03 April 2025; 6474 Views

NextAvenue.com | Could Your Symptoms Be Pointing to a Pelvic Floor Disorder?

Optimizing Your Pelvic Floor Health is No Longer a Secret

As pelvic floor physical therapy gains acceptance amongst an ever widening audience, popular websites such as Next Avenue are providing much needed exposure to their readers.

In a recent article entitled "Could Your Symptoms Point to a Pelvic Floor Disorder?", author Brette Sember quotes Heather Jeffcoat as part of this wide ranging discussion of pelvic floor treatments:

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 07 January 2020; Last Updated: 20 March 2025; 5788 Views

New Year's Resolutions For Your Pelvic Floor | Breathe! — Photo by Fabian Møller on Unsplash

Believe it or not, the pelvic floor can affect the quality of our breathing.

The opposite is also true:

Promoting efficient diaphragmatic breathing can improve function of the pelvic floor.

In this study by Zivkovic et al. Zivkovic et al. , diaphragmatic breathing exercises were effective in helping to retrain children with voiding dysfunctions, including bowel and bladder issues.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 07 January 2020; Last Updated: 20 March 2025; 24418 Views

Don’t squat and hover to pee!

Sit down and relax your pelvic floor muscles.

Ok, ok so this tip is always met with some pushback, but to those of you who prefer to squat and hover to pee rather than sit should be aware that this habit is not good for your pelvic floor! Sit down and relax!

Why is it so bad for you to squat and hover to pee?

When you are in a partial squat, hovering over the toilet, the muscles of your glutes, legs, abs, back, and pelvic floor are activated and cannot fully relax. For urine to flow easily and fully, the pelvic floor muscles and the muscles surrounding your pelvis have to relax.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 26 December 2019; Last Updated: 04 May 2025; 13995 Views

What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)?

Every person with a uterus will experience menopause during their lifetime.

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a term that describes the different genital, sexual, and urinary signs and symptoms that can occur during menopause.

The symptoms of GSM can greatly affect quality of life, so it is important to be aware the signs so that you can seek out appropriate care and support from your healthcare team.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 26 December 2019; Last Updated: 20 March 2025; 30490 Views

Presents for your Pelvic Floor

Give the gift of pelvic health this holiday season!

Check out these pelvic floor friendly products we have for sale at the clinic. Give us a call or stop by our Montrose or Sherman Oaks locations to purchase some items.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 26 December 2019; Last Updated: 20 March 2025; 10655 Views

There Are Several Options For Non-Hormonal Treatments for GSM.

Some include hormones, while others do not.

Today we will review some non-hormone treatment options. As always, consult with your physician to help you make the best decisions regarding your health.

Details: Written by: Staff; Published: 19 December 2019; Last Updated: 20 March 2025; 14982 Views

Why Your New Years Resolutions for Your Pelvic Floor Health Should Include Learning Your Anatomy

Have you ever looked at your genitalia in the mirror? Like REALLY looked at it?

One of the most empowering things you can do for your pelvic health is to take a look at yourself in the mirror and learn your anatomy. Here is a quick primer on how to stay on top of what's going on down there, including tips on simple self examination and resources to find more information.

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