Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy plays a crucial role in an individual's healing journey following a hysterectomy to rebuild strength, provide assistance in safely returning to activity/exercise, and eliminate discomfort or pain.

First, let’s cover what a hysterectomy is:
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of one’s uterus. There are different types of hysterectomies that vary depending on the extent of what is removed along with the uterus. 

So, what does that have to do with the pelvic floor?
One of the functions of the pelvic floor muscles is to support the uterus, bladder, and rectum. Therefore, it makes sense to consider what would happen to those muscles (along with the cervix, ovaries, vagina, etc.) after the removal of the uterus. Where those muscles once supported an organ and other structures, they now, well, don’t. With the absence of the uterus, the dynamics of that pelvic space can then shift. This can result in things like urinary incontinence, bowel symptoms or pelvic organ prolapse. Pelvic Floor PT can help in rehabbing those muscles that now have to adapt to a space that no longer supports the uterus.

Management of scar tissue post operatively is also something to consider. Scar tissue forms after a surgery, and with it can develop symptoms of pain, tightness, or limitations in movements and/or function of the muscles. Pelvic Floor PT will help to reduce adhesions of this scar tissue, improve blood flow to the pelvic space, and improve overall flexibility of the tissues.

Bowel and Bladder function can be impacted following a hysterectomy. Again, with the removal of the uterus, the bowel and bladder now are occupying a space without it. This can result in symptoms like urinary incontinence or constipation. Pelvic Floor PT with help to identify the source of these symptoms so that appropriate treatment can be provided to reduce tension, strengthen or coordinate the pelvic floor muscles.

Optimizing recovery involves increasing circulation and reducing swelling in the pelvic region to enhance tissue healing. 

Also, a pelvic floor PT will help in assessing posture, abdominal strength, hip mobility, muscle imbalances, and breathing techniques/pressure management, as all of these things can affect the pelvic floor.

We typically recommend beginning pelvic floor PT 6-8 weeks following a hysterectomy. Whether your surgery was recent or years prior, pelvic floor PT will provide you the support to meet your goals!