“I wanted to know more about myself.”

If you’re thinking about seeing a pelvic health physiotherapist, you probably have questions: Is it for me? Will it be awkward? Will it actually help me? And while we’re happy to answer anything you want to know, we also thought you’d benefit from hearing from people just like you. That’s why we’ve asked a few Happy Down There patients to share their experiences with pelvic health physiotherapy.

When they were getting ready to have this first child, this 26 year old patient decided it was time to take their health into their own hands - and, just like that, the universe delivered a post about the prenatal pelvic health physiotherapy offered by Michiko. What started as a question about reducing urinary frequency (a common question during pregnancy) evolved into a healing journey of understanding, and feeling empowered about, their own body as they prepared for this next chapter.

Why did you initially come to see Michiko?

I wanted to know more about myself, essentially. My whole pelvic region felt so unknown and almost foreign to me, like it was something outside of my control that only doctors could guide me on. However, I felt more and more like I was not receiving guidance that worked or made sense for my body [from those medical professionals.] I didn’t really connect muscular tension as the possible cause for some of the pain I experienced during sex. Instead, my mind would always leap to “Whelp, I have a tumour!” I also wanted help with my urinary frequency. I didn’t want to have the anxiety each time I went out of “Ok where are the washrooms en route, do I have time to go to the washroom?”

How did you feel after the first appointment?

So cared for. I felt empowered. I felt supported. I felt like I had a partner now guiding me and not just someone talking down to me or prescribing things that had no practical application or effectiveness. I felt, and continue to feel, so seen and listened to.

What made you want to keep coming for pelvic health physio?

I discovered that the issues I was having could be fixed or healed or worked on! I wanted to keep coming because I wanted to keep pursuing the relief I felt after our first session.

What would you say to someone who is hesitant to see a pelvic health physio?

Make sure to ask them how they’re going to make you feel comfortable. It’s your body, and you deserve to feel safe and cared for. Also, you must know that you don’t have to just live with or suffer through your pelvic health issue. It can get better! And even if you don’t have a direct “issue” it’s so empowering to know how your pelvic floor is doing in relation to your overall health because it truly is all connected.