Bladder and bowel dysfunction can affect people of all ages and stages of life. These symptoms often result from changes in the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.

Female Athletes

Urinary incontinence is not just a concern after childbirth, it can also affect younger women, including athletes in their teens and twenties. High-impact sports and increased intra-abdominal pressure can place extra strain on the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of leakage. Hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle may also affect muscle coordination and energy levels, further contributing to pelvic floor dysfunction.

During and After Pregnancy

Pregnancy, labor, and delivery place significant demands on the pelvic floor muscles. Constipation during pregnancy, combined with the growing baby, adds extra pressure. Even though labor and delivery are natural processes, they can cause lasting strain if the muscles are not properly rehabilitated.

Hormonal changes in the postpartum period can also lead to symptoms such as:

• Pain with intercourse

• Urinary urgency, frequency, or leakage

• Constipation or diarrhea

• Fecal incontinence or loss of gas control

During Perimenopause and Menopause

As estrogen levels decline, women may again experience symptoms similar to the postpartum period. This hormonal shift can affect tissue elasticity and muscle function, leading to bladder, bowel, or sexual symptoms that respond well to pelvic floor physical therapy.

In Men

Men can also experience bladder and bowel issues related to pelvic floor dysfunction. Sometimes symptoms appear without an obvious cause, making expert evaluation essential. At Sakura Pelvic Health, our highly trained therapist performs a thorough assessment to identify what’s contributing to your symptoms and creates a treatment plan to restore function and confidence.

After prostatectomy, urinary incontinence is common but research shows that men who receive pelvic floor therapy can see improvement in urinary control, sexual function and a decrease in pain.