Pelvic Health Physiotherapy

during and after cancer

Pelvic Health after cancer

Cancers affecting the structures and organs in the pelvis are more common than you may think. In fact, 23% of women and nearly 45% of men with newly diagnosed cancers occur in the pelvis (uterine, ovarian, cervical, bladder, colorectal, and prostate).

Unfortunately, the treatments for these types of cancer (surgery, radiation, chemotherapy) can lead to long term issues such as:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Vaginal stenosis (narrowing of the vaginal canal)
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Urinary issues (leaking, frequency, urgency)
  • GI irregularities (constipation, urgency, fecal incontinence)

Although seemingly removed from the pelvic region, breast cancer has also been linked to long-term pelvic health issues. This is primarily related to the onset of menopause caused directly by chemotherapy, hormonal therapy (Tamoxifen and Aromatase Inhibitors), and ovarian suppression.

 

The effects of living with these ongoing and often undiagnosed issues can deeply affect both the mental and physical health of these people, as well as their quality of life. With the proper treatment, many of these issues can be resolved or managed. Seeing a physiotherapist equipped to assess and treat the pelvic floor is strongly recommended both during and after cancer treatment. 

The Importance of the pelvic floor

There is strong evidence to support the important role of pelvic floor physiotherapy during cancer rehabilitation for both men and women (Rutledge et al 2014, Yang et al 2012, Lin et al 2015). Recognizing that issues relating to pelvic floor health are often sensitive, perhaps especially so during and after the experience of cancer treatment, Beth is committed to providing a comfortable and professional environment in which to assess, treat, and support the recovery of her clients.

As a physiotherapist Beth is able to assess and treat your pelvic floor needs. This may include: 

  • Manual therapy to address pelvic floor over or under-activity
  • Breathing, relaxation, and meditation techniques
  • Postural and ergonomic education 
  • Exercises to increase the mind-body connection to your pelvic floor muscles (proprioception)
  • Basic dietary modification advice
  • Education on the use of vaginal lubricants, moisturizers, and other possible tools
2019-2023 © Beth Hoag Physiotherapist

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

The information provided on this website is offered for educational purposes only and is based on the personal and professional knowledge of the author. Nothing on this website is offered as a substitute for medical care or to negate or replace any previously given medical instruction by a licensed or certified health care provider. Beth Hoag is Canadian-licenced physical therapist. By reading this material and/or registering or purchasing an online product or service, you acknowledge that you are not entering into an agreement for personal training, professional coaching, clinical health or direct physiotherapy care. You also acknowledge that you are free to make your own healthcare decisions.

By reading this and/ or purchasing any online products or services, you assume the liability and responsibility over how you utilize the information provided and will not hold Beth Hoag, Physiotherapist liable for any personal injury ensued in how you utilized this information. You are recommended to inform your current health care providers of any changes in your health status and discuss your health care decisions with them immediately upon deciding to change a prior prescribed plan of care.