You can usually avoid surgery with tailored pelvic health rehabilitation.

If you’re a woman dealing with urinary incontinence, that sense of urgency or leak, or pelvic organ prolapse, you may be wondering – do I need surgery? According to a wealth of high-quality medical research, the answer is absolutely not at first. Physiotherapy should be the first treatment approach before even considering an operation.

Let’s look at what the scientific evidence tells us about going the conservative physiotherapy route for incontinence, prolapse, and other pelvic floor conditions in women:

Numerous major studies and clinical guidelines, including reviews by authorities like NICE and Cochrane, have given physiotherapy their highest level of endorsement as a first-line treatment. The proof is overwhelming that it’s an extremely effective solution.

In fact, physiotherapy is shown to reduce symptom severity in a whopping 80% of cases of urinary issues or prolapse. And get this – the cure rate from physiotherapy of 64% is essentially equal to what’s seen with surgery (50-60% cure rate)!

But unlike surgery, physiotherapy has virtually no risks or potential complications. It’s also much more cost-effective, with a typical course of treatment averaging only around $300 out-of-pocket compared to $4000-6000 or more for an operation like a culposuspension surgery.

The research also shows that simply being given a brochure with Kegel or pelvic floor exercises isn’t enough. Many women perform these exercises incorrectly or struggle with compliance when trying to do them at home with no guidance.

However, when completed under the supervision of a specially trained women’s health physiotherapist, patients have much higher adherence and see far better short-term and long-lasting results from the rehabilitation program.

So what exactly is involved when you see a physio for incontinence or prolapse? It starts with a thorough assessment, including an internal exam if needed and real-time ultrasound imaging of how your pelvic floor muscles are functioning.

From there, your physio will prescribe an individualized treatment plan combining exercises and activities to improve pelvic floor strength and coordination. They’ll guide you through the proper techniques and progression. Other interventions like biofeedback, electrical stimulation, or hands-on techniques may also be used as appropriate.

The bottom line is, thanks to numerous high-quality studies, there’s overwhelming evidence that conservative physiotherapy should be the first-line option pursued before invasive surgery is even considered for urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and other pelvic floor conditions in women.

Our team includes women’s health physiotherapists with advanced training in this specialized area of care. If you’re suffering from “leaks,” urgency, heaviness, or other pelvic symptoms, request an appointment and learn how guided pelvic floor rehabilitation could resolve your issues safely and cost-effectively, without surgery.

Schedule a consultation and find relief today.