October 23, 2025 • min read
How women’s health physical therapy can help reduce pelvic floor dysfunction
Written by

Head of Clinical Affairs, Bloom

Women’s health is about feeling at home in your body
Every woman’s body tells a story. It is shaped by life experiences, hormones, pregnancies, stress, and the countless demands of modern life. Through all of it, your body works hard, often without thanks. But when something feels “off,” when pain, pressure, or leakage appear, it can be hard to know where to turn.
Women’s health physical therapy is a specialized branch of physical therapy that supports women through every stage of life, from adolescence to postmenopause, helping them move comfortably, recover from change, and reconnect with their bodies.
Unlike traditional physical therapy, which often focuses on injury recovery, women’s health physical therapy is built around the unique physical and hormonal transitions that women experience. It is about restoring balance, strength, and confidence so you can live fully, without pain or hesitation.
What is women’s health physical therapy?
Every woman’s body changes throughout life. Puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and aging all influence muscle tone, joint stability, and hormonal balance. These changes are natural, but they can sometimes cause discomfort, pain, or changes in bladder and bowel control that many women assume are just part of life.
Women’s health physical therapy was developed to address these concerns holistically. It looks beyond isolated symptoms and considers how different parts of the body work together. For example, tight hip muscles can affect pelvic floor function, and breathing patterns can influence posture and core stability. A women’s health physical therapist examines these connections to identify the underlying causes of discomfort and create an individualized plan for recovery.
This type of therapy is not just about restoring strength; it is about restoring connection. By learning how the body responds to movement and pressure, women gain insight into their own physical health. Over time, this awareness builds confidence and a better understanding of how to reduce pain and relieve symptoms so women can start to live without discomfort or limitation.
What does women’s health physical therapy involve?
Women’s health physical therapy takes a whole-body approach to movement and healing. It combines education, guided exercise, and behavioral strategies to help women understand and manage their symptoms.
Therapists often begin by assessing posture, breathing, and alignment. These may seem like simple things, but they have a profound impact on how muscles support the spine and pelvis. Poor posture or shallow breathing can create imbalances that lead to pain or pelvic floor tension. By retraining these basic patterns, therapy can relieve symptoms that have persisted for years.
During sessions, women might learn gentle exercises to strengthen the deep abdominal and pelvic muscles. These are not high-intensity workouts; they are mindful movements that build endurance and coordination. Education is a major component, as women learn why symptoms occur, how daily habits affect them, and what changes can support long-term wellness.
Typical therapy elements include:
- Gentle strengthening and mobility exercises for the pelvic floor, core, and hips
- Breathing and relaxation techniques to improve muscle coordination
- Postural adjustments that reduce strain on the lower back and pelvis
- Education about bladder and bowel health
- Lifestyle guidance for movement, lifting, or exercise routines
By addressing the full picture of physical health, therapy empowers women to take an active role in their healing process. It moves beyond short-term symptom relief to help women feel strong, balanced, and capable in their daily lives.
Why women’s health physical therapists are unique
Women’s health physical therapists receive advanced clinical training in how anatomy, hormones, and movement interact across a woman’s lifespan. This specialization allows them to address conditions that are often overlooked or dismissed in standard care settings.
Women's health specialists can help with these symptoms and conditions
- Pelvic floor dysfunction and bladder leakage
- Abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti)
- Postpartum recovery and C-section scar mobility
- Pelvic or back pain related to pregnancy or menopause
- Hormonal changes that affect joint stability or muscle tone
- Pain during intimacy
- Bone density and balance changes after menopause
Many women’s health physical therapists also understand the emotional aspects of care. Conditions like pelvic pain or incontinence can affect confidence, relationships, and quality of life. These therapists combine evidence-based treatment with compassion, creating an environment where women feel heard, respected, and supported.
Their approach focuses on empowerment. Instead of simply treating a symptom, women’s health specialists help women to understand how their bodies function. This knowledge forms the foundation for lifelong strength and control.
Importantly for women with pelvic floor dysfunction, bladder leakage, bowel problems, or pelvic pain, women’s health physical therapy provides care that can reduce discomfort and relieve symptoms so women no longer have to suffer in silence. Digital pelvic care programs like Bloom remove all the barriers of accessing in-clinic care so women can recover from the comfort and privacy of home.

What to expect during a session
A session with a women’s health physical therapist is highly personalized. The process begins with a conversation about symptoms, daily activities, and goals. The therapist takes time to understand how those symptoms influence work, exercise, and emotional well-being.
Physical assessments are gentle and may include evaluating posture, breathing, hip and spine alignment, and muscle coordination. In some cases, an internal muscle assessment may be suggested to evaluate pelvic floor strength, but this is always optional and performed only with explicit consent. The therapist will explain each step carefully to ensure that the woman feels informed and comfortable.
Once an assessment is complete, the therapist develops a plan tailored to the individual’s needs. This plan may involve specific exercises, movement strategies, or relaxation techniques. Above all, women’s health physical therapy is collaborative. The therapist provides expertise and structure, while the patient sets the pace. Progress is measured not just by symptom relief but by growing confidence and control.
Bloom makes women's health care accessible from home
While the benefits of women’s health physical therapy are well established, access to care remains a major challenge. Many clinics have long waitlists, and travel or childcare responsibilities can make consistent attendance difficult. Privacy concerns also prevent some women from seeking help, especially for sensitive pelvic health issues.
Bloom by Sword Health removes these barriers by offering digital pelvic care that women can complete from home. The Bloom experience pairs each member with a Women’s Health Specialist (each carrying a Doctorate in Physical Therapy), who guides them through a personalized plan using the Bloom Pod and mobile app. The technology provides real-time feedback during exercises, ensuring proper technique and progress tracking.
Bloom’s flexibility helps members engage on their own schedule:
- 50% of sessions take place outside regular working hours
- 20% occur on weekends²
Members report strong engagement and meaningful improvements in comfort, bladder control, and confidence³.
This approach blends the expertise of in-person therapy with the privacy and convenience of home care. It empowers women to take control of their health in an environment that feels supportive and secure.
69%
of Bloom members report feeling better or much better1
9/10
average member satisfaction rate from Bloom members2
What results can you expect from Bloom's at home care plans?
Clinical studies show Bloom members experience significant improvements in both physical and emotional wellbeing:
- 61% of women with moderate-to-severe conditions achieve meaningful relief⁶
- 65% report better quality of life and symptom improvement⁶
- 56% see improvements in anxiety, and 50% report reduced depression⁶
- 9/10 average satisfaction score⁷
Pelvic therapy is most effective when accessible, and Bloom makes it so easy for women to work on their exercises at any time, from the comfort of home. By eliminating the need to juggle family or work responsibilities during working hours, Bloom gives every woman the opportunity to access the care she deserves on her terms.
Pelvic care can help women during every stage of life
Women’s health physical therapy provides meaningful benefits across all stages of life, especially for anyone dealing with those symptoims of pelvic floor dysfunction outlined earlier in the guide.
Early adulthood: In this stage, therapy often focuses on preventing long-term problems. Many women seek care for postural pain, early pelvic floor weakness, or menstrual-related discomfort. Addressing these early helps preserve mobility and reduce strain on the spine and hips.
Pregnancy: As the body prepares for birth, posture and muscle coordination change significantly. Women’s health therapists guide safe exercises that relieve back pain, support the pelvic floor, and promote optimal alignment. These strategies help minimize discomfort during pregnancy and prepare the body for delivery.
Postpartum recovery: After childbirth, muscles and connective tissues need time to heal. Therapy supports this process by teaching how to reconnect with the core and pelvic floor safely. It can also improve C-section scar mobility, restore bladder control, and reduce sensations of heaviness or weakness.
Midlife and menopause: Hormonal changes may cause stiffness, decreased muscle tone, or increased pelvic pressure. Physical therapy helps improve mobility, rebuild strength, and address bladder urgency or discomfort. This support can make a significant difference in maintaining confidence and comfort through hormonal transition.
Later life: With age, maintaining balance and bone health becomes essential. Therapy provides safe exercises that preserve independence and reduce fall risk. It also helps manage chronic pelvic or back pain, ensuring women can stay active and engaged in daily activities.
Each phase brings unique physical demands, and women’s health physical therapy offers practical, evidence-based strategies to navigate them all.

Dispelling the common myths about pelvic care
Despite its proven benefits, many misconceptions still surround women’s health physical therapy. Understanding what it is (and what it is not) helps more women feel confident seeking help.
- It is not only for postpartum women: while postpartum recovery is a common focus, therapy supports women at any age, from adolescence through postmenopause.
- It is not limited to Kegels: the pelvic floor is part of a larger system that includes breathing, alignment, and movement. Therapy trains all of these components to work together.
- It is private and respectful: sessions are guided by the patient’s comfort and consent. Nothing is done without full explanation and agreement.
- It is not only for pain: many women use therapy proactively to prevent problems, improve posture, or enhance comfort during physical activity.
By correcting these misconceptions, pelvic care becomes more approachable. Discomfort, pressure, or leakage may be common, but they are not inevitable. Women’s health physical therapy provides the tools and education needed to restore strength, comfort, and confidence. By learning how the body functions and what influences these systems, women gain lasting control over their well-being.
What is the connection between physical and emotional wellbeing?
The benefits of women’s health physical therapy extend far beyond physical strength. When women feel comfortable and confident in their bodies, emotional health often improves as well. Pelvic floor dysfunction, for example, can cause distress and self-consciousness that affect daily life. Research shows that women with these conditions are more than three times as likely to experience anxiety or depression¹. Addressing symptoms through therapy can relieve not only physical discomfort but also emotional strain.
As women regain control over their movements and symptoms, they often report feeling more capable, energized, and positive. Improved posture and muscle function can also lead to better breathing patterns and reduced stress. Over time, these changes contribute to an overall sense of balance and well-being. Physical comfort and emotional resilience are deeply connected. Women’s health physical therapy strengthens both.
Reclaim comfort and confidence with Bloom
Bloom’s personalized women’s health care programs might already be covered within your health plan by your employer or health insurer. You can check your coverage to day to see if you can get started with Bloom right away.
Whether working with a women’s health physical therapist in person or through Bloom by Sword Health’s digital pelvic care program, taking the first step toward support can be transformative. The path to feeling at home in your body begins with understanding and with the confidence that healing is always possible.
Frequently asked questions about pelvic therapy
What is the difference between women’s health physical therapy and pelvic therapy?
Pelvic therapy focuses specifically on pelvic floor muscles and related symptoms such as leakage or pelvic pain. Women’s health physical therapy considers the whole body, addressing posture, breathing, and hormonal changes that affect overall well-being.
Do I need a referral to start therapy?
Bloom is easy to access without a referral. In many states, you can access traditional in-clinic care with a women’s health physical therapist directly without a referral. However, some insurance plans may require one, so checking coverage first is helpful.
Is therapy only for mothers?
No. Women’s health physical therapy supports individuals of all ages, whether or not they have experienced pregnancy or childbirth.
Is internal therapy always required?
No. Internal assessment is optional and performed only with explicit consent. Many effective treatment options involve external techniques. Bloom is also available for women without the insertable Bloom Pod, and with alternative programs for people using a pessary.
When will I notice results?
With Bloom, most women begin to experience improvement in strength, control, and comfort within a few weeks. Continued participation leads to lasting benefits.
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Footnotes
Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2018;10:CD005654.
Janela D, et al. JMIR mHealth & uHealth. 2025;13:e68242. https://mhealth.jmir.org/2025/1/e68242
Sword Health. Bloom Health Equity Whitepaper. 2024. https://swordhealth.com/insights/gated-reports/bloom-health-equity
Urol Nurs. 2005;25(2):109–115.
Janela D, et al. JMIR mHealth & uHealth. 2025;13:e68242. https://mhealth.jmir.org/2025/1/e68242
Sword Health. Bloom ROI Whitepaper. 2025. https://swordhealth.com/resources/whitepapers/bloom-pelvic-health-roi
Janela D, et al. JMIR mHealth & uHealth. 2025;13:e68242. https://mhealth.jmir.org/2025/1/e68242
Janela D, et al. Healthcare. 2024;12(2):141. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/12/2/141
Sword Health. Bloom ROI Whitepaper. 2025. https://swordhealth.com/resources/whitepapers/bloom-pelvic-health-roi