Specialist physiotherapy for bowel symptoms in women
Bowel symptoms are some of the most common things we treat, and some of the least talked about. Constipation that no amount of fibre seems to fix. Urgency that dictates where you can and cannot go. Difficulty emptying fully. Leakage that has quietly started to shape your day. Many of the women we see have been living with these symptoms for years, often without ever mentioning them to anyone.
Effective treatment is available. Pelvic Health Physiotherapy is an evidence-based treatment for a wide range of bowel conditions, helping people regain confidence, comfort and control. Every member of our Pelvic Health team holds postgraduate qualifications in this area, and bowel rehabilitation is a specialist area of our practice.
Bowel conditions we treat
We offer specialist assessment and treatment for a wide range of bowel conditions, including:
- Faecal incontinence
- Bowel urgency
- Chronic constipation
- Obstructive defaecation and difficulty emptying
- Incomplete bowel emptying
- Straining
- Rectal pain and proctalgia
- Haemorrhoid related symptoms
- Anal fissure recovery
- IBS related pelvic floor dysfunction
- Post natal bowel changes
- Bowel changes following pelvic or colorectal surgery
- Pre and post operative rehabilitation for bowel surgery
Assessment that gets to the cause
Bowel symptoms are often closely linked to pelvic floor function, breathing patterns, abdominal pressure management, hydration, diet, stress and wider lifestyle factors. Treating them well means understanding how those things fit together for you. Your first appointment allows us to build a clear picture of what may be contributing to your symptoms, so treatment can be directed at the causes rather than simply the symptoms.
How we treat bowel conditions
Following your assessment, we put together a plan that is personal to you. Treatment may include pelvic floor rehabilitation, optimising bowel emptying techniques, bowel habit and lifestyle advice, abdominal massage, breathing and pressure management, and hands on therapy where appropriate. Where it will add value to your assessment or rehabilitation, we may also use diagnostic imaging or biofeedback as part of your care.
A sensitive, specialist approach
Bowel symptoms are often the last thing people feel comfortable discussing, and the relief that comes from finally being heard, understood and given a clear plan is something we see every day. Our clinicians create a safe, calm, completely non judgemental environment, and your symptoms will be approached with the discretion and clinical care they deserve.
We work closely with colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, gynaecologists and GPs across south west London, Surrey and the surrounding areas, ensuring seamless, coordinated care whenever additional investigations or specialist input are needed.
