Common Myths About Physical Therapy (Debunked!) – Pelvic Health Edition

When people think of physical therapy, they often imagine someone recovering from a sports injury or car accident. But the truth is, physiotherapy, especially Pelvic Health physiotherapy—is so much more than that!

As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I often meet clients who are surprised to learn that their symptoms can be treated with physio, or who have waited months (even years!) before seeking help because of their lack of knowledge about this niche or lack of diretion from their providers.

Let’s clear the air and debunk a few common myths, so you or someone you care about can get the care you deserve.

Myth #1: “Physical therapy is only for serious injuries.”

Truth: Physiotherapy helps with both big and small issues, and many pelvic health concerns don’t start with a “serious” injury at all. If you're leaking when you sneeze, feeling heaviness in your pelvis, or having pain during intercourse, those are very real, treatable symptoms—even if they don’t involve a fall or trauma.

Pelvic health physiotherapy supports:

• Pregnancy and postpartum recovery

• Period-related pain

• Prolapse or pelvic pressure

• Constipation

• Bladder urgency or frequency

• Prehab/rehab from surgery & more!

You don’t need to “wait until it’s bad enough.” Early care = better outcomes.

Myth #2: “Leaking is just a normal part of being a mom.”

Truth: Common? Yes. Normal? No.

Leaking urine after birth—or at any stage—is a sign your pelvic floor needs support, not something you have to “just live with.” Many moms are told it’s expected or inevitable, but with the right exercises, movement strategies, and education, you can feel in control again.

(This goes for bowel movements as well!)

Myth #3: “You can just do Kegels at home.”

Truth: Kegels aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes Kegels help. Sometimes they make symptoms worse if the muscles are already tight or overworked.

At a pelvic physio session, we assess whether your pelvic floor is weak, tight, uncoordinated, or underactive—and build a treatment plan specific to your body and goals.

Myth #4: “You need a referral to see a pelvic physiotherapist.”

Truth: In Ontario (and many other places), you can book an appointment directly with a pelvic health physiotherapist—no referral required. And if you’re unsure whether physio can help, a discovery call or consultation can point you in the right direction.

NOTE that some insurance companies require a doctor's referral in order to be covered by insurance (but you don't need a referral to be seen).

Myth #5: “Pelvic physio is only for women.”

Truth: Pelvic floor issues affect all genders. While my practice primarily focuses on women’s health, anyone with a pelvis (i.e., everyone!) has a pelvic floor. People of all genders can experience symptoms like incontinence, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction.

If you're unsure whether pelvic physio is for you, ask. You might be surprised.

Final Thoughts: You Deserve to Feel Good in Your Body

Whether you're a new mom, experiencing discomfort during intimacy, or just curious if what you're feeling is “normal,” pelvic health physiotherapy can help you reconnect with your body in empowering, trauma-informed, and evidence-based ways.

Have questions? Wondering if physio can help you? Book a free 15-minute consult and let’s chat!

Love, your favourite physio,

Liron