Urinary incontinence (UI) is a significant problem for Australian women. Affecting 1 in 3 women of all ages, this is an issue that needs to be taken seriously. When a woman is not able to control her bladder, it can affect her life profoundly. Women will often stop exercising, withdraw from intimacy, have reduced self-esteem, and avoid engaging in things they enjoy. Shockingly, a large population-based study found that 75% of affected women don’t seek help, and among those who do seek help, only 12% actually ended up receiving care¹. Incontinence is highly prevalent but very treatable – and pelvic floor muscle training is the grade A, first line recommended treatment for stress, urge or mixed incontinence². We know that you know this – but do women know this? It is our job to ensure the message is heard, understood and acted upon.

We have noticed a recent dramatic increase in pelvic pain presentations that appear to be triggered by higher levels of stress and anxiety during the COVID-19 pandemic. When a patient presents with chronic pain, it is no longer acceptable to view them through a narrow lens. More and more research now supports what we have long known, that chronic pain is driven by a sensitised nervous system. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety feed directly into sensitised nervous systems, further heightening the pain experience1.

For women with pelvic organ prolapse, the lifestyle changes associated with being at home during COVID-19 are having a big impact on their symptoms. Women are home with their kids more, and doing heavier house and garden work. As the gyms and pools are closed, many have also turned to running or high impact online exercise programs, all of which are contributing. Given the strong evidence base for conservative management of mild-moderate pelvic organ prolapse, we would like to share 5 treatment options.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common gastrointestinal disorder. Symptoms of bloating, abdominal pain and diarrhoea or constipation (or alternating) are frequent. These impact daily life, mental wellbeing, increase absenteeism from work/school and affect social activities.

Exercise is a vital part of cancer management. The benefits are not only physical. Exercise can improve mood, symptoms of depression, and also have an impact on the body’s immune system and chances of overall survival. The benefits of exercise in cancer are so widely supported that it is now recommended by the Clinical Oncology Society of Australia that exercise be a part of everyone’s cancer care.