It may appear a little strange to write a blog about breathing, when it is something that we do 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and have been doing so consciously and subconsciously since we were born! However, just because breathing is automatic, it doesn’t mean that we do it effectively! Many people hold their breath without realising, they breathe into their upper chest only, or they don’t breathe in and out all the way. Being more aware of your breath and optimising the way you breathe can have a profound impact not only on your pelvic health, but your health in general.
This article is a personal story written by one of our patients (she/her) who asked if she could share her journey with Endometriosis and reflect on her experience engaging with one of our Pelvic Health Physiotherapists over the last 18 months. Her honest and powerful story will touch your heart.
Women’s & Men’s Health Physiotherapy (WMHP) exists to restore pelvic health, empowering every person to live their best life. This is our cause, our belief and what we stand for. As the physiotherapists treating, guiding and supporting you to restore your pelvic health, it is vital that we are all clear on what you would like to achieve as we embark on your journey to pelvic health.
Persistent Pelvic Pain Syndrome (PPPS) is a debilitating condition that has a huge negative impact on men’s physical, emotional and social health and wellbeing. It is more common than you think, with a study reporting 8% of Australian men identify as having pelvic pain. It is particularly distressing as many of the things men take for granted – sitting, walking, exercising, urinating, defaecating, sexual arousal and ejaculation - can cause crippling, agonising pain.
Endometriosis-related pain levels are not always related to the extent of endometrial lesions. For many people, pain may not be relieved after removing the endometriosis through surgery, or hormonal treatment to suppress menstruation. Changes to the nervous system (brain, spinal cord and nerves) is one way to understand why some people don’t respond to current methods to treat their endometriosis-related pain.
The inspiration for this piece is from one of our favourite books, “Come As You Are”, by Dr Emily Nagoski. Dr Nagoski has pulled together 10 years of research into women’s sexuality, and shares an essential exploration on how female arousal, desire, autonomy, pleasure and orgasm works, and provides tools for women to create and sustain a fulfilling sex life.
One in five women experience pain with sex, but most are too embarrassed to talk with their doctor, or confide in a friend. But want to know the good news? Painful sex is very treatable!
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