How Pelvic Floor Rehab Can Help After a Hysterectomy
If you've recently had a hysterectomy, you might be dealing with unexpected pelvic discomfort, core weakness, or bladder changes. Pelvic floor rehab post-hysterectomy can be a game-changer for restoring strength, function, and confidence. This guide explores how pelvic floor therapy can help after surgery, the best exercises to regain strength, and tips on a smoother recovery.
Why Pelvic Floor Rehab is Essential After Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy, or surgical removal of the uterus, often impacts the surrounding pelvic structures, including the pelvic floor muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and core stability. During surgery, these muscles may be weakened or strained, leading to issues like:
Loss of pelvic support
Bladder leakage or incontinence
Pelvic pain
Reduced core strength
These issues are common, but pelvic floor rehab can play a crucial role in helping you recover.
Benefits of Pelvic Floor Therapy After Hysterectomy
Restores Pelvic Strength and Function
After a hysterectomy, the pelvic floor muscles need time and specific exercises to regain their strength and function. Pelvic floor therapy offers exercises that are safe and effective, tailored to gradually rebuild the support these muscles provide. These exercises target the deep core and pelvic muscles, which helps improve daily activities, stability, and comfort.Prevents Incontinence and Bladder Issues
Bladder changes, including incontinence, are common post-hysterectomy. Pelvic floor rehab includes exercises that strengthen the muscles surrounding the bladder, helping you maintain control and prevent leaks. Strengthening the pelvic floor after a hysterectomy can make a significant difference in bladder health and confidence.Reduces Pelvic Pain
Pelvic pain can linger after surgery due to muscle imbalances, scarring, or nerve irritation. Pelvic floor therapy includes manual therapy and stretches that target areas of tightness and discomfort. This approach helps alleviate pain, improve circulation, and promote healing.Improves Core Stability and Overall Recovery
The core and pelvic floor connection is vital for stability, especially after a major abdominal surgery like a hysterectomy. Rehab exercises strengthen the core alongside the pelvic floor, making everyday activities easier and helping you get back to exercise with less risk of injury. Post-hysterectomy pelvic floor therapy can lead to a faster, safer recovery.
Effective Pelvic Floor Exercises After Hysterectomy
Before starting any exercise, consult your doctor or a pelvic floor therapist to ensure it’s safe based on your surgery and healing progress. Here are some pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can be especially helpful:
Bridge Exercise
Kegel Exercises
Kegels target the pelvic floor muscles directly, helping you regain muscle tone and control. Start by gently contracting and releasing the pelvic muscles, holding each contraction for a few seconds before releasing. Work up to longer holds as you progress.Deep Breathing and Core Activation
Diaphragmatic breathing, combined with gentle core engagement, helps stimulate and restore the connection between your core and pelvic floor. Breathe deeply, focusing on a slow, controlled expansion of the belly and lower ribs. This breathing technique promotes blood flow and reduces pelvic tension.Bridge Pose
Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat. Slowly lift your hips into a bridge, squeezing the glutes and engaging the pelvic floor as you rise. Hold for a few seconds before lowering. Bridges improve both glute and pelvic floor strength, essential for pelvic health rehabilitation.Heel Slides
While lying on your back, gently slide one heel towards your hip, engaging your core and pelvic muscles as you move. Heel slides are a low-impact way to strengthen the core and pelvic floor without straining your healing body.
What to Expect from Pelvic Floor Therapy After Hysterectomy
During pelvic floor therapy after a hysterectomy, you’ll work with one of our trained pelvic floor therapists who will tailor a program to address your specific needs and goals. Common treatment techniques include:
Manual Therapy: Gentle techniques that release tension, scar tissue, or trigger points within the pelvic floor.
Customized Exercise Plan: Your therapist will guide you through safe, progressive exercises to build pelvic and core strength.
Lifestyle and Posture Advice: Guidance on healthy postures and daily habits that support your post-hysterectomy pelvic health.
A qualified pelvic rehab specialist will monitor your progress, adjust exercises as needed, and provide valuable feedback. With consistency, you can expect to see improvements in strength, stability, and comfort in a matter of weeks to months.
Tips for a Successful Pelvic Floor Rehab Journey
Start Slow: Give your body time to heal. Even gentle movements make a difference in early recovery.
Stay Consistent: Regular practice, even for just a few minutes a day, can lead to meaningful progress over time.
Listen to Your Body: Avoid exercises that cause pain. If you experience discomfort, talk to your therapist to make adjustments.
Final Thoughts: Regaining Strength and Confidence
Pelvic floor rehabilitation after a hysterectomy is one of the most effective ways to regain strength, function, and comfort. By incorporating pelvic floor strengthening exercises, addressing bladder support, and restoring core stability, pelvic rehab empowers you to move with confidence. With the right support and consistency, you can enhance your recovery and enjoy a full, active life post-hysterectomy. At Custom Care Rehab, we have the ability to create a customized plan that suits you best. We use a blend of virtual or in-person visits depending on which format is conducive to the best recovery!
