LGBTQIA+ Pelvic Floor Therapy

TRANSGENDER PELVIC FLOOR THERAPY

The journey of gender confirmation is complex — and deeply personal. Physical therapy, with a focus on pelvic health and orthopedics, offers essential support to transgender people navigating this path. 

Treasure Valley Pelvic Health is passionately dedicated to enhancing the well-being of our patients through personalized care plans, expertise in pelvic floor function, and a commitment to inclusivity. 

By addressing both the emotional and physical aspects of gender transition, physical therapy provides a foundation for people to thrive during and after their transition, all while we advocate  for a health care system that respects and meets the needs of every person.

Understanding the Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy enhances the quality of life for people undergoing gender transition. By focusing on pelvic and orthopedic health, we can address a wide array of concerns related to strength, flexibility, bowel and bladder function, and sexual health. 

Our therapy aims to:

• Mitigate pain.
• Diminish the appearance of scar tissue.
• Alleviate pelvic discomfort.
• Maintain healthy post-surgical outcomes such as dilation.

During physical therapy appointments, we prioritize actively listening to the patient, honoring the patient’s lived experience, communicating openly, and respecting patients’ boundaries. As physical therapists, we’re here to support — and hold space — for patients on their treatment journeys.

Creating Personalized Pelvic Physical Therapy Plans

One of the foundational aspects of our specialized physical therapy is crafting personalized pelvic therapy plans. While collaborating with your other health care providers, we create tailored approaches that align with the unique physiological and emotional needs of each person. 

Custom care plans can include:

• Manual therapy through neural manipulation.
• Gentle, non-invasive visceral manipulation.
• Manual therapy through joint manipulation, manipulation of the muscles, joint mobilization, and kneading.
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, or IASTM.
• Cupping therapy to increase soft tissue mobility and speed the healing process.
• A range of energy medicine techniques.
• Pilates regimens on state-of-the-art Balanced Body equipment.
• Exercise routines using body weight, free weights, and other readily available equipment.
• At-home programs that work for your life.

We supply patients with the power, tools, and strategies to achieve their goals and reach their fullest potential. Our therapy, support, and guidance ensures that every aspect of a patient’s health is considered, offering a holistic approach to recovery and well-being.

Why Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy Matters

Pelvic floor physical therapy is a key component of care for transgender people. We possess in-depth training to assess and treat the pelvic floor muscles along with the mobility of abdominal organs. We continuously educate ourselves for the betterment of our patients. Our expertise enables us to address a broad spectrum of diagnoses, including issues related to bowel, bladder, and sexual health, as well as conditions like prolapse and chronic pelvic pain.

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor itself is a critical structure: a sling of muscles stretching from the pubic bone to the tailbone. These muscles provide stability and support to the pelvic region and abdominal organs, control sphincteric functions, play a role in sexual health, and assist in circulatory processes. Through targeted therapy, individuals can address dysfunctions within these areas, leading to improved quality of life.

Everyone, regardless of gender identity, has a pelvic floor. The anatomy and functions of the pelvic floor are largely consistent across individuals, meaning that anyone can experience pelvic floor dysfunction or injury.

Common issues include:

• Overactive muscles causing pain or discomfort during sexual activity.
• Pain with bowel movements.
• Weakened muscles leading to urinary incontinence or prolapse.

Benefits of Transgender Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy 

Pelvic floor physical therapy can be particularly beneficial for transgender people. Gender affirmation surgeries, such as bottom surgeries, significantly alter the anatomy, impacting the pelvic floor muscles’ functionality. Physical therapy can aid in the recovery process, addressing post-operative considerations like dilation, wound care, and adaptation to new toileting behaviors. 

Procedures like a mastectomy or breast augmentation, as well as practices like binding or tucking, can lead to complications that are manageable with the expertise of a skilled physical therapist.

Physical therapy for the pelvic floor is not only about addressing current dysfunctions; it’s also about prevention. By fostering good habits and minimizing any negative side effects of various gender affirmation practices, our physical therapists support individuals in maintaining their chosen methods of gender expression safely and healthfully.

Advocacy for Inclusive Health Care in Idaho

We understand that the need for inclusive, comprehensive health care is paramount. Pelvic floor physical therapy stands out as a field that supports individuals through gender transition by championing health and well-being. By providing specialized care that respects the unique experiences of each person, our therapists at Treasure Valley Pelvic Health contribute to a more inclusive health care landscape in Eagle and the Boise area.

In a health care system that often overlooks the specific needs of the LGBTQIA+ community, pelvic floor physical therapy’s role in supporting gender affirmation is revolutionary — yet vital. It’s a testament to the evolving understanding of health care as a discipline that adapts to serve people of every gender identity and expression.