Pelvic Floor Health with Sheela Zelmer
Peeing a little when you laugh or sneeze? Or maybe you've had chronic pain during sex or your period for so long that you think, 'This is just part of life?' In this important conversation, Dr. Anne Hussain and pelvic health physiotherapist Sheela Zelmer delve into the often-overlooked topic of the pelvic floor, discussing its critical roles (from digestion and urination to intimacy and pain) and the cultural taboos that often lead to dismissal. Sheela emphasizes how no amount of leakage is normal and how these sorts of concerns often get worse over time due to hormone change. You will learn the importance of seeking help, what a pelvic assessment truly involves, and how body awareness and acceptance are crucial for living life to the fullest.
Takeaways
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The pelvic floor is a group of muscles essential for bladder and bowel control.
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Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various ways, including urinary leakage, period pain, pain with sex, and even lower back pain. No amount of leakage is considered normal and should be addressed; the same goes for pain during periods or intercourse.
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Cultural taboos often prevent open discussions about pelvic health, which is a missed opportunity for women to learn about their bodies and get help.
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Pelvic assessments are crucial for understanding individual health needs.
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Breathing techniques can significantly impact pelvic floor health. Kegels or pelvic floor strengthening exercises are not the only way!
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Awareness and education can help normalize conversations about pelvic health. Women should be encouraged to explore and understand their bodies.Seeking help from a pelvic physiotherapist can be transformative for many women.
More About Sheela Zelmer:
Sheela Zelmer is a pelvic health physiotherapist, intimacy coach, and educator in Newmarket Ontario, which is part of the Greater Toronto Area. She works in private practice treating clients both in-person and virtually.
Sheela graduated from the University of Toronto Physical Therapy Program in 1995 and obtained certification in Sex Therapy from the University of Guelph in 2021. She is also teaching faculty with Pelvic Health Solutions in partnership with the Canadian Physiotherapy Association, educating future pelvic health professionals.
Sheela has practiced in orthopaedic and pelvic health for the past 30 years with special interest in women’s health and sexual wellness.
www.instagram.com/sheelazelmer/
Connect with Dr. Anne Hussain, ND:
https://phasetophase.ca/
https://annehussain.com/
(00:00) Understanding the Pelvic Floor
(05:22) Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Its Impact
(10:32) Navigating Cultural Taboos and Stigmas
(16:29) Assessment and Treatment of Pelvic Floor Issues
(20:05) Bladder Function and Urination Habits
(24:24) Vaginal Health and Examination
(30:15) Empowerment Through Knowledge and Self-Exploration
(33:33) Seeking Help and Normalizing Conversations
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