With a fertility expert and a pelvic floor expert in the same family, one can only imagine the discussions over the dinner table at family reunions….

But fortunately, in this episode, Ruby, Anne, and guest Dr. Abby Dunning are letting us have a little listen-in. And please do listen in, because this is a VERY important conversation for anyone with a pelvic floor. (Hint: that's ALL of us – even those who weren't born with a uterus.)

Dr. Abby Dunning is a Doctor of Physical Therapy from Ruby's own home state of Montana. She received her bachelor's degree at Carroll College and her doctorate degree at the University of Montana. She specializes in treating pelvic pain conditions, pelvic organ prolapse, bowel and bladder dysfunction, orthopedic conditions of the pelvis, hip, and spine; as well as specific concerns unique to pregnant and/or postpartum individuals and the pediatric population.

The pelvic floor supports a whole lot of important organs and functions, and yet most of us really need to learn how to keep this part of the body strong and healthy. Of course pregnancy involves the pelvic floor, but it's also critical to waste retention and release, orgasm, core strength, posture, breathing, and more, so it's pretty important to know how to exercise it and treat it well.

As with all complicated things, there are ways things can go pretty wrong: pelvic pain, incontinence, prolapse. That pain may be associated with penetrative intercourse, but it can also occur at other times or just exist as a lingering, consistent discomfort. And for many people, having pelvic exams is uncomfortable enough for so many reasons, including past physical or emotional trauma, so the idea of seeing a physical therapist for treatment seems impossible. Which is why it's important to find a PT you connect with and trust.

Many people believe that pelvic floor issues are limited to people who have had multiple pregnancies, but that's just not true. Everyone can benefit from being in tune with that part of their body and checking with a PT for the right way to keep the pelvic floor healthy (hint: not just Kegels, and NOT CRUNCHES).

Find out more about Dr. Dunning at Lone Peak Physical Therapy lonepeakpt.com - Dr. Abby Dunning and about our own Anne and Ruby at thewholepineapple.com. And as always, please rate, review, and share the episode so others can find The Whole Pineapple podcast!

Resources:

APTA Find a PT near you

Pelvic Rehab: Find a pelvic rehab practitioner near you

Pelvic Rehab Blog

Pelvic Floor Therapy: What to Expect

Top 5 Pelvic Floor Exercises with Dr. Kristie Ennis

Yoga For Pelvic Floor - Yoga With Adriene