Learn about the pelvic floor after hysterectomy as Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, shares her insights.

Episode Summary

In this episode, Dr. Jocelyn Wallace, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and pelvic floor specialist, discusses the importance of the pelvic floor in women's health. She sheds light on the pelvic floor, especially in the context of hysterectomy. 

Dr. Wallace talks about managing pelvic floor changes that can occur after a hysterectomy. She discusses the value of comprehensive preoperative and postoperative care, including strategies for preventing complications like pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. Dr. Wallace also offers practical advice on pelvic floor therapy for women, lifestyle changes, and advocating for personalized care for the pelvic floor.

Key Discussion Points on the Tie Between Hysterectomy and Pelvic Health:

• The fundamental role of the pelvic floor in supporting essential organs and maintaining women's health.
• Common pelvic floor exercises after hysterectomy and how to seek pelvic floor therapy.
• How a hysterectomy can affect pelvic floor function and increase the risk of complications like pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and sexual function.
• Why preoperative pelvic floor therapy is crucial for strengthening muscles and reducing potential complications post-surgery.
• The importance of a structured recovery plan including exercises, therapy, and lifestyle changes to optimize pelvic health after surgery.
• How to advocate for comprehensive pelvic care before and after a hysterectomy to find an approach that suits your unique health needs.
• Ways to navigate changes in sexual health post-hysterectomy.

“A hysterectomy significantly changes the pelvic anatomy. It's crucial to be aware of these changes and their potential effects on bladder and bowel function.” - Dr Jocelyn Wallace

Related to this episode:

• Resources and episodes on Pelvic Health
• Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause
• Listen to Life Before and After Hysterectomy with Dr. Zoe Rodriguez
• Learn more about Dr. Jocelyn Wallace and follow her on Instagram
• Take the Pelvic Floor Questionnaire

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Guest Bio

Dr. Jocelyn Wallace is on a mission to redefine the care people receive before and after pelvic surgery. As a Doctor of Physical Therapy, pelvic floor specialist + long time fitness coach, she helps women find healing after hysterectomy, so they can get back to the things they love with safety and confidence.

**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.**