Dr Sarah Mattin, aka The Fanny Physio physiotherapist, researcher, and all-round pelvic floor powerhouse. With over 25 years working with bodies, she’s opened Australia’s first Pelvic Floor Acupuncture Clinic and is smashing taboos aboutwomen’s health.
We dive into what really happens as we age, from incontinence to orgasms, and how reconnecting to our pelvic power changes everything.
If you’ve got a fanny, this chat’s for you.
Jennifer introduces Sarah Mattin, a physiotherapistspecializing in women's pelvic health, also known as the "Fanny Physio". Sarah has extensive experience in kinesiology, psychology, athletic therapy, and physiotherapy, and is opening Australia's first pelvic floor acupuncture clinic. They will discuss the taboos and truths around women's aging, pelvic power, incontinence, and more.
The Taboo Around Pelvic Floor Health @ 4:20
Jennifer and Sarah discuss why the pelvic floor is often a"dirty secret" that women don't talk about, despite its importance. Sarah explains that the pelvic floor is a "powerhouse" that many people don't understand or engage with, often due to societal taboos and lack of education from a young age.
Types of Incontinence and Causes @ 7:09
Sarah explains the differences between stress incontinence(leakage from coughing, sneezing, etc.) and urge incontinence (sudden, uncontrollable urges to urinate). She also discusses nocturia, or frequent nighttime urination. Factors like sedentary lifestyles, dehydration, and constipation can contribute to incontinence issues.
Pelvic Floor Acupuncture and Neuromodulation @ 19:29
Sarah describes her specialized pelvic floor acupuncturetechnique, which involves inserting needles in the perineal area and connecting them to a TENS machine to stimulate the nerves and muscles. This helps "wake up" the pelvic floor and improve function.
Pelvic Floor Changes with Aging and Hormones @ 26:08
Using a graph, Sarah explains how the pelvic floor cangradually lose tone and function over time, especially during and after childbearing years. Hormonal changes during menopause can further exacerbate pelvic floor issues if not properly addressed.
Holistic Approach and Resources @ 38:55
Sarah emphasizes the importance of a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach to pelvic floor health, involving collaboration between different practitioners. She also highlights various resources and tools like the Perifit device that can help women engage and strengthen theirpelvic floors.
Recap and Call to Action @ 44:39
Jennifer and Sarah conclude by encouraging listeners tofollow Sarah, reach out for assessments and treatment, and be proactive about pelvic floor health, as it can have a significant impact on quality of life. They stress the need to break the taboo and normalise discussions around theseimportant women's health topics.
Connect with Dr Sarah Mattin
Instagram
@gcsmrehab
@mummyandmephysio
@fannyphysiodownunder
Facebook:
Gold Coast Sports Medicine & Rehabilitation
Mummy & Me: Physio & Pilates
Websites:
www.gcsmr.com.au
www.thefannyphysio.com.au
Podcast: The Fanny Physio: Down Under Edition