Sex and Pelvic Floor Health – What You Need to Know

Your pelvic floor muscles do more than support your bladder, bowels, and core—they also play a critical role in sexual function. These muscles, which run from the pubic bone to the tailbone, help control blood flow, vaginal tone, and sensation. When functioning properly, they contribute to comfortable, pleasurable intimacy. However, when there is dysfunction—whether from weakness, tightness, or trauma—issues like pain with intercourse (dyspareunia), reduced sensation, and even difficulty achieving orgasm can arise.

An overly tight pelvic floor can lead to painful penetration, a burning sensation, or a feeling of restriction. This can occur due to stress, chronic muscle tension, trauma, or even overuse of Kegel exercises. On the other hand, a weakened pelvic floor may result in decreased vaginal tone, less sensation, and even urinary leakage during sex. Factors like pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and pelvic surgeries can all impact the function of these muscles.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help by identifying and addressing imbalances. If the muscles are too tight, we use techniques such as myofascial release, breathing exercises, and guided relaxation to improve tissue flexibility and reduce pain. If the muscles are weak, we focus on functional strengthening to improve support and enhance sensation. Additionally, pelvic floor therapy can improve circulation and tissue hydration, both of which are essential for healthy sexual function. If you’re experiencing discomfort or changes in your intimate health, know that solutions exist—we’re here to help!

March brings with it the promise of warmer weather, positive energy and hopefully some good luck!

This spring, let’s celebrate the new season with taking care of yourself! At Revive Rehab, we believe that prioritizing your health and wellness is the best way to do just that. Whether you’ve successfully completed your plan of care and are ready for a refresher visit, would like to extend your visits, are looking to get started or simply just want a check in to see how you are progressing, we are here for you!

If you’re still on your journey toward recovery and confidence, know that every step you take is a reason to be proud. As a valued client, you have an opportunity to take advantage of our march special offers! Let’s make this spring season all about you and your well-being!

March Special Package Deals

🍀4 Discounted Follow up visits: $650 (save $90)
🍀8 Discounted Follow up visits $ 1250 (save $230)

💚Bonus: Lucky Leprechaun Credit Promos💚
🍀Buy $100 credit, get $25
🍀Buy $250 credit, get $100

(offer good with purchase 3/11/25-3/31/25 only, but can be used at anytime)

📞 Call us today at(843) 881-1147 or email info@reviverehabpt.com, to snag your deal before it’s gone!

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Tailbone Pain (Coccydynia) – What You Need to Know

Tailbone pain is a common concern that many women face, and we understand how debilitating it can be. At Revive Rehab, we empathize with your struggles and are here to provide support. Tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia, is a common yet often overlooked issue that can significantly impact a woman's quality of life. This discomfort, which can arise from various causes such as prolonged sitting, injury (direct fall), or childbirth may lead to challenges in daily activities and overall well-being. Symptoms of coccydynia often include: pain localized to the tailbone or low back, pain with sitting especially on hard surfaces, pain worsening from sitting to standing, pain with activities such as driving, difficulty with bowel movements or pain with sexual intercourse. Pelvic floor physical therapy specializes in the muscles ligaments and connective tissues in the pelvic region aiming to improve the function and coordination of these structures to alleviate pain and restore normal movement patterns. This treatment is always individualized however typically involves the following:

1. Muscle relaxation: as tailbone pain is often linked to significantly tight pelvic floor muscles. This is often accomplished with specific manual therapy techniques to the pelvic floor muscles and tailbone itself
2. Strengthening and stabilization: specific exercises to target the muscles that provide support to the pelvis: the glutes, core and hips to reduce strain on the coccyx itself
3. Posture and alignment: improving sitting and standing posture to reduce strain on the tailbone and promote proper alignment of the spine
4. Education: our patients are always educated on proper lifestyle modifications and body mechanics for long last results

At Revive Rehab, our dedicated team understands the intricacies of tailbone pain and is committed to addressing it through a holistic approach that considers both physical and emotional aspects of health. We believe that understanding the root causes of your pain is the first step towards effective treatment, and we are here to empower you with knowledge and personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our compassionate approach to women's health challenges ensures that you receive the support and guidance necessary to reclaim your comfort and confidence. We invite you to reach out and learn more about how we can assist you in navigating your journey towards relief and improved quality of life.

Sex and Pelvic Floor Health – What You Need to Know

Your pelvic floor muscles do more than support your bladder, bowels, and core—they also play a critical role in sexual function. These muscles, which run from the pubic bone to the tailbone, help control blood flow, vaginal tone, and sensation. When functioning properly, they contribute to comfortable, pleasurable intimacy. However, when there is dysfunction—whether from weakness, tightness, or trauma—issues like pain with intercourse (dyspareunia), reduced sensation, and even difficulty achieving orgasm can arise.

An overly tight pelvic floor can lead to painful penetration, a burning sensation, or a feeling of restriction. This can occur due to stress, chronic muscle tension, trauma, or even overuse of Kegel exercises. On the other hand, a weakened pelvic floor may result in decreased vaginal tone, less sensation, and even urinary leakage during sex. Factors like pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and pelvic surgeries can all impact the function of these muscles.

Pelvic floor physical therapy can help by identifying and addressing imbalances. If the muscles are too tight, we use techniques such as myofascial release, breathing exercises, and guided relaxation to improve tissue flexibility and reduce pain. If the muscles are weak, we focus on functional strengthening to improve support and enhance sensation. Additionally, pelvic floor therapy can improve circulation and tissue hydration, both of which are essential for healthy sexual function. If you’re experiencing discomfort or changes in your intimate health, know that solutions exist—we’re here to help!

The Importance of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy After Childbirth

The postpartum period is a time of incredible transformation, not just for welcoming your new baby but for your body’s recovery as well. Pregnancy and childbirth—whether vaginal or via C-section—place significant strain on the pelvic floor, abdominal muscles, and surrounding structures. These muscles support essential functions like bladder control, organ support, and core stability, and they may become weakened, stretched, or injured during delivery.

Common postpartum challenges include urinary leakage, painful intercourse, pelvic pressure, and abdominal separation (diastasis recti). Even mothers who feel “fine” after delivery can benefit from pelvic floor therapy, as subtle dysfunctions can develop into more significant issues over time, such as prolapse or chronic pelvic pain.

Pelvic floor therapy offers a holistic approach to postpartum recovery. Our skilled therapists assess your muscle function, address scar tissue from C-sections or episiotomies, and create tailored programs to restore strength, mobility, and coordination. By prioritizing early intervention, we can help you rebuild your foundation, improve your quality of life, and prevent future complications.

Remember, taking care of your health isn’t selfish—it’s an essential part of caring for your family. Let us partner with you on this journey to recovery and wellness.

Did You Know?

It is a well-established practice in healthcare to refer individuals to physical or occupational therapy following various injuries or post-operative conditions, with specific rehabilitation protocols tailored to each procedure or injury. Here are some of the most common rehab types and their most common frequencies:

Cardiac Rehab: 2-3x/week for 12 weeks
Post Total Knee Joint Replacement: 3x/week for 12 weeks
Post Total Hip Joint Replacement: 2x/week for 6-8 weeks
General Knee Scope Rehab: 2x/week for 6-8 weeks
Post Rotator Cuff Repair Rehab: 2-3x/week for 4-6 months

In light of this, it is imperative that we advocate for pelvic floor therapy to be recognized as a standard component of care for women experiencing related health issues. At Revive Rehab, we encourage individuals to take an active role in their health, whether for themselves or for loved ones, by reaching out to discuss any concerns regarding pelvic floor symptoms. If surgery has been presented as the sole option for relief, we urge you to explore pelvic floor therapy as a viable and effective alternative before resorting to more invasive measures. Your health matters, and we are here to provide support and guidance on this important aspect of women's health.

The holidays are upon us! While it’s the season for celebration, the extra food, drinks, and stress can leave you feeling a little off. But don’t worry—Revive Rehab has you covered with tips. We are also extending our BLACK FRIDAY special until December 31st to help you feel your best.

December Special - Holiday Stress Relief Package*

This December, we’re offering a Holiday Stress Relief Package designed to melt away the tension:

• 4 customized visits to address your pelvic health needs
• A FREE pelvic wand or tissue release ball to help with home self-care
• Dry needling and cupping as needed for extra relief
• Stay ahead of the holiday madness and book your package now!

Are you a current client and know that you want more sessions in the new year? Take advantage of

$100 OFF ANY PACKAGE*

*Packages honored for future use as long as purchase is made by December 31, 2024. Reach out to our office or message in your patient portal to purchase.

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Holiday Tip: Managing Constipation & Bloat

It’s easy to feel bloated and sluggish with all the festive treats around. But constipation can impact your pelvic health more than you think! Here’s how you can manage it:

1. Stay Hydrated: Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day—especially if you’re indulging in holiday cocktails or rich meals.
2. Incorporate Fiber-Rich Foods: Think leafy greens, nuts, avocado, fruits (with skin) and whole grains to keep things moving.
3. Try This Simple Drink:

Holiday Digestive Tonic

• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1/4 cup coconut water or orange juice (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• A dash of cinnamon and ginger
• A squeeze of lemon
• Sip this before a big meal to help improve digestion and reduce bloating!

Exercise for December: The Happy Baby Pose
Happy Baby Pose

• Lie on your back and bring your knees toward your chest.
• Grab the outside of your feet with your hands, allowing your knees to open wide. If you can't reach your feet, keep legs wide and grab behind knees.
• Hold for 30 seconds, breathing deeply, and let the tension melt away.
• Repeat 2-3 times.

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HOLIDAY HOURS:

December 23rd: limited hours
December 24th-December 27: CLOSED
December 30th-January 3rd: limited hours with Dr. Jenn | Dr. Allie Out of Office

January

Happy New Year! We hope everyone had a safe and happy holiday season! We’re kicking off 2025 with renewed energy and focus on helping you achieve your health and wellness goals.

News & Updates

With winter storms possible in our area over the next few days, we want to ensure the safety of all our clients and staff. If inclement weather arises, we’ll reach out to confirm any schedule adjustments or rescheduling needs. Please ensure your contact information is up to date so we can stay connected.

The Importance of Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy After Childbirth

The postpartum period is a time of incredible transformation, not just for welcoming your new baby but for your body’s recovery as well. Pregnancy and childbirth—whether vaginal or via C-section—place significant strain on the pelvic floor, abdominal muscles, and surrounding structures. These muscles support essential functions like bladder control, organ support, and core stability, and they may become weakened, stretched, or injured during delivery.

Common postpartum challenges include urinary leakage, painful intercourse, pelvic pressure, and abdominal separation (diastasis recti). Even mothers who feel “fine” after delivery can benefit from pelvic floor therapy, as subtle dysfunctions can develop into more significant issues over time, such as prolapse or chronic pelvic pain.

Pelvic floor therapy offers a holistic approach to postpartum recovery. Our skilled therapists assess your muscle function, address scar tissue from C-sections or episiotomies, and create tailored programs to restore strength, mobility, and coordination. By prioritizing early intervention, we can help you rebuild your foundation, improve your quality of life, and prevent future complications.

Remember, taking care of your health isn’t selfish—it’s an essential part of caring for your family. Let us partner with you on this journey to recovery and wellness.

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Did You Know?

It is a well-established practice in healthcare to refer individuals to physical or occupational therapy following various injuries or post-operative conditions, with specific rehabilitation protocols tailored to each procedure or injury. Here are some of the most common rehab types and their most common frequencies:

Cardiac Rehab: 2-3x/week for 12 weeks
Post Total Knee Joint Replacement: 3x/week for 12 weeks
Post Total Hip Joint Replacement: 2x/week for 6-8 weeks
General Knee Scope Rehab: 2x/week for 6-8 weeks
Post Rotator Cuff Repair Rehab: 2-3x/week for 4-6 months

In light of this, it is imperative that we advocate for pelvic floor therapy to be recognized as a standard component of care for women experiencing related health issues. At Revive Rehab, we encourage individuals to take an active role in their health, whether for themselves or for loved ones, by reaching out to discuss any concerns regarding pelvic floor symptoms. If surgery has been presented as the sole option for relief, we urge you to explore pelvic floor therapy as a viable and effective alternative before resorting to more invasive measures. Your health matters, and we are here to provide support and guidance on this important aspect of women's health.

As we step into November, let's pause to give thanks for the gift of good health. Whether you’re taking steps to heal your body or simply maintaining your pelvic floor wellness, your health journey deserves celebration. At Revive Rehab, we’re here to support you every step of the way!

November Special - Gratitude for Health

This month, we're launching our Gratitude for Health referral special. It's simple:

• Refer a friend or family member, and when they become a patient, you'll receive a $35 credit!
• Refer two friends, and we'll bump that credit up to $75.
• Refer three or more friends or family members, and you’ll receive $125 in credits!

That’s right, your gratitude can give you (and your loved ones) the gift of better health.

(just have them mention your name, or you can track your referrals here)

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Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) Awareness

Did you know that 1 in 3 women will experience Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) in their lifetime? It’s more common than you might think, and while it can feel intimidating, the right care can make a huge difference. POP happens when one or more of the pelvic organs (the bladder, uterus, and rectum) drop due to weakened muscles and tissues, falling into the vaginal canal.

There are many symptoms associated with POP, including: painful intercourse, frequent urination, pelvic pain, pressure, heaviness, feeling of something low in the vagina, low back/hip/tailbone pain, and more.

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition that affects many women and can arise from various factors, including pregnancy and childbirth, a history of trauma, a genetic predisposition to more elastic connective tissue, and inadequate pressure management in the abdominal region. POP is classified into different grades, ranging from mild to severe, which can lead to significant concerns among those affected, particularly regarding the need for surgical intervention. It's important to emphasize that while each individual's situation is unique, surgery is not always the primary or sole solution for managing POP. Many women successfully live their lives while effectively managing their symptoms, and some even experience a reduction in the severity of their prolapse through non-surgical approaches. For those who may ultimately require surgery, engaging in personalized pelvic floor therapy prior to the procedure can significantly enhance preparation and recovery, especially in addressing underlying pressure management issues that could otherwise lead to persistent symptoms post-surgery.

Here’s a quick exercise to help improve your pelvic floor function to reduce POP symptoms:

Squat with Hip Hinge

1. Start Position: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, toes slightly turned out, and arms at your sides.
2. Squat: Begin by hinging at your hips (like you're about to sit back in a chair), keeping your back straight, ribs down, and knees slightly bent, feeling the glutes stretch.
3. Inhale on the Way Down: As you lower into a squat position, take a deep inhale. Imagine your breath expanding and opening your ribcage, allowing your pelvic floor to naturally relax and lengthen.
4. Exhale and Engage on the Way Up: As you exhale, press through your heels to stand up, keeping your toes on the ground - this will help fire up those glutes! Focus on gently engaging your pelvic floor (like you're lightly lifting it) and your core as you rise.
5. Repeat: Perform 10-15 repetitions, ensuring that each time you exhale, you're coordinating it with the gentle engagement of your pelvic floor on the upward movement.

Why It Works: This exercise trains you to avoid unnecessary downward pressure on the pelvic floor while lifting, reducing the risk of worsening Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Mindful breathing paired with gentle engagement helps support your pelvic organs and strengthens key muscles.

Want More Info?

If you suspect you have POP or want a tailored plan, book a session with us, and we’ll guide you through treatment options.

Celebrating Two Years of Revive Rehab!

We’re excited to share that Revive Rehab has just celebrated its two-year anniversary! In this time, we’ve had the honor of helping over 300 women in the Lowcountry improve their health and function, and we couldn’t have done it without your support.

Today, we’ll be sharing some personal news from our team and dive into an important topic: the pelvic floor. Understanding its role in your overall health is key, and we’re here to provide insights and tips for better pelvic floor wellness. Read on to learn more!

Personal Update: Welcome, Baby Girl! 💖

We’re so excited to share that our own Dr. Jenn recently welcomed her third child—a beautiful baby girl! Both mom and baby are doing well. Dr. Jenn will be returning part-time starting October 14th, ready to continue supporting our community with her expertise and compassion.

What Is the Pelvic Floor?

Whether you've heard this from us before, or this is new information to you, we are going to start off with a recap and some education: what exactly is the pelvic floor? Simply put, it’s a group of muscles and connective tissues that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs, as well as your pelvis and spine. When these muscles are functioning optimally, they contribute to your overall health and well-being.

The pelvic floor muscles can help you with what we call the 5 S's:

• Support
• Sphincter
• Sexual
• Stability
• Sump Pump

1. The pelvic floor offers support to hold up the organs of the pelvic floor: your bladder (urine), rectum (bowels/stool), and reproductive organs. Without this support, you may be at risk for leakage of urine or stool, and a condition called pelvic organ prolapse, also just called prolapse or POP.
2. Several of the muscles of the pelvic floor are called sphincteric muscles, and act to relax to allow for urine or stool to pass, and contract to a resting state to hold urine and stool in until you are ready to go. Problems with these muscles can also lead to leaks or prolapse - but not just from these muscles being too "loose". Tension in these muscles can also cause a heap of problems.
3. Sexual function and health can be attributed to not only hormonal health, but also to our pelvic floor. The big "O" is a series of muscle contraction and relaxation, for example. Having muscles that are either too tense, have trigger points, or cannot contract can prevent optimal sexual function.
4. Stabilization of the hips, pelvis and spine not only come from the large muscles surrounding these joints, but the pelvic floor muscles have numerous connections to these areas. If you have unresolved pain in any of these regions, oftentimes there is a missing piece coming from your pelvic floor.
5. Did you know your pelvic floor muscles can help with circulation? Just like your lower leg muscles help return blood to your heart, so can the pelvic floor muscles. There are some cases where if these muscles aren't functioning well, pelvic congestion and blood flow impairments can lead to pain, swelling, and affect all the other above functions.

Pelvic floor PT can help address a variety of issues, from incontinence and pelvic pain to pregnancy-related concerns and post-surgical recovery. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and tools that enhance your quality of life.

Take-Home Tip for Pelvic Floor Health:

Breathe Deeply

One of the simplest, yet most effective ways to support your pelvic floor, is through mindful breathing. Practicing deep, diaphragmatic breathing can help relax your pelvic floor muscles and improve their function.

Try taking a few moments each day to focus on your breath:

• Inhale deeply through your nose, allowing your rib cage to expand and open 360 degrees (like an umbrella opening).
• Exhale fully through your mouth, allowing your ribs to close back together, and letting your belly button come in towards the spine and gently rise. Try making a gentle, audible sound like a "hummm", "ahhh", "haaa", or "tssss".

This can not only work your true breathing muscles, but can create a sense of calm and connection with your body.

We are deeply humbled and honored to announce that we have been awarded the Best of South Carolina 2024 for Physical Therapy. This recognition is a testament to the unwavering support of our ever-growing community. Thanks to you, our dedicated clients and supporters, our efforts and passion have been recognized. We cannot wait to continue serving our community and working towards our goal of making this type of care standard, bringing meaningful impact to our patients' lives. We are truly grateful for your trust and commitment.

The Best of South Carolina awards showcase businesses working hard to take care of their customers and community. Revive Rehab is excited to have been nominated! Vote at guidetosouthcarolina.com or click the image above to cast your vote. Thank you for all of your love and support!
#BESTofSC