While the scope is ever-evolving, pelvic floor physical therapy is a subcategory of orthopedic physical therapy. Pelvic floor physical therapy is a type of treatment that focuses on the muscles and tissues in the lower part of your abdomen and pelvis. Our main focus is helping to balance your musculoskeletal and nervous system.

While we do treat anything from the neck and hands to the foot, our main squeeze is your center of mass — more specifically, the muscles that support your bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs.

The pelvic floor consists of a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a sort of hammock at the base of your pelvis. These muscles help control bladder and bowel functions and support pelvic organs.

Sometimes, these muscles can become weak, tense, or not work properly. This can lead to issues like urinary incontinence (leaking urine), pelvic pain, or problems with sexual function.

Acute conditions, like pregnancy, postpartum and related symptoms, and chronic conditions, like endometriosis and PCOS all tend to present with imbalances that we, the pelvic therapists, are best suited to effectively manage.

Using a combination of manual therapies, dry needling techniques, strength training, and coordination training, our clients not only report their symptoms improve or resolve entirely, but they feel better connected with their bodies!

This will vary from person to person, as care is specific and unique to you and your needs. However, a standard examination will include:

• A preliminary movement exam, assessing the spine, hips, and lower extremities

• An abdominal exam

• An external pelvic floor exam

• An internal pelvic floor exam, if indicated

After the examination portion is completed to your comfort level, we will discuss findings, plan of care, and a home exercise program that works best for you and your lifestyle!

Yes! While requirements for certification to perform internal examinations vary from state to state, the team at Build & Bloom are all nationally certified to perform internal vaginal and rectal examinations through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA).

While internal examinations are not always indicated, internal examinations can be very helpful in identifying contributing factors to any pelvic symptoms you are navigating.

This examination does not require the use of stirrups or a speculum, as we do not need to see internal as your medical providers do. We are assessing muscle tone, function, and coordination with a single gloved and lubricated finger. The entirety of the exam takes less than a couple of minutes!

Yes - there have been no studies that have shown adverse effects of pelvic floor care during pregnancy, during the first, second or third trimesters! However, pelvic floor therapy has been shown to reduce pregnancy-related pain, demonstrates patient-reported improved confidence going into the birthing space, and reduces the risk of severe perineal tearing.

Anyone can receive concierge services from B&B — meaning care in the comfort of your own home. In-clinic services are typically reserved for clients of Moontower Midwifery & Wellness, but necessity is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Yes and no.

The Standard, Crescent, and Full Moon packages are exclusive to Moontower Midwifery and Wellness clients.

However, these packages include bundled services at a slightly reduced price. While the price may vary slightly to those clients who utilize one of Austin’s other incredible obstetric providers, all services are available to everyone. Cost may vary.

If there is no clinic availability at the time of your next appointment with Moontower Midwifery & Wellness, you can schedule your services at another time that works for you, or you can opt for concierge services instead - where we come to you!

Click on the Schedule Now page at the top of the site, submit a form and we’ll reach out to you!