Radzimińska, A., Strączyńska, A., Weber-Rajek, M., Styczyńska, H., Strojek, K., & Piekorz, Z. (2018). The impact of pelvic floor muscle training on the quality of life of women with urinary incontinence: a systematic literature review. Clinical interventions in aging, 13, 957–965. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S160057 Porges S. W. (2022). Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety. Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 16, 871227. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnint.2022.871227 Schlaff, R. (2023). Trauma, Pelvic Health, and the Nervous System: The Missing Link to Holistic Mind-Body Care [PowerPoint slides]. Be Well with Rose . Retrieved on August 20, 2024. Karsten, M. D. A., Wekker, V., Bakker, A., Groen, H., Olff, M., Hoek, A., Laan, E. T. M., & Roseboom, T. J. (2020). Sexual function and pelvic floor activity in women: the role of traumatic events and PTSD symptoms. European journal of psychotraumatology, 11(1), 1764246. https://doi.org/10.1080/20008198.2020.1764246

Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic Floor Therapy in San Diego

Pelvic floor health is a vital aspect of a woman’s overall well-being and is deeply connected to physical and emotional health. At Monima Wellness, we recognize the profound impact that pelvic floor dysfunction can have on a woman’s life.

Group pelvic floor health education and exercises are available as part of our intensive outpatient program (IOP), partial hospitalization program (PHP), or outpatient program (OP) in San Diego. It is designed to address trauma, stress, anxiety, sexual health, and mental health challenges through a holistic, mind-body approach that promotes healing and enhances quality of life.

If you or a loved one is looking for a trauma treatment center in San Diego that offers education on the nervous system, pelvic health, and sexual health for women, contact Monima Wellness today. Call us at (858) 500-1542.

Understanding Pelvic Floor Therapy

Pelvic floor therapy is a targeted form of physical therapy that focuses on the muscles, ligaments, and tissues supporting the pelvic organs. These muscles control bladder and bowel functions, sexual health, and core stability. When they become weakened, tight, or uncoordinated, many symptoms can arise, affecting daily life and well-being.

At Monima Wellness, our pelvic floor group education is integrated into our comprehensive care programs and is designed to address the following:

Urinary Issues: Such as frequent urination, leakage, or a sensation of having a “small bladder.”
Bowel Dysfunction: Including constipation, stool leakage, or difficulty controlling gas.
Pain and Discomfort: Chronic low back or hip pain and pelvic pain at rest or during intimacy.
Postpartum Recovery: Conditions like diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles) and pelvic organ prolapse.
Sexual Health: Pain during intercourse, difficulty achieving orgasm, or decreased libido.

These issues are common but not normal, and effective treatment can restore your comfort and confidence.

Meet Our Pelvic Floor Therapy Expert, Dr. Rose Schlaff

At Monima Wellness, we are proud to offer pelvic floor education under the expert guidance of Dr. Rose Schlaff (she/her). With her extensive background as a Pelvic Physical Therapist and Sexologist, Dr. Rose brings a holistic approach to helping women and LGBTQ leaders overcome challenges related to pelvic health and sexual health. Her practice integrates physical, emotional, and societal aspects to support clients in reclaiming their power, confidence, and pleasure.

She has trained medical doctors, therapists, and other health and wellness practitioners all over the world in her signature Reclaim the Flame method that combines neuroscience, somatics, and integrative sex counseling to create simple 30-second science-backed rituals that help her clients create ease and excitement surrounding intimacy so they can feel confident, and connected in all areas of their relationship(s).

Dr. Rose’s expertise ensures our clients receive comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to their needs.

Dr. Rose offers group sessions and didactic trainings at Monima and, in her private practice, sees individuals, couples, and small groups virtually from all over the world who are looking to increase their desire for sex and increase their pleasure and enjoyment during intimacy.

To book your free consult for individual support, visit bewellwithrose.com/schedule-now.

The Impact of Trauma on Pelvic Health

Trauma, particularly sexual or physical trauma, can have a lasting effect on pelvic health due to the body’s natural defense mechanisms. When trauma occurs, the pelvic floor muscles may tighten as a protective response. This overactivity, while initially a defense, can lead to chronic pelvic pain, tension, and dysfunction over time.

Studies have shown that women with a history of trauma, such as PTSD, often experience higher pelvic floor muscle activity. This increased tension can result in a range of symptoms, including pain during intercourse, urinary issues, frequent UTI symptoms, and difficulty with bowel movements. Even after psychological trauma has been addressed, the physical effects on the pelvic floor may persist, requiring targeted therapy. Additionally, trauma can disrupt the nervous system’s regulation of the pelvic floor, leading to dysfunction. This connection underscores the importance of addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of trauma in treatment.

Begin Your Healing Journey

If you’ve experienced trauma and are struggling with pelvic floor dysfunction, our specialized therapy can help. At Monima Wellness, we address both the physical and emotional impacts of trauma to support your journey to recovery. Contact us today to learn how we can help you regain control and improve your quality of life.

Polyvagal Theory and the Nervous System's Role

The Polyvagal Theory provides insight into how our autonomic nervous system (ANS) influences feelings of safety and threat. According to this theory, the vagus nerve plays a key role in regulating physiological states. When the nervous system perceives danger—whether from stress, trauma, or anxiety—it can trigger a state of hypervigilance or shutdown, affecting the pelvic floor muscles.

For example:

Pelvic Floor and Defense Mechanisms: The pelvic floor muscles are part of the body’s defense system. When the nervous system is constantly alert, these muscles may remain tense, leading to dysfunction. This chronic tension can manifest as pain, urinary issues, or sexual dysfunction, often complicating the overall recovery process.
Trauma and Pelvic Pain: Even after successful PTSD treatment, many women continue to experience pelvic floor dysfunction due to the lingering effects of trauma on the nervous system. The body may remain in a state of perceived threat, preventing the pelvic floor muscles from fully relaxing and returning to normal function.
Regulation of the Nervous System: Effective pelvic floor therapy involves addressing these autonomic responses. Techniques focusing on nervous system regulation—such as functional neurology, somatic practices, and mindfulness—are essential for alleviating pelvic floor tension. These practices help calm the nervous system, reduce hypervigilance, and promote a state of safety conducive to healing.

Our therapy, group education, and therapeutic movement classes at Monima Wellness include these techniques to help regulate the nervous system, which is essential for alleviating pelvic floor tension and promoting healing. We provide comprehensive care that supports long-term recovery by addressing both the physical and neurological aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction.

Who Should Seek Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Pelvic floor therapy can benefit women at various stages of life, particularly if they experience symptoms related to the pelvic floor. This therapy is especially important for those who have:

Pain or discomfort during intimacy: Pelvic floor dysfunction often manifests as pain during sexual activities, which can significantly affect your quality of life.
History of trauma: Trauma, particularly sexual or physical, can cause chronic tension in the pelvic floor muscles, leading to long-term dysfunction.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal fluctuations due to birth control pills, menopause, or postpartum recovery can weaken or stress the pelvic floor muscles, contributing to symptoms like incontinence or prolapse.
Urinary issues: Frequent urination, urgency, or incontinence are common signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, often resulting from weakened or overactive muscles.

Bowel issues: Conditions like IBS, constipation, or other digestive disorders can be linked to pelvic floor dysfunction, as the muscles may not coordinate properly during bowel movements.
LGBTQIA health concerns: Individuals who bind, tuck, or have undergone gender-affirming surgery may experience pelvic floor issues due to the strain placed on these muscles.
Back pain: Chronic low back pain is often associated with pelvic floor dysfunction, as the muscles of the lower back and pelvic floor are interconnected.
Sexual dysfunction: Issues such as erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, or persistent genital arousal disorder may be related to pelvic floor muscle imbalances or tension.

Take The First Step Toward Healing

If you are experiencing pelvic floor-related symptoms, pelvic floor group classes at Monima Wellness could be an integral part of your recovery within our IOP, PHP, or OP programs. Addressing these issues through targeted therapy can help alleviate symptoms, improve function, and enhance overall well-being.

Benefits of Group Classes that Address Nervous System, Pelvic Health, and Sexual Health at Monima Wellness

Our approach to pelvic floor education is designed to provide comprehensive care that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of pelvic floor dysfunction. The benefits of choosing Monima Wellness include:

Mind-Body Integration: We employ techniques like functional neurology and somatic practices to address the interconnectedness of the nervous system and pelvic health. These practices help regulate the nervous system, reduce tension, and promote healing, addressing your condition’s physical and psychological aspects.
Expertise in Women’s Health: Our therapists specialize in LGBTQIA+ and women’s health, bringing a deep understanding and compassionate approach to women’s unique challenges at different life stages. Whether you’re dealing with postpartum recovery, menopause, or the effects of trauma, our team is equipped to provide the care you need.
Supportive Environment: We provide a safe, confidential space where you can explore your concerns without judgment. We aim to create an environment where you feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues and empowered to take an active role in your healing process.

By choosing Monima Wellness, you choose a comprehensive, compassionate approach to pelvic floor therapy that supports your overall well-being and long-term recovery.

What to Expect During Group Pelvic Floor and Nervous System Education Classes

When you join the PHP or IOP program at Monima Wellness, pelvic floor health can become an integral part of your personalized care. During a typical group session, you can expect:

Therapeutic Exercises: Guided exercises designed to strengthen or relax the pelvic floor muscles. These exercises help improve muscle control, reduce symptoms like pain or incontinence, and enhance overall pelvic health.
Breathing Techniques: Breathing exercises are often incorporated to help with muscle relaxation and reduce pelvic floor tension. Proper breathing can support the function of the pelvic floor muscles and promote relaxation.
Mind-Body Practices: The session may also include mindfulness practices or gentle movement exercises, which can help participants become more aware of their pelvic floor muscles and learn to control them more effectively.
Education: Throughout the session, the therapist will provide information and guidance on maintaining pelvic floor health, including tips on posture, movement, and lifestyle modifications that can support ongoing recovery.

Each session is designed to be interactive and supportive. This helps participants gradually improve their pelvic floor function while providing a safe space to discuss and address concerns.

Why Choose Monima Wellness for Comprehensive Holistic Wellness in San Diego?

At Monima Wellness, we offer a comprehensive and holistic approach to mind and body healing, uniquely tailored to meet the needs of women at any stage of their recovery journey. Our commitment to individualized care ensures that each woman receives compassionate, patient-centered treatment to address physical and emotional health.

Expert Care: Our clinical team, with extensive expertise in pelvic floor therapy, utilizes the latest techniques and evidence-based practices to deliver effective treatment.
Holistic Approach: We believe in integrating mind-body care into our therapy programs, ensuring that all aspects of your health—physical, emotional, and mental—are addressed for comprehensive healing.
A Safe Haven for Women: Located in San Diego’s serene environment, Monima Wellness provides a supportive space where women can focus on healing, ensuring consistent support throughout their treatment journey.
Transitional Living Support: Through our partnership with Ohana Recovery Residences, we offer access to a safe, transitional living environment, supporting women in maintaining their recovery as they transition back to everyday life.

Explore A Holistic Approach To Healing

If you’re struggling with mental health, trauma, or addiction, Monima Wellness is here to help. Our specialized care addresses all aspects of your healing journey, providing the support you need to reclaim your strength and improve your quality of life.

You don’t have to go through this alone—reach out to us today at 858-500-1542 to begin your path to recovery.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

References

Radzimińska, A., Strączyńska, A., Weber-Rajek, M., Styczyńska, H., Strojek, K., & Piekorz, Z. (2018). The impact of pelvic floor muscle training on the quality of life of women with urinary incontinence: a systematic literature review. Clinical interventions in aging, 13, 957–965. https://doi.org/10.2147/CIA.S160057
Porges S. W. (2022). Polyvagal Theory: A Science of Safety. Frontiers in integrative neuroscience, 16, 871227. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnint.2022.871227
Schlaff, R. (2023). Trauma, Pelvic Health, and the Nervous System: The Missing Link to Holistic Mind-Body Care [PowerPoint slides]. Be Well with Rose. Retrieved on August 20, 2024.
Karsten, M. D. A., Wekker, V., Bakker, A., Groen, H., Olff, M., Hoek, A., Laan, E. T. M., & Roseboom, T. J. (2020). Sexual function and pelvic floor activity in women: the role of traumatic events and PTSD symptoms. European journal of psychotraumatology, 11(1), 1764246. https://doi.org/10.1080/20008198.2020.1764246