Leaking during exercise, difficulty emptying your bladder or pelvic discomfort can be hard to bring up. You may have been told to do pelvic floor exercises without anyone checking what the problem is or whether you are doing them appropriately.
You can start by asking for an assessment. You do not have to know the right terminology.
More squeezing is not the answer to every symptom
The pelvic floor helps support bladder and bowel function. Some problems involve weakness; others can involve muscles that are too tight or do not relax well. Pelvic pain can also have other causes that need medical assessment. Continence Health Australia explains why the cause should guide care.
If exercises hurt, you cannot identify a contraction or relaxation, or symptoms worsen, seek advice. After prostate or urological surgery, follow your surgeon’s guidance before starting exercises. Read the guidance on getting help with pelvic floor training.
What to discuss privately
Tell the clinician what happens, when it happens and what it stops you doing. Relevant details may include bladder or bowel changes, pain, pregnancy or birth history, surgery and any previous treatment. You can write these down beforehand if speaking about them feels difficult.
Ask what the assessment involves before agreeing to it. You can ask about alternatives, request a support person or chaperone, and discuss what you are comfortable with. Consent should be an ongoing conversation.
Choose a plan around your concern
Returning to running, managing leakage and addressing pain are different goals. Ask why a particular approach is recommended, how you will practise it and when it will be reviewed.
Sudden severe symptoms or new inability to pass urine need urgent medical advice rather than a routine appointment. A general article cannot distinguish the cause of a bladder or bowel change.
Pelvic-health appointments at both clinics
Pelvic-health physiotherapy is available at Runcorn and Southport. Call 1300 833 866 and mention pelvic health so the right practitioner can be confirmed. You can also read our women’s health and men’s health service information. Initial physiotherapy assessments are free; later treatment and other services may have different fees.
A guide from Enhanced Physio, 2 November 2026. General information, not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan.