Perimenopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Chicago

Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause, often beginning in your 40s. As estrogen levels shift, the muscles and tissues of the pelvic floor change too, and many women notice new or worsening symptoms for the first time. These changes are common, but they are not something you simply have to live with.

At our River North clinic, our pelvic floor physical therapists help you understand what is happening in your body and build the strength, control, and confidence to stay active and comfortable through this stage of life. Every visit is a full hour, one on one with your physical therapist.

Perimenopause symptoms we commonly help with

• Bladder leakage with coughing, sneezing, running, or lifting
• Sudden urges to urinate and more frequent trips to the bathroom, including at night
• Pelvic heaviness or pressure and prolapse symptoms
• Pain with intercourse and vaginal or pelvic discomfort
• Constipation and bowel changes
• Low back, hip, and pelvic pain
• Changes in strength and balance that affect exercise and daily activity
• Staying active with running, lifting, and the sports you love

When to come in

You do not need to wait for symptoms to become severe. Whether changes are just starting or have been building for years, physical therapy can help, and early care often makes symptoms easier to manage.

What to expect at your first visit

Your first visit includes a detailed conversation about your history, symptoms, and goals, along with an assessment of your posture, strength, breathing, and movement. A pelvic floor exam may be part of your evaluation, but it is always discussed with you first and done only with your consent.

From there, we build a plan that may include pelvic floor strengthening and relaxation, core and breathing work, bladder and bowel strategies, and manual therapy. We are also happy to coordinate care with your OB/GYN or primary care provider.

Related pelvic floor care

Bladder changes are one of the most common reasons women come in during perimenopause. Learn more about urinary incontinence physical therapy and sexual health and pain with intercourse, or read our blog post on perimenopause and the pelvic floor.

Explore all of our pelvic floor physical therapy services at our River North clinic.