Bladder and bowel concerns are common, but they are not something you have to live with.

Many people experience bladder or bowel symptoms that affect their confidence, daily activities and quality of life. While these concerns are common, they are not a normal part of ageing, pregnancy or recovery after childbirth, and effective treatment is often available.

At Better Bodies Physiotherapy, we provide assessment and treatment for a wide range of bladder and bowel concerns. Our goal is to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms and develop an individualised treatment plan to help you regain confidence and improve your quality of life.

Common bladder and bowel concerns

Pelvic health physiotherapy may be able to help with:
  • Urinary leakage (stress or urge incontinence)
  • Frequent or urgent trips to the toilet
  • Difficulty emptying your bladder completely
  • Constipation
  • Bowel leakage or difficulty controlling wind
  • Difficulty emptying your bowels
  • Pelvic floor dysfunction affecting bladder or bowel function

These symptoms can occur during pregnancy, after childbirth, following prostate surgery, during menopause, or for many other reasons.

How can physiotherapy help?

Pelvic health physiotherapy focuses on identifying the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms rather than simply managing them.

Following a comprehensive assessment, treatment may include:
  • Pelvic floor muscle training
  • Bladder and bowel retraining strategies
  • Education about healthy bladder and bowel habits
  • Advice on fluid intake and toileting techniques
  • Breathing and pressure management
  • Individualised exercise rehabilitation
  • Lifestyle advice to support long-term symptom management

Every treatment plan is tailored to your symptoms, goals and stage of recovery.

Learn more about our Pelvic Health Physiotherapy service and how we can support your recovery.
More information:


Book an appointment

If bladder or bowel concerns are affecting your daily life, you don't have to manage them alone.

Our pelvic health physiotherapists provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help you better understand your symptoms and achieve your goals.

Book an appointment with Better Bodies Physiotherapy in Palmerston North today.

Bladder & Bowel FAQ

Will I need an internal pelvic floor assessment?
Not always. Your physiotherapist will discuss your symptoms and explain whether an internal assessment would be beneficial. Internal examinations are only performed with your informed consent and are not required for every appointment.
Do I need a referral to see a pelvic health physiotherapist?
No. You can book directly with Better Bodies Physiotherapy without a referral. If your symptoms are due to a maternal birth injury, you may be covered by ACC, we'll discuss this with you during your appointment and help guide you through the process if appropriate.
Can physiotherapy help bladder leakage?
Yes. Physiotherapy is considered a first-line treatment for many types of urinary incontinence. Pelvic floor rehabilitation, education and bladder retraining strategies can significantly improve symptoms for many people.
Are bladder and bowel concerns common?
Yes. Bladder and bowel symptoms are common. However, common does not mean it has to be your normal, and many symptoms can be successfully treated with pelvic health physiotherapy.
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06 281 3511
216 Ferguson Street, Palmerston North
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