For many women, issues like bladder leakage, pelvic pain or discomfort after pregnancy are quietly endured rather than openly discussed. But at St. Clair Health, a growing focus on pelvic floor therapy is helping change that — offering relief, education and a path back to everyday confidence for patients across the South Hills, including Mt. Lebanon.

Pelvic floor dysfunction affects women at every stage of life, from young athletes to new mothers to those navigating menopause. Symptoms can include urinary leakage, frequent trips to the bathroom, constipation, pelvic pain and even discomfort during everyday activities.

“These are things that impact quality of life in a big way,” explained occupational therapist Jessica Hammond, who specializes in pelvic floor therapy with St. Clair. “But they’re often brushed off as something you just have to live with. And that’s simply not true.”

Pelvic floor therapy is a specialized, highly individualized form of care that addresses the muscles, tissues and coordination involved in bladder, bowel and core function. At St. Clair, the approach goes beyond just treating symptoms.

“We really look at the whole person,” Hammond said. “It’s not just about stopping leakage or reducing pain. It’s about helping patients understand their bodies, how everything works together, and why dysfunction may be happening in the first place.”

This holistic approach considers physical, lifestyle and even emotional factors that may be contributing to symptoms.

One of the key messages from the pelvic floor therapy team is that this care isn’t just for one specific group. It’s for women across the lifespan: Those that are pregnant or postpartum, active and athletic women and women who are in midlife and beyond.

“You don’t have to wait until something becomes severe,” Hammond noted. “The earlier you understand your body, the better you can prevent future issues.”

Pelvic floor therapy at St. Clair Health is tailored to each individual patient; there’s no one-size-fits-all plan.

During an initial visit, patients work one-on-one with a therapist to discuss symptoms, goals and daily challenges. From there, a personalized plan may include education about pelvic health and function, targeted exercises and movement strategies, techniques to improve muscle coordination and control and guidance on posture, activity and lifestyle habits.

Sessions typically last about an hour and many patients begin to see meaningful improvement within four to six visits, though plans are adjusted based on individual needs.

Hammond also pointed out that while Kegel exercises are often associated with pelvic health, they’re not always the right solution, and in some cases may even be counterproductive.

“The pelvic floor is like any other muscle group,” she said. “It needs to move through a full range of motion. For some people, strengthening is important. For others, it’s about learning to relax or coordinate those muscles properly.”

That’s why an evaluation with a trained therapist can be key to getting the right approach.

Ultimately, what sets St. Clair apart is its integrated model of care. Pelvic floor therapists work closely with physicians in urology, gynecology and primary care to ensure patients receive comprehensive support.

The program includes multiple specialists and convenient locations, including the Dunlap Family Outpatient Center on Bower Hill Road and the St. Clair Health Outpatient Center in Bethel Park making care more accessible for local residents.

“We recognize that these issues can be complex,” Hammond said. “Sometimes it involves coordination with other providers, and we’re not afraid to bring in the right resources to fully support the patient.”

Despite how common pelvic floor issues are, many women still hesitate to seek help. That’s something Hammond and her colleagues hope to change.

“Don’t be afraid to talk to your doctor,” she said. “And don’t hesitate to ask about pelvic floor therapy, even if it’s not brought up right away.”

For women in Mt. Lebanon and surrounding communities, the message is simple: Help is available, and you don’t have to live with discomfort or disruption.

Whether it’s returning to exercise without worry, managing postpartum recovery or simply feeling more comfortable day to day, pelvic floor therapy can make a meaningful difference.

And often, it starts with just one conversation.

For more information about the Rehabilitation Services or to request an appointment visit stclair.org or call 412.942.4060