Pelvic Floor Therapy for IBS

Easing Pressure, Pain, and Bloating

If you live with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and also experience pelvic discomfort, pressure, or bladder symptoms, you're not imagining it.

Your gut and pelvic floor are closely connected—and treating them together can bring real relief.

How IBS Impacts the Pelvic Floor

Chronic bloating, gas, constipation, and urgent bowel movements can:

• Increase abdominal and pelvic pressure

• Create tension or guarding in pelvic floor muscles

• Aggravate bladder symptoms (yes, IBS can influence how often you pee)

Over time, this leads to dysfunction that physical therapy can help address.

Signs That Pelvic Floor Therapy Might Help IBS:

• Pelvic or rectal pain during or after bowel movements

• Incomplete emptying

• Leaking gas or stool

• Pressure or heaviness in the pelvis

What Treatment Looks Like

Pelvic floor PT for IBS includes:

• Education on posture, breathwork, and gut-pelvic floor connection

• Manual therapy to release tension

• Bowel massage and coordination exercises

• Collaboration with your GI provider or nutritionist (if needed)

You don’t have to live with daily discomfort. Addressing the muscle tension and nerve sensitivity behind these symptoms can make a big difference.