Pelvic Floor Therapy
Pelvic Floor Therapy
Urinary incontinence becomes more common as a woman gets older, but there are strategies for successful treatment. Dr. Halfon has extensive experience in diagnosing and treating urinary incontinence so women in and around Southwest, Florida can lead healthier, more confident lives.
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What causes urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence can have several causes, but in most cases, it develops as a result of pelvic floor muscle weakness which can develop as a result of an injury, weight gain, hormonal changes, nerve or muscle issues, or even age. Vaginal birth and some types of gynecological surgery may also weaken pelvic floor muscles over time.
There are three primary types of urinary incontinence:
- Stress incontinence that causes bladder leakage during physical exertion or as a result of sneezing, coughing or laughing.
- Urge incontinence (also called overactive bladder) that causes frequent urges to urinate, even when sleeping at night.
- Mixed incontinence, which includes both stress incontinence and urge incontinence.
Different diagnostic methods are used to determine the type of incontinence that’s present so treatment can be optimized based on each patient’s unique needs and symptoms.
What is pelvic floor muscle therapy (PFMT)?
Pelvic floor therapy is a type of physical therapy or exercise program that focuses on the pelvic floor, including the muscles and connective tissues that help hold the pelvic organs (including the bladder, vagina, uterus, and rectum) in place. PFMT, is a painless treatment option which comes with a 70-80 % success rate of significantly improving symptoms and has no side effects.
Pelvic floor therapy begins with a health assessment and an examination to determine the existing strength of the pelvic floor muscles and to decide which exercises will be most beneficial in achieving results. Patients are taught how to identify and focus on their pelvic floor muscles so exercises are more effective. Pelvic floor stimulation is then performed in our office with a vaginal and/or rectal sensor. A mild electrical stimulus is used to stimulate pelvic muscles and causes a comfortable, timed contraction of the pelvic floor muscles. This will feel like a gentle tapping sensation and you will feel the muscle contract.
Who benefits from PFMT?
Bladder and pelvic issues affect millions of Americans. In Europe, the standard of care for every postpartum mom is to receive pelvic floor strengthening after she delivers a baby. The goal is to strengthen and rehabilitate the muscles of the pelvic floor thereby reducing the occurrence of postpartum incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse and to also help restore sexual function.
Recently, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologist have recommended this as a standard of care and we are so excited to be able to offer this program to our patients in the comfort and convenience of our office. Our goal is to return our patients to a life of health and independence.
PFMT can also treat other conditions:
- Stress incontinence • Urge incontinence
- Urinary frequency • Urgency
- Interstitial cystitis • Chronic pelvic pain
- Overactive bladder • Frequent nighttime urination
- Fecal incontinence • Chronic constipation
- Rectal pain • Pelvic floor relaxation
- Painful sexual intercourse • Postmenopausal atrophy
How often will I need this treatment?
After your initial visit and first treatment, you return to the office for intermittent pelvic floor stimulation treatments. These follow-up visits will take approximately 30 minutes. A positive change in your symptoms should be noticed in 3 to 4 treatments if this therapy is going to be successful for you. We recommend appointments every 1 to 2 weeks initially depending on your symptoms and progress. The average number of visits is 6 to 8.
How can I tell if I’m a good candidate for pelvic floor muscle therapy?
Talk to Dr. Halfon to determine if pelvic floor therapy is a good choice and have a routine assessment. PFMT is covered by most insurance plans and restores confidence.
Is this covered by my insurance?
Many insurances cover this service with a $0.00 out-of-pocket expense to you! Please call 561-798-4100 if you would like us to verify your benefits.
Patient Feedback
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They are the nicest, most caring people I have ever met.
Nicole A.
Dr. Halfon and his staff are absolutely amazing, I will never go anywhere else. They are the nicest, most caring people I have ever met! My friend referred me to him when she started seeing him for her pregnancy and now my cousin who is pregnant was so impressed with how he was at the hospital and during the whole pregnancy she is going to him now as well.
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Staff and Doctor are always friendly and make you feel comfortable.
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His professional character and personable demeanor make him so comforting and enjoyable. The office receptionist, along with his assistants are top notch!
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Not only does he take time to talk to you and explain everything, his staff is so on top of returning calls and calling you with test results.
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Not only does he take time to talk to you and explain everything, his staff is so on top of returning calls and calling you with test results.
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He is extremely meticulous and extremely cautious but that’s why I loved him so much! Phenomenal doctor!
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Best doctor! I felt that everyone cared about me.
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Dr. Halfon and his staff are some of the most caring people I have come across. They are always available to answer questions and always make you feel important.
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I am very satisfied with this provider, and the staff.
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Everyone is very helpful. Clean office, friendly staff, great Doctor.
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Always good service and very friendly staff.
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Dr. Halfon has been one of the most professional Dr I have seen in years. He is over concerned at times but that is a good thing because it shows how caring he is.
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Dr. Halfton and his staff were an absolute pleasure to deal with. I look forward to them providing my healthcare in the future.
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This office is the best office I have ever visited!! Everyone is so friendly and knows exactly who you are. They are very caring.
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Office staff was very pleasant and welcoming. Dr. Halfon took his time time to explain what he was going to do and didn’t make you feel rushed.
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Friendly, kind,caring environment! Dr. Halfon Rocks!!!!
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Dr Halphon has been my Ob/gyn for many, many years and he is always there for me.
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Dr. Halfon and staff treat you with kindness and respect. They always make you feel like a priority.
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I think my feedback says it all. From the doctor to his staff are wonderful. I would rate them higher if I could.
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I Felt very comfortable with Dr Halfon when I explained my problem. He was very understanding and through in his examination! He answered all my questions in depth.
