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Pelvic Health Matters with Dr. Katrina Heath, DPT is a biweekly series dedicated to raising awareness and providing expert insight into pelvic floor health for both men and women. Dr. Heath explores the often-overlooked connection between pelvic health and overall wellness—covering topics like pain, incontinence, posture, core strength, and more. With practical advice and a compassionate approach, she empowers viewers to understand their bodies, break the stigma, and take charge of their health at every stage of life.
How many people have ever questioned what POP is? If you are familiar with this you may know that it is commonly referred to as “prolapse”. Pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) can lead to POP, a condition where pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum descend into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic floor muscles. This weakening can result from trauma, surgeries, increased abdominal pressure, chronic straining (especially with childbirth), constipation, and other factors that stress the pelvic region.
Prolapse is often characterized by a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvis, discomfort, and sometimes visible bulging inside the vaginal canal. While surgery is a common treatment, non-surgical options are available and encouraged by pelvic therapists. This can be effective in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Exercise plays a crucial role in strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, which can provide better support for pelvic organs. Pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, specifically target these muscles, enhancing their strength and function. Consistent practice can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further progression of prolapse.Hypopressive exercises, which focus on reducing intra-abdominal pressure while engaging the core and pelvic floor, can also be beneficial. These exercises help in improving posture, muscle tone, and core stability, reducing the strain on the pelvic floor.
In addition to exercises, lifestyle modifications such as managing constipation, avoiding heavy lifting, and maintaining a healthy weight can prevent exacerbating prolapse symptoms. Consulting a pelvic floor physical therapist can provide support in managing prolapse, empowering individuals to regain control over their pelvic health. If you are looking to manage POP in the Lake Norman area, please contact Dr. Katrina Heath for a consultation at [email protected] or 704-412-2001.
Katrina Heath, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) LKNConnect’s newest expert contributor. With over 23 years of experience in pelvic health physical therapy, Dr. Heath has served patients across North Carolina, Michigan, and New Jersey. She brings a wealth of knowledge from her time at Atrium Health and Penn Medicine, where she helped launch a pediatric pelvic floor program. We’re excited for her to share expert insight and wellness tips with our Lake Norman community— Mondays on LKNConnect!
Dr. Katrina Heath – Mobile Physical Therapist
Contact Information
Phone: 704-412-2001
Email: [email protected]
