Breaking the Silence: How Physiotherapy Can Help with Bladder Leaks

Bladder leakage is something many women experience at different stages of life, yet it’s rarely spoken about openly. Whether it happens after childbirth, during exercise, or with age, urinary incontinence can feel embarrassing and isolating. The truth is, bladder leaks are common but they are not something you have to put up with. Support is available, and one of the most effective approaches is urinary incontinence physiotherapy.

Why bladder leakage happens

Urinary incontinence occurs when the muscles and tissues that support the bladder and urethra are weakened or not functioning as they should. This weakness may be linked to:

• Pregnancy and childbirth, which stretch the pelvic floor

• Hormonal changes during menopause

• High-impact sports or heavy lifting

• Chronic coughing or straining

• Age-related muscle changes

When these factors combine, the pelvic floor loses its ability to properly control bladder function, leading to small leaks or sudden urges that are difficult to manage.

The emotional toll of bladder leaks

Many women assume that bladder leakage is just part of ageing or motherhood. However, the reality is that incontinence can affect confidence, relationships, and day-to-day life. Some women avoid exercise or social events out of fear of leakage. Others may feel uncomfortable discussing the issue, even with their doctor. Recognising that this is a medical condition and not a personal failing is the first step towards recovery.

How physiotherapy helps restore control

At Praxis Rehab Belair, Physiotherapist Sangeeta Sharda specialises in helping women overcome pelvic floor challenges through gentle, evidence-based care. With urinary incontinence physiotherapy, treatment usually includes:

• Pelvic floor muscle training – targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles that support bladder control.

• Bladder retraining – helping reset bladder habits to reduce urgency and frequency.

• Education and lifestyle advice – from correct lifting techniques to managing fluid intake.

• Breathing and posture strategies – reducing pressure on the bladder during daily movements.

• Supportive therapies – such as biofeedback, relaxation, or manual techniques if needed.

These treatments are non-invasive and designed around your personal comfort and lifestyle.

What to expect in a session

Your first appointment at Praxis Rehab focuses on understanding your history, symptoms, and goals. Physiotherapist Sangeeta Sharda will explain how the bladder and pelvic floor work, and may recommend an internal pelvic assessment but this is always optional and guided by your comfort. Together, you’ll develop a personalised plan to regain bladder control and confidence.

Why early support matters

The sooner you seek help for bladder leakage, the easier it is to restore pelvic floor function and prevent the problem from worsening. Many women notice improvements within weeks of starting urinary incontinence physiotherapy, and small lifestyle changes can have a big impact on long-term bladder health.

Final thoughts

Bladder leakage may be common, but it is not something you need to accept as a normal part of life. With the right guidance from Physiotherapist Sangeeta Sharda at Praxis Rehab Belair, you can take back control, rebuild confidence, and return to the activities you enjoy without fear of leaks.

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References:

Hayman, M., Thornton, L., O'Hara, B., et al. (2023). A scoping study of public health guidelines from around the globe for physical activity in pregnancy. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 57(14), 940-949. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2022-106216