Constant trips to the toilet, sudden urges to pee, avoiding outings, long drives, or meetings are all signs that you might have an overactive bladder.
While it’s a common experience, that doesn’t mean it should be dismissed or ignored. Bladder symptoms can affect your comfort, confidence, and how you move through your day, and when they affect your day-to-day, they’re worth understanding.
At North West Healthy Women, we take a thoughtful, personalised approach to managing an overactive bladder. With the right care, many women find they can reduce urgency, feel more in control, and get back to doing the things that matter most.
Common symptoms of an overactive bladder
- A sudden, strong urge to urinate that feels hard to delay
- Going to the toilet more than 8 times during the day
- Waking more than once during the night to urinate
- Feeling anxious about having an accident
- Avoiding outings or activities because of your bladder
- “Just in case” toilet trips before leaving the house
- Triggered urgency
What’s involved in a physiotherapy consultation?
A pelvic floor assessment is a thorough evaluation conducted by a specialised physiotherapist to understand your specific needs and develop an effective treatment plan. Here’s what to expect:
Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process, aiming for the best possible outcomes.
Women's health clinic with a difference
Too often, women don’t feel supported or heard – and we’re here to change the narrative. We combine our expertise with a heartfelt approach to ensure you feel understood and cared for in every session.
Overactive bladder physiotherapy FAQs
How can a physiotherapist help with overactive bladder?
A women’s health physio can help uncover what’s contributing to your bladder symptoms and find an approach that suits your body and your lifestyle.
For some women, pelvic floor muscles are overactive and need support to relax. For others, calming the nervous system can help reduce the intensity of urgency and make toilet trips feel less unpredictable. In many cases, things like posture, breathing, and movement habits can also play a role in how the bladder behaves.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, and we’ll work with you to manage your symptoms at your pace, on your terms.
How do I prepare for my session?
Consider your symptoms and how they are affecting your daily life currently. You may like to keep a diary of your symptoms and your daily habits. Bringing a list of your questions and concerns can also be beneficial. Wear comfortable clothing that allows for easy movement.
What if I have my period?
If you are comfortable attending your appointment, our physios are also comfortable to continue with your session. If you feel more comfortable to wait until your period is over, we can also easily reschedule for another date.
Do I need a referral or get my doctor’s clearance?
No, you don’t need a referral or doctor’s clearance to see us. Our experienced practitioners are skilled in managing various medical conditions and will ensure all activities are safe and suitable for your situation. We collaborate closely with Brisbane Pelvic Floor Specialists and Gynecologists and are happy to coordinate with them to support your rehabilitation.
The initial appointment will usually last for about an hour. In that time, your Physiotherapist will ask about your symptoms, medical history, social history, and goals.
Depending on your symptoms your physiotherapist may assess your posture, pelvic alignment, stomach muscles, and a range of movements.
An internal examination may be advisable where symptoms are related to pelvic floor function. The Physiotherapist will explain this assessment first and you can choose whether to proceed. You can change your mind at any point.
After the assessment, the Physiotherapist will provide education on the results and a plan for treatment.
Our goal is to ensure you feel comfortable and supported throughout the process, helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Expert, compassionate overactive bladder physiotherapy
Is feeling the urge to pee and rushing to the bathroom holding you back from enjoying everyday activities? At North West Healthy Women, we can make a real difference in helping you reclaim your strength and confidence. Book an appointment today.