Guest Episode: Beyond the Taboo: Reclaiming Control of Your Pelvic Health

Episode 61Pelvic floor health remains one of the most under-discussed aspects of women's wellness, yet affects one in three women. In this eye-opening episode, Julie and Catherine welcome women's health physiotherapist and nutritionist Chloe Stevens for a candid, myth-busting conversation about all things pelvic health.Chloe swiftly dismantles common misconceptions, explaining that pelvic floor dysfunction isn't always about weakness—some women have overactive floors that don't relax properly. She skillfully navigates the complex relationship between childbirth, perimenopause, hormonal fluctuations and pelvic health, while offering practical, evidence-based solutions that go far beyond basic Kegel exercises.Perhaps most refreshingly, Chloe challenges the outdated advice that women should avoid exercise or heavy lifting. Drawing from her MSc research and clinical experience, she advocates for a balanced approach that empowers women to stay active while managing symptoms effectively. "No one's going to die of a prolapse," she points out, "but if you don't exercise, you risk sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and fractures—that might ultimately kill you."For women navigating perimenopause, Chloe explains how estrogen fluctuations directly impact pelvic floor function and offers practical strategies for managing symptoms, including the powerful combination of physiotherapy and topical estrogen. She compassionately acknowledges the shame many women feel while firmly rejecting the notion that incontinence or prolapse should be accepted as inevitable parts of aging.Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or simply want to take preventative measures, this conversation provides the knowledge and confidence to advocate for yourself. As Chloe powerfully concludes, "We really shouldn't be accepting incontinence or prolapse as part of being a woman, and there are really simple things that can make a world of difference."Make sure you connect with Chloe through Instagram HERE and find more information on her website HEREGot a question or comment? Send us a text message here!Click HERE to support us.Thank you for listening.You can continue the conversation with us in the Far 2 Fabulous Facebook group. Come and connect with other women on a journey to empowered health.  For more information about Julie Clark Nutrition, click HERE For more information about Catherine Chapman, click HERE If you enjoy the podcast and would like to support the show, you can buy us a coffee HERE. Your support helps us continue creating episodes and improving our recording setup. We look forward to you joining us on the next episode.