Pelvic Floor Dysfunction & Hypermobility with Dr. Amy Stein

  Host Dr. Libby Hinsley interviews pelvic floor physical therapist and author Dr. Amy Stein, founder of Beyond Basics Physical Therapy. Stein discusses the strong overlap she sees between hypermobility and pelvic floor dysfunction (estimating about 70% of her patients), including patterns of pelvic floor gripping used for stability, pelvic pain, prolapse, hernias, constipation/IBS symptoms, possible pelvic congestion, and bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction across all genders.   She emphasizes a multimodal approach: calming tissues, building stability gradually with isometrics and deep core work, modifying exercise, and prioritizing nervous system regulation and mindfulness. Stein also addresses perimenopause/menopause and their effects on symptoms, tissue elasticity, muscle health, and the role of hormone therapy and topical creams. She describes her Wellness By Nature CBD products and advises seeking experienced pelvic floor PTs with thorough assessment.   Highlights of this episode include:   00:00 Welcome to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Amy Stein 01:45 Hypermobility overlap 03:59 Amy’s bendy story 05:57 Common pelvic patterns 07:26 Multimodal treatment 09:47 Pelvic floor basics 12:07 Stability and exercise 15:35 Bowel and congestion 18:18 Perimenopause and hormones 22:48 Tissue changes and creams 24:18 CBD products explained 27:37 Lifestyle and whole body 31:27 Finding the right pelvic PT 33:40 Wrap up and resources