Optimal Pelvic Health: Beyond Kegels and Gadgets with Sheela Zelmer

My Third Bloom

Welcome to the next episode for the My Third Bloom podcast! Our host, Tricia Blake sits down for an insightful discussion on pelvic health with Sheela Zelmer.

Sheela Zelmer is a highly experienced pelvic health physiotherapist, intimacy coach, and educator based in Newmarket, Ontario. With 28 years of practice in orthopedic and pelvic health, she has become a leading expert in the field. Sheela graduated from the University of Toronto Physical Therapy program and holds certification in sex therapy from the University of Guelph. She works in private practice, providing both in-person and virtual treatments, and also serves as a teaching faculty with Pelvic Health Solutions, where she educates future pelvic health clinicians. Sheela's passion lies in peri to postmenopausal health and women's sexual wellness, and she is dedicated to helping women embrace and appreciate their bodies for a fulfilling life. She actively advocates for breaking cultural stigmas surrounding pelvic health and strives to create inclusive and culturally sensitive pelvic health spaces. Through her Instagram presence and website, she shares valuable resources, videos, free guides, and information about workshops and events related to pelvic health.

00:02:04 - Pelvic Health

Pelvic health is crucial for women's well-being, and Sheela Zelmer is an expert in this field. With over 28 years of experience in orthopedic and pelvic health, she understands the unique challenges women face during perimenopause and menopause. Sheela's passion for pelvic health comes from her own journey of embracing her body, growing up in a culture where discussing such matters was taboo. Recognizing the lack of education and support for women in this area, she made it her mission to provide women with the knowledge and resources they need. As a pelvic health physiotherapist, she offers screenings and personalized guidance to help women stay ahead of potential issues. Through her website and social media platforms, Sheela provides a wealth of information, videos, and workshops to empower women and foster a supportive community.

00:06:07 - Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when organs in the pelvic area, such as the bladder, uterus, or rectum, descend due to a lack of support from the pelvic floor muscles and connective tissue. This can cause discomfort and symptoms like a feeling of something sitting oddly in the vagina or a visible bulge. The pelvic floor muscles have five important functions: bladder and bowel control, organ support, sexual function, circulation, and core stabilization. Up to 40% of women may experience pelvic organ prolapse, with symptoms ranging from bladder leakage to discomfort during intimacy. Many women feel embarrassed or ashamed to discuss their pelvic floor problems, leading to underreporting and a lack of treatment-seeking. However, by raising awareness, providing education, and encouraging open conversations, we can empower women to prioritize their pelvic health and seek appropriate care.

00:09:02 - Proper Exercise

Proper exercise is crucial for women's pelvic health, especially during hormonal transitions like pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause. Sheela, a pelvic health physiotherapist, emphasizes the importance of being aware and educated about our bodies to make informed decisions. Contrary to popular belief, kegel exercises and using gadgets like Yoni balls or jade eggs are not necessary for everyone. In fact, if women experience frequent urination, nocturia, or urgency, it may indicate muscle tension rather than weakness, and squeezing more can exacerbate the issue. To determine the right exercises for pelvic health, it is recommended to consult with a professional who can evaluate the muscles directly. By seeking professional guidance and staying proactive, women can prevent problems and maintain optimal pelvic health.

00:15:07 - Seeking Treatment for Pelvic Floor Problems

Seeking treatment for pelvic floor problems can be challenging due to the shame and taboo surrounding the topic. Many women feel embarrassed to speak about their pelvic floor issues, resulting in a low percentage of women seeking treatment. Sheela, a pelvic health physiotherapist, emphasizes the importance of empowering and educating women about their pelvic health through platforms like podcasts and social media. The pelvic floor, a group of muscles located at the bottom of the pelvis, plays a significant role in bladder and bowel control, organ support, sexual function, circulation, and stability. Dysfunction in any of these areas can lead to problems such as bladder leakage, pelvic organ prolapse, and discomfort during intimacy. It is crucial for women to undergo pelvic health screenings, especially during hormonal transitions, and to consult with a pelvic health physiotherapist for evaluation and treatment.

00:21:38 - Pleasure Outside of the Bedroom

According to Sheela, finding joy and pleasure in activities outside of the bedroom is crucial for experiencing pleasure in the bedroom. During the perimenopause transition, many women have neglected to prioritize activities that bring them pure joy. She emphasizes the importance of indulging in self-indulgent activities, such as enjoying guilt-free food or pampering oneself with essential oils and a relaxing bath. By tapping back into pleasure and play outside of the bedroom, women can cultivate confidence and security, making it easier to have conversations about their changing bodies and sexual desires. She suggests that just as we communicate our excitement about activities like running or going to the gym, we should also feel empowered to communicate our needs and desires in the realm of sex and intimacy. Ultimately, finding pleasure outside of the bedroom is a key component of overall sexual wellness and should be normalized and prioritized.

00:30:29 - Connecting with Sheela Zelmer

Looking to connect with a pelvic health expert? Look no further than Sheela Zelmer, a pelvic health physiotherapist, intimacy coach, and educator based in Newmarket, Ontario. With over 28 years of experience in orthopedic and pelvic health, Sheela specializes in peri to postmenopausal health and women's sexual wellness. Her mission is to help women know and love their bodies so they can enjoy life to the fullest. You can find Sheela on Instagram (@SheelaZelmer) and her website (sheelazelmer.com), where she provides a wealth of resources, including videos, free guides, and information about upcoming workshops and events. Whether you're seeking support, education, or a thriving community, connecting with Sheela is the first step towards embracing the beauty of your pelvic health journey.

Find Sheela Zelmer Online:

Website: Sheela Zelmer – WOMENS HEALTH

IG: https://www.instagram.com/sheelazelmer

Find us online:

Website: https://mythirdbloom.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/MyThirdBloom/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/my-third-bloom/