Osteopathy in pelvi-perineology treats dysfunctions of the pelvis, perineum and uro-procto-genital sphere (perineal, genital, pelvic pain, sexual pain, incontinence), in women and men.

What are the main areas of intervention for this specialty?

The indications are as follows:

• chronic pain of the pelvis, hip and perineum (including pudendalgia)
• irregularities in the menstrual cycle, premenstrual syndrome or pain during periods
• coccygodynia and pubalgia
• bladder or perineal disorders (urinary or fecal incontinence, urinary urgency, difficulty urinating or defecating)
• inflammatory disorders and/or repeated infections (cystitis, mycoses, chronic prostatitis)
• certain pain in the prostate or testicles
• anal or rectal pain (hemorrhoids, fissures)
• reproductive disorders without organic etiology (subfertility)
• pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia, anodyspareunia)
• pain linked to endometriosis (myofascial syndrome)

What is the therapeutic approach used?

After an interrogation targeting the bladder, gynecological and proctological sphere, the osteopath will target his clinical examination on the posture, the diaphragm, the visceral sphere and the small pelvis. The techniques, in addition to the techniques commonly used in general osteopathy, include an endocavitary approach, carried out with the informed consent of the patient.
The treatment consists of mobilization, vaginally and/or rectally, of the muscular structures of the perineum, the attachment system of the uterus, the bladder, the prostate and the coccyx with the aim of restoring the functions of the pelvis and small pelvis, namely defecation, urination, reproduction and sexuality.

What are the goals of treatment?

Treatments aim to have an effect on:

• local vascularization and the neurovegetative system
• pain
• myofascial syndrome

How is osteopathy different from physiotherapy?

Osteopathy adopts a global approach, focusing on restoring mobility of the pelvis, viscera, muscles and fascia, through passive manual techniques, allowing tension and pain to be released. Physiotherapy focuses on active muscular reconditioning of the perineum (muscular hypertonia or hypotonia) through active exercises and local techniques (biofeedback, electrostimulation). The two approaches are complementary for optimal recovery: the osteopath releases structural constraints while the physiotherapist re-educates the muscle for optimal functioning.

Can I come accompanied by a loved one during the sessions?

Yes, of course, our goal is for you to feel safe and calm.

If I make an appointment for a pelvi-perineology session, does this mean that there will be a vaginal or rectal examination anyway?

No, the objective of a first session is firstly to be able to inform the patient, so that the therapist can assess whether osteopathic treatment is indicated, and discuss the desired approach (external techniques or endocavitary techniques) and other possible therapeutic treatments.