Supporting Women’s Health Starts with the Pelvic Floor

May 13, 2025

When it comes to women’s health, pelvic floor care is often overlooked—but it plays a critical role in everything from bladder control and bowel function to sexual health and core stability. At Jefferson County Health Center, we’re shining a light on this important area during Women’s Health Week and offering expert support right here at home.

What Is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that supports the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles stretch like a hammock from the tailbone to the pubic bone. When functioning properly, they help maintain control and stability. But when weakened, stretched, or injured—often due to childbirth, surgery, aging, or trauma—they can cause a range of symptoms including:

• Urinary or fecal incontinence
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Pain during intercourse
• Constipation
• A feeling of heaviness or “falling out” in the pelvis

These symptoms can impact quality of life—but they are not something women just have to live with.

Meet Our Pelvic Floor Specialist
JCHC is proud to offer pelvic floor therapy through our Therapy Department with Brandi Hemsley, DPT, who specializes in treating pelvic floor dysfunction. Brandi provides personalized, one-on-one sessions focused on education, strengthening, relaxation techniques, and behavior modifications tailored to each patient’s needs and goals.

“Many women are surprised to learn that the symptoms they’re experiencing are treatable through physical therapy,” said Hemsley. “My goal is to provide a safe, supportive space where we can work together to improve function and quality of life.”

What to Expect from Therapy
Pelvic floor therapy is non-invasive and begins with an evaluation that may include a discussion of symptoms, a musculoskeletal assessment, and education about how the pelvic floor muscles function. From there, treatment may involve gentle exercises, relaxation techniques, and strategies to improve bladder or bowel habits.

Each plan of care is customized, and patient comfort is always a priority.

Take the First Step
If you're experiencing symptoms or want to learn more about your pelvic floor health, we’re here to help. You don’t have to be referred by a specialist—your journey can start simply by calling our Therapy Department.

📞 Call 641-469-4353 to schedule an appointment with Brandi Hemsley, DPT.

This Women’s Health Week, let’s make pelvic health part of the conversation. Because every woman deserves care that supports her from the inside out.