If you’ve ever been told that leaking when you laugh, cough, or exercise is “just part of getting older,” or that you’ll “just have to live with it,” this article is a must-read. At Embrace Wellness Haven, we’ve helped countless women take back control with one of the most advanced pelvic floor treatments available – the Emsella chair.
Emsella, Surgery, Physio - where do I start?
Physio, Emsella, or Surgery – Understanding Your Options for Pelvic Floor Recovery
If you’ve been referred to a pelvic floor physiotherapist or told surgery may be your only option, you’re not alone. Many women experiencing stress incontinence, urgency, or incomplete bladder emptying start by strengthening their pelvic floor with exercises under the professional guidance of a physiotherapist. Physiotherapy is a valuable, evidence-based first step, but it isn’t the only one.
Today, new technology like Emsella provides a non-invasive alternative that can help restore strength and control without the need for surgery or internal exercises.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy – the foundation
Pelvic floor physiotherapists play an important role in helping clients understand, locate, and strengthen the muscles that control continence. With consistency and the right technique, this approach can deliver significant improvement in bladder control and confidence.
For some women, however, progress can be slower when the muscles are very weak or difficult to activate. This isn’t a reflection on the physiotherapy itself, but rather on the body’s starting point. Some women are told by their physiotherapist that during internal assessment, they have little or no ability to contract their pelvic floor at all, which can make exercises challenging to perform effectively.
Emsella – the modern alternative
Sessions are fully clothed, completely non-invasive, and pain-free, with no downtime. Most clients begin noticing results after two to three sessions, with full outcomes developing over about 12 weeks.
Emsella can be ideal when:
• You’ve completed pelvic floor exercises with limited results
• Your muscles are too weak to activate manually
• You’re seeking a faster or more comfortable alternative
• You prefer a non-invasive, clinically proven option
• You’d like to complement physiotherapy for a stronger outcome
Emsella doesn’t replace physiotherapy or pelvic floor exercises such as Pilates. Instead, it enhances them. Physiotherapy helps with control and coordination, while Emsella builds the strength and endurance those muscles need to function properly.
Surgical options – when other methods haven’t worked
For some women, particularly those with severe or long-standing incontinence, surgery may be recommended. Procedures such as a urethral sling or bladder neck suspension aim to provide physical support to the bladder and urethra to prevent leakage.
Surgery can be effective, but it also comes with considerations such as recovery time, possible complications, and the need for anaesthesia. It is usually recommended only after conservative treatments like physiotherapy have been explored and results assessed. It is strongly encouraged that you explore the Emsella option before considering surgery, as it can often produce meaningful results without invasive procedures.
Understanding all three approaches – physiotherapy, Emsella, and surgery – allows you to make an informed decision that aligns with your comfort level, medical history, and lifestyle.
Real results at Embrace Wellness Haven
At Embrace Wellness Haven, we’ve seen life-changing outcomes with Emsella. Women who once relied on pads or woke frequently during the night are regaining full control, confidence, and freedom in their daily lives.
One client had completed extensive pelvic floor physiotherapy and had been advised that surgery was her last option. After six Emsella sessions, she reported continence for the first time in a decade and was able to resume her morning walks without worry.
Finding your best path
Your journey to pelvic floor recovery is deeply personal. Some women find success through physiotherapy alone, others combine it with Emsella, and a few may ultimately require surgical support. What matters most is choosing the path that helps you regain strength, control, and confidence in your body.
If you’d like to explore whether Emsella could support your progress or offer an alternative to surgery, we offer complimentary consultations to discuss your goals and create a tailored plan for your needs.
Embrace Wellness Haven – Perth’s centre for pelvic floor strength, incontinence recovery, and women’s wellness.
