Beyond the Symptoms | Expert Interview Series by LUF
Beyond the Symptoms is an interview series by LUF that explores the science, solutions, and stories behind pelvic health. Each episode features in-depth conversations with leading medical experts, researchers, and healthcare innovators who share their insights beyond conventional diagnoses and treatments. Whether you're a patient, practitioner, or curious mind, this podcast is your guide to understanding the complexities of pelvic health and fostering meaningful change.
Beyond the Symptoms | Expert Interview Series by LUF
How Your Pelvic Floor Affects UTIs – with Alina Filipe
How does your pelvic floor impact your urinary health? In this episode of the LUF Podcast, host Melissa Kramer sits down with Alina Filipe, a pelvic floor physiotherapist from Sydney, Australia, to explore the crucial connection between pelvic floor function and chronic UTIs. If you've ever wondered why UTIs keep coming back or why symptoms linger even after treatment, this conversation offers practical insights that can help. Tune in for a discussion that breaks down complex topics into actionable advice—because understanding your body is the first step toward better health.
What you'll learn:
🔹 The link between your pelvic floor and UTIs – Did you know that incomplete relaxation of your pelvic floor while urinating can increase your risk of infection? As Alina explains, "If you're not completely relaxing your pelvic floor when you're doing a wee...it's easier to leave a little bit behind. If you are leaving a little bit behind, you will increase your chances of having a UTI.”
🔹 Why Kegels aren't always the answer – Pelvic health goes beyond strengthening exercises. Treatment may involve assessing hydration, bowel habits, sexual health, and even hygiene practices that could be making things worse. As Alina puts it, “Pelvic floor physiotherapy is not only trigger points... there's actually a lot more that we do.”
🔹 Finding relief beyond antibiotics – If your UTI symptoms persist despite treatment, your pelvic floor might be contributing to ongoing discomfort. “The pelvic floor can become sensitized” after infections, leading to nerve irritation and muscle tension that mimic UTI symptoms. Discover gentle, non-invasive techniques that can help break the cycle.
Want to learn more about urinary health? Visit LiveUTIFree.com for expert articles on the latest research, or check out our YouTube channel if you prefer video format.