Episode Overview Join Kristen Parise for a compelling conversation with Dr. Sara Reardon, pelvic floor physical therapist and author of the groundbreaking book "Floored." Dr. Reardon challenges the dangerous myths surrounding pelvic health, from the misconception that Kegels are a universal solution to the harmful narrative that pelvic floor dysfunction is just part of aging and motherhood. This episode is a rallying cry for women's health advocacy and a comprehensive guide to understanding your pelvic floor at every life stage. What You'll Learn Why balance, not strengthening or relaxing, is the key to pelvic floor healthHow to identify whether you have a hypertonic (high tension) versus hypotonic (low tension) pelvic floorThe surprising connection between stress, emotions, and pelvic floor dysfunctionWhy 90% of female orgasms occur through clitoral stimulation and what this means for sexual healthThe critical importance of pelvic health education during the teenage yearsHow childhood experiences and trauma can manifest as adult pelvic floor issuesThe integrated approach needed to treat pelvic floor dysfunction effectively Episode Highlights From Misconceptions to Empowerment Dr. Reardon reveals the three biggest misconceptions she encounters: women not knowing they have a pelvic floor, believing dysfunction is "normal," and assuming Kegels are always the answer. She emphasizes that many women actually have pelvic floor tension rather than weakness, requiring completely different treatment approaches. The Emotional Barometer Exploring the profound mind-body connection, Dr. Reardon shares how the pelvic floor serves as an "emotional barometer." She recounts powerful patient stories and her own experience during Hurricane Ida, demonstrating how stress and trauma directly impact pelvic floor function. Sexual Health Revolution Breaking down barriers around sexual education, Dr. Reardon explains the anatomy of arousal, orgasm, and why painful sex is never normal. She advocates for comprehensive sexual health education that goes far beyond "sperm meets egg" to include pleasure, function, and the pelvic floor's central role. The Teenage Years: A Critical Window Dr. Reardon makes a compelling case for pelvic health education starting in adolescence, addressing everything from painful periods (which are NOT normal) to the 40% of high school female athletes who experience urinary incontinence. She emphasizes how early education can prevent decades of silent suffering. Beyond the Pelvic Floor: An Integrated Approach Using her "layers of an onion" metaphor, Dr. Reardon explains how effective treatment must address posture, breathing, abdominal function, and emotional health alongside pelvic floor muscles. She challenges the medical system's tendency to isolate symptoms rather than treating the whole person. The Healthcare Revolution Needed Dr. Reardon calls for systematic changes in medical education and practice, advocating for screening tools, better provider training, and the integration of pelvic health into standard women's healthcare rather than treating it as a last resort. Episode Chapters 00:00-03:12: Introduction and Book Launch Celebration – Dr. Reardon returns to discuss her new book "Floored" 03:12-05:59: Breaking Down the Biggest Misconceptions – Why most women don't know they have a pelvic floor 05:59-08:57: The Balance Principle – Understanding hypertonic vs. hypotonic pelvic floors and why Kegels aren't universal 08:57-12:07: The Power of Advocacy – Why your voice is your most powerful tool in healthcare 12:07-14:54: Sexual Health Deep Dive – The pelvic floor's role in arousal, lubrication, and orgasm 14:54-17:57: The Emotional Connection – How the pelvic floor serves as an emotional barometer 17:57-20:49: Stress and Trauma Impact – Personal stories and Hurricane Ida's effect on pelvic floor tension 20:49-23:11: Integrated Treatment Approaches – Why comprehensive care includes mental health support 23:11-24:09: The Comprehensive Philosophy – Moving beyond isolated pelvic floor treatment 24:09-26:25: Teenage Years as the Critical Window – Why pelvic health education should start early 26:25-29:09: Breaking the Shame Cycle – Creating open conversations about bodies and function 29:09-31:42: The "Layers of an Onion" Approach – Understanding the pelvic floor as part of an integrated system 31:42-35:42: Resources for Healthcare Providers – Screening tools and outcome measures 35:42-40:50: The Mesh Crisis That Changed Everything – Dr. Reardon's pivotal experience with surgical complications 40:50-End: Advocacy and Action – The mission to make pelvic health standard care Key Takeaways Pelvic floor dysfunction affects women at all life stages, not just after childbirth or during agingBalance between strength and relaxation is more important than just doing KegelsPainful periods, painful sex, and urinary incontinence are never normal and always treatableStress ...
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Jun 30 202535 m