Bowel Support
Bowel symptoms are not just inconvenient — they can affect energy levels, confidence, relationships, and participation in everyday life. For some women, concerns such as constipation, difficulty emptying, urgency, or loss of bowel control develop gradually over time; for others, they may follow pregnancy, childbirth, surgery, or changes to pelvic floor function.
We offer thoughtful, evidence-based support for bowel concerns including constipation, faecal and flatal incontinence, evacuation difficulties, pelvic floor rehabilitation following perineal trauma or OASIS, and support for women managing IBS and other bowel conditions. Care focuses on understanding what is happening in your body, addressing contributing factors, and supporting practical strategies that help you feel more comfortable and confident day to day.
Conditions We Support
We support women experiencing a range of bowel concerns, including constipation, difficulty emptying, urgency, and loss of bowel control, as well as pelvic floor dysfunction following childbirth, perineal injury or OASIS, post-surgical changes, and symptoms associated with IBS and other functional bowel conditions.
These concerns can arise for many reasons, including changes in pelvic floor strength or coordination, nerve sensitivity, connective tissue support, hormonal influences, or recovery after pregnancy, birth, or surgery.
What Is 'Normal' Bowel Function?
There is a wide range of normal when it comes to bowel habits. In general:
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Bowel motions may occur anywhere from three times per day to three times per week
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Stools should be soft, formed, and easy to pass (often Bristol Stool Chart type 3–4)
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Emptying should feel complete and occur within about a minute of sitting on the toilet
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Minimal straining or wiping should be needed
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You should be able to delay the urge to open your bowels for a short period
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Bowel motions should not be associated with ongoing pain, bleeding (outside known causes), or loss of control
What Does Assessment Involve?
Assessment begins with a detailed conversation about your symptoms, bowel habits, obstetric and medical history, lifestyle factors, and goals. This often provides valuable insight into what may be contributing to your symptoms.
Depending on your presentation, assessment may also include:
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A bowel diary, to identify patterns of frequency, stool consistency, urgency, and contributing triggers
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Discussion of diet, fluid intake, and toileting habits
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Musculoskeletal assessment, including posture, abdominal wall function, breathing patterns, and pelvic movement patterns
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A visual or internal vaginal examination (with consent), to assess muscle strength, coordination, relaxation, and timing
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It is sometimes indicated (with consent) to perform a visual or internal rectal examination to assess muscle tone, strength, coordination, relaxation and timing
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Where indicated, a neurological examination to assess normal reflexes, sensation and motor patterns
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Where relevant, liaison with your GP or specialist if symptoms suggest medical review is appropriate
Not everyone requires all components of assessment — this is guided by your symptoms and your comfort.
Get in Touch
We are here to support you. Reach out for inquiries or to schedule an appointment.
Suite 25, Level 1, 22/36 Scott St,
Toowoomba City QLD 4350
