Urogynecologic behavioral therapy

At Penn Medicine, our urogynecology team has expertise in surgical and non-surgical treatment to improve your pelvic health and function. Depending on your condition and symptoms, your provider may recommend behavioral therapy.

Behavioral therapy is a non-surgical treatment that can improve symptoms of pelvic floor disorders, including pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, bowel incontinence, and overactive bladder (OAB). Behavioral therapy techniques can help improve your well-being and quality of life.

Benefits of urogynecologic behavioral techniques on your health and well-being

Conditions like incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse can greatly impact your quality of life. With behavioral therapy, our specialists have helped many people return to health and enjoy daily activities. These therapies can help you:

• Improve your mental health and self-esteem: Many people with bladder and bowel incontinence and other pelvic floor disorders experience anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Overcoming incontinence using behavioral training techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy can help you regain a sense of control over your body, boosting your mood and self-confidence.
• Prepare for childbirth: Pelvic muscle strength helps prevent incontinence during pregnancy. It can also improve your body’s ability to support a growing baby and aid in pushing during delivery.
• Shorten recovery after childbirth: Behavioral treatments can improve or prevent urogynecologic issues people experience after giving birth. They can also help you recover from childbirth faster.
• Restore sexual function: Exercises that strengthen your pelvic floor muscles can increase blood flow to your pelvic floor and vagina and improve arousal. Stronger pelvic muscles can also enhance sensation during sexual activity.