Addressing Pelvic Health Dysfunction: Awareness and Practical Education

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Awareness and Practical Education


Whilst in 2003 RCOG Calls for Action to Empower Women, Mbodies does its bit to educate Pilates Instructors and Physios to work effectively to provide targeted exercise for these conditions.

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) has sounded an urgent call for action to combat the widespread issue of pelvic floor dysfunction in the UK, affecting millions of women. Disturbing new data shows that over 60% of UK women experience symptoms of poor pelvic floor health, yet many are unaware of the importance of pelvic floor exercises and lack access to crucial information.

A survey involving 2,000 women highlighted a concerning lack of awareness and education. Shockingly, a significant portion of women (55%) have either never attempted or currently do not engage in pelvic floor exercises, which can alleviate and prevent symptoms.  Additionally, 15% of respondents couldn't recognise common symptoms linked to a weakened pelvic floor.

The RCOG's policy statement emphasises the need for comprehensive education and accessible information about pelvic floor health at various stages of a woman's life.  Efforts should start from a young age, with tailored guidance provided during pregnancy and menopause.  The statement underscores the significance of lifestyle modifications, including maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and cessation of smoking, in addition to practicing pelvic floor exercises, to minimise the risk and impact of pelvic floor dysfunction.

The survey also revealed that a majority of women (69%) had not sought advice from healthcare professionals regarding their pelvic floor health.  Alarmingly, over half (53%) of those who experienced symptoms did not consult healthcare providers due to misconceptions about normalcy (39%) or embarrassment (21%).

RCOG President, Dr. Ranee Thakar, highlighted the role of all healthcare professionals in destigmatising pelvic floor health discussions and empowering women to safeguard their well-being. Routine healthcare appointments, particularly during pregnancy and postnatal care, offer opportunities to educate women about maintaining a healthy pelvic floor.

Moreover, the RCOG emphasises timely support for women displaying symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, including access to specialised healthcare professionals like continence nurses, women's health physiotherapists, and urogynaecologists.  Studies indicate that conditions like pelvic organ prolapse, and incontinence can significantly impact a woman's quality of life, affecting family, relationships, and overall well-being.

The RCOG's initiative aims to bridge gaps in awareness, knowledge, and access to care, ensuring that women across the UK can actively manage and improve their pelvic floor health.  By advocating for holistic education, open conversations, and specialised support, the RCOG aims to empower women to take charge of their pelvic health and enhance their overall quality of life.



In our ongoing commitment to champion women's pelvic health, Mbodies is excited to introduce a groundbreaking collaboration that seamlessly aligns with the imperative highlighted by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) which underscored the importance of education, suitable exercise, and empowerment in pelvic floor health, a cause Mbodies passionately champions.

To provide education, Mbodies Training Academy commissioned Alexandra Chapman - a Women’s Health Specialist Physiotherapist and certified comprehensively trained Pilates Instructor.   With Alex, Mbodies offer a specialised avenue for Pilates instructors and physiotherapists to deepen their understanding of Female Pelvic Health, to a level where they understand how to Programme Pilates effectively for a range of Female Pelvic Health conditions.

Mbodies Training Academy presents a suite of four stand-alone, learn-in-your-own-time, advanced standard online CPD courses designed to illuminate the intricate realm of women's pelvic health:

M1 The Pelvic Floor & Core: Foundations in Anatomy & Function

M2 Dysfunctions in Pelvic Health: Can Pilates Help?

M3 Diastasis Rectus Abdominis: Core Restoration Using Pilates

M4 Functional Progression of Pilates Programming for Pelvic Health Conditions

These courses serve as a dynamic bridge between theory and practice, equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools to address various pelvic health concerns.  The academy's curriculum dives deep into topics such as pelvic floor anatomy, dysfunction management, diastasis rectus abdominis restoration, and tailored Pilates programming., Alexandra Chapman's expertise, as both a Women’s Health Specialist Physiotherapist and a certified Pilates Instructor, ensures that participants receive the highest level of appropriate theoretical guidance and exercise recommendations, with programming guidance that seamlessly grows as the modules progress.   The modules are stand-alone in their own right, but for those looking to specialise in this area of exercise, the concept is to study the four modules in order.

By combining the insights of the RCOG's advocacy for awareness with the practical expertise of Mbodies Training Academy, we forge a holistic pathway toward pelvic health.  Our approach strives to empower instructors and physiotherapists with the know-how to initiate crucial conversations with clients, offer tailored solutions, and transform the lives of women seeking enhanced pelvic well-being.

Together, let us create a future where women's pelvic health is nurtured, fortified, and celebrated—an embodiment of the harmonious synergy between knowledge and compassionate care.


For more information on Mbodies Female Pelvic Health Courses click HERE


For more information on becoming an Mbodies Exercise and Female Pelvic Health Specialist click HERE

Author:  Chris Onslow - Pilates Consultant

Chris Onslow, has run Pilates focussed businesses since 1998.  He and his team specialise in supporting Pilates entrepreneurs and business owners.  With a rich history of owning and running successful Pilates studios in the UK, and supporting others in Europe and the Middle East, Chris has broad expertise in maximising profitability and optimising operational efficiency.  His agency provides top-tier advice on selecting new, pre-owned, and hireable Pilates equipment from renowned brands such as Align-Pilates, Balanced Body or Stott-Pilates/Merrithew.  As the founder of Mbodies Training Academy, Chris continues to revolutionise Pilates education, offering premier online and hybrid CPD and qualification courses for Pilates apparatus instruction and special population CPD.  Discover more about how Chris can support your Pilates Business or home exercise choices at www.pilates-consultant.co.uk 



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