Bladder dysfunction is not just a mechanical issue—it’s deeply connected to the nervous system. By understanding the role of Polyvagal Theory, Onuf’s nucleus, and bladder retraining, we can take a multifaceted approach to restoring urinary function.

💡 Key Takeaways: ✔ The autonomic nervous system plays a crucial role in bladder control.
✔ Stress and trauma can disrupt the bladder’s normal function.
✔ Bladder retraining and nervous system regulation improve continence.
✔ Hypopressives are a powerful tool to regulate intra-abdominal pressure and support bladder health.
✔ Balanced pelvic floor muscle tone is key—neither too tight nor too weak—for optimal continence.

For those struggling with bladder dysfunction or incontinence, a combined approach of bladder training, breathwork, pelvic floor support, and nervous system regulation offers real solutions for long-term relief.

✨ Let’s start normalising conversations around bladder health and give our nervous systems the care they need! ✨

Onuf’s nucleus. You may not have heard of it, but it’s working hard for you every day—helping you control your bladder and bowels, keeping your pelvic floor muscles engaged, and even playing a role in orgasmic contractions(yes it also helps with amazing orgasims)

Scar tissue is a natural part of the body’s healing process after a hysterectomy, pelvic floor surgery, or any abdominal intervention. However, while it serves as the body's internal "patchwork," it doesn’t always integrate seamlessly into the surrounding tissues. Instead, scar tissue can form adhesions—dense, fibrous bands that create restrictions and pull through the biotensegrity of the entire body.

This post will explore how these adhesions impact movement, hydration, and nerve glide within the fascia and muscle chains—and how postural awareness and Hypopressives can be powerful tools in restoring balance and function.

• Dorsal Vagal (Freeze/Fawn):

  • Unlike fight-or-flight, where the pelvic floor tightens in response to stress, freeze mode causes a sense of disconnection from the body.

  • Women often cannot fight or flee from their own pelvic floors, so they may instead freeze, resulting in a lack of sensation, dissociation, or numbness in the pelvic area.

  • The fascia becomes rigid and dry, reducing mobility and increasing pain perception.

  • Bladder function may be affected by delayed or absent signals, leading to retention or leaks due to an unresponsive pelvic floor.

  • Movement feels slow, heavy, or disconnected, and engaging with the pelvic area may feel overwhelming.

To truly restore function to the abdominal wall and core, progressively loading the connective tissue is essential. As Anthony Lo, a leading physiotherapist and expert in strength-based core rehabilitation, states: “Connective tissue needs load to adapt and strengthen. If we avoid loading it, we miss out on its capacity to heal and become more resilient.”

This means that while gentle foundational exercises like breathwork and deep core activation are crucial, progressive resistance and functional movement must also be introduced in a gradual, controlled manner. Increasing load over time through safe and intentional movement encourages the linea alba to regain tension, allowing for improved force transfer, stability, and overall function of the core.

Many traditional abdominal exercises, like crunches and sit-ups, can exacerbate the issue by increasing pressure inside the abdomen, making the gap worse over time. Instead, a functional and pressure-aware approach is needed for true healing.

Let’s talk about queefing. Yes, vaginal flatulence—the release of trapped air that can sometimes make an awkward appearance during sex, exercise, or yoga. It’s entirely natural, harmless, but not exactly a confidence booster. Why does it happen, and more importantly, is there something we can do to prevent it? Absolutely. With a deeper understanding of posture, alignment, and breathwork, you can reduce the frequency of queefing and improve overall pelvic health. Let’s dive in.

Have you ever used the bathroom "just in case" before leaving the house, even if you didn’t really feel the urge to go? Or maybe you’ve squeezed harder when peeing, worrying about leaking or needing to return to the toilet shortly after? These habits might seem harmless, but they can disrupt your bladder’s natural function and contribute to pelvic floor dysfunction over time. Let’s dive into the anatomy behind these common behaviors and how simple techniques like lateral costal breathing, jaw relaxation, and foot positioning can support your bladder’s health.