By Jessica Fishburn, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist
As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I often see women who have been putting everyone else’s needs before their own—partners, children, parents, work, pets, you name it. But here’s the truth: your health matters just as much as theirs. In fact, when you’re healthy, you’re better able to show up for the people and things you care about most.
This Women’s Health Week, hosted by Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, the theme is “Say Yes to You” – a reminder to make space for your own wellbeing. Here are five practical ways you can start prioritising your health today.
1. Book Your Health Checks – No More “I’ll Get Around to It”
When was your last cervical screening, breast check, or general health review? These appointments often slip to the bottom of the list, but early detection can make all the difference.
- Schedule your GP check-up, blood pressure monitoring, and any screening tests you’re due for.
- If you’ve noticed changes in bladder, bowel, or pelvic floor function, book a pelvic health physiotherapy assessment. Think of these as investments in your future self – not optional extras.
2. Move in a Way That Feels Good for You
Exercise doesn’t have to mean a hardcore gym session (unless that’s your thing!). From walking with a friend to yoga, swimming, or Pilates, movement supports your cardiovascular health, bone density, and mental wellbeing.
As a pelvic health physiotherapist, I also help women adapt exercise to suit pregnancy, postnatal recovery, menopause, or pelvic floor concerns – so you can feel confident and safe while moving.
3. Prioritise Rest Without Feeling Guilty
Rest is not a luxury, it’s essential for hormone balance, stress management, and tissue repair.
- Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep most nights.
- Schedule short breaks during the day to reset.
- Listen to your body when it needs downtime, rather than pushing through exhaustion.
Saying yes to rest is saying yes to better health.
4. Support Your Pelvic Health at Every Life Stage
Your pelvic floor muscles play a vital role in continence, core strength, and sexual function, yet many women don’t think about them until something goes wrong.
You can support your pelvic health by:
- Learning how to correctly contract and relax your pelvic floor.
- Avoiding “just in case” toilet visits.
- Managing constipation with diet, hydration, and movement.
If you’re experiencing symptoms like leakage, heaviness, or pain, a pelvic health physiotherapist can help, no matter your age or life stage.
5. Nourish Your Body with What It Needs
Eating well isn’t about strict diets – it’s about giving your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.
- Choose a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Stay hydrated, especially if you’re increasing your fibre intake to support bowel health.
- Listen to your hunger and fullness cues, and enjoy your meals without guilt.
The Bottom Line
This Women’s Health Week, I encourage you to say yes to you — book that appointment, move your body, rest without guilt, care for your pelvic health, and nourish yourself well.
Taking care of your health isn’t selfish. It’s the best investment you can make for yourself, your family, and your future.
Need support with your pelvic health? At Gen Health, Jess our pelvic health physiotherapist can help with bladder, bowel, pregnancy, postnatal, and perimenopause / menopause-related concerns.
Please note, alongside her current patients, Jess is only seeing new patients who are pregnant or within 12 months postpartum as our Pelvic Health and Persistent Pain Physiotherapy service is nearing capacity.
If you would like to be added to a waitlist to be notified when our capacity changes, please contact us on 03 5571 9923, or admin@genhealthhamilton.com.au
Disclaimer: All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice.
