39: Floored by the Truth: Demystifying Pelvic Health from Teens to Menopause with Dr. Sara Reardon

Episode Overview

Join Kristen Parise for a compelling conversation with Dr. Sara Reardon, pelvic floor physical therapist and author of the groundbreaking book "Floored." Dr. Reardon challenges the dangerous myths surrounding pelvic health, from the misconception that Kegels are a universal solution to the harmful narrative that pelvic floor dysfunction is just part of aging and motherhood. This episode is a rallying cry for women's health advocacy and a comprehensive guide to understanding your pelvic floor at every life stage.

What You'll Learn

• Why balance, not strengthening or relaxing, is the key to pelvic floor health
• How to identify whether you have a hypertonic (high tension) versus hypotonic (low tension) pelvic floor
• The surprising connection between stress, emotions, and pelvic floor dysfunction
• Why 90% of female orgasms occur through clitoral stimulation and what this means for sexual health
• The critical importance of pelvic health education during the teenage years
• How childhood experiences and trauma can manifest as adult pelvic floor issues
• The integrated approach needed to treat pelvic floor dysfunction effectively

Episode Highlights

From Misconceptions to Empowerment

Dr. Reardon reveals the three biggest misconceptions she encounters: women not knowing they have a pelvic floor, believing dysfunction is "normal," and assuming Kegels are always the answer. She emphasizes that many women actually have pelvic floor tension rather than weakness, requiring completely different treatment approaches.

The Emotional Barometer

Exploring the profound mind-body connection, Dr. Reardon shares how the pelvic floor serves as an "emotional barometer." She recounts powerful patient stories and her own experience during Hurricane Ida, demonstrating how stress and trauma directly impact pelvic floor function.

Sexual Health Revolution

Breaking down barriers around sexual education, Dr. Reardon explains the anatomy of arousal, orgasm, and why painful sex is never normal. She advocates for comprehensive sexual health education that goes far beyond "sperm meets egg" to include pleasure, function, and the pelvic floor's central role.

The Teenage Years: A Critical Window

Dr. Reardon makes a compelling case for pelvic health education starting in adolescence, addressing everything from painful periods (which are NOT normal) to the 40% of high school female athletes who experience urinary incontinence. She emphasizes how early education can prevent decades of silent suffering.

Beyond the Pelvic Floor: An Integrated Approach

Using her "layers of an onion" metaphor, Dr. Reardon explains how effective treatment must address posture, breathing, abdominal function, and emotional health alongside pelvic floor muscles. She challenges the medical system's tendency to isolate symptoms rather than treating the whole person.

The Healthcare Revolution Needed

Dr. Reardon calls for systematic changes in medical education and practice, advocating for screening tools, better provider training, and the integration of pelvic health into standard women's healthcare rather than treating it as a last resort.

Episode Chapters

00:00-03:12: Introduction and Book Launch Celebration – Dr. Reardon returns to discuss her new book "Floored"

03:12-05:59: Breaking Down the Biggest Misconceptions – Why most women don't know they have a pelvic floor

05:59-08:57: The Balance Principle – Understanding hypertonic vs. hypotonic pelvic floors and why Kegels aren't universal

08:57-12:07: The Power of Advocacy – Why your voice is your most powerful tool in healthcare

12:07-14:54: Sexual Health Deep Dive – The pelvic floor's role in arousal, lubrication, and orgasm

14:54-17:57: The Emotional Connection – How the pelvic floor serves as an emotional barometer

17:57-20:49: Stress and Trauma Impact – Personal stories and Hurricane Ida's effect on pelvic floor tension

20:49-23:11: Integrated Treatment Approaches – Why comprehensive care includes mental health support

23:11-24:09: The Comprehensive Philosophy – Moving beyond isolated pelvic floor treatment

24:09-26:25: Teenage Years as the Critical Window – Why pelvic health education should start early

26:25-29:09: Breaking the Shame Cycle – Creating open conversations about bodies and function

29:09-31:42: The "Layers of an Onion" Approach – Understanding the pelvic floor as part of an integrated system

31:42-35:42: Resources for Healthcare Providers – Screening tools and outcome measures

35:42-40:50: The Mesh Crisis That Changed Everything – Dr. Reardon's pivotal experience with surgical complications

40:50-End: Advocacy and Action – The mission to make pelvic health standard care

Key Takeaways

• Pelvic floor dysfunction affects women at all life stages, not just after childbirth or during aging
• Balance between strength and relaxation is more important than just doing Kegels
• Painful periods, painful sex, and urinary incontinence are never normal and always treatable
• Stress and emotional trauma directly impact pelvic floor function
• Early education during teenage years can prevent decades of dysfunction
• Comprehensive treatment must address the whole person, not just isolated symptoms
• Healthcare providers need better training and screening tools for pelvic health issues
• Women deserve better care and must advocate for themselves within the medical system

Connect with Dr. Sara Reardon

• Instagram: @the.vagina.whisperer
• TikTok: @thevagwhisperer
• Website: thevaginawhisperer.com
• Book: "Floored: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage" (Available at all major bookstores)
• Online Platform: V-Hive membership with pelvic floor workouts and free trial available

Connect with The Hole Shebang

• Website: Blueberry Therapy Pelvic Health and Pediatrics
• Instagram: @blueberrytherapypelvichealth
• Upcoming Event: The Pleasure Principle Conference

Dr. Sara's Theme Song

"Who Runs the World? Girls" by Beyoncé - A powerful anthem that captures her mission to advocate for women's health and the belief that women are leading the charge in demanding better healthcare.