Anna Watson is a member of Pelvic Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) and has over 15 years experience in women’s health physiotherapy.

As a mum of 2 and a trained Doula, she can empathise with her patients and can contribute enhanced skills to fully understand and implement the best management for her pregnant patients.

Working in women’s health for many years, she can see the emergence of a need to address the changes women undergo through menopause and a need to support this. She is passionate about enabling women to be the best they can be.

Pregnancy-related pelvic girdle pain (PGP) is a common condition affecting up to 1 in 5 pregnant individuals. It refers to discomfort, pain, or instability in the pelvic region, particularly around the sacroiliac joints, pubic symphysis, and sometimes the lower back. PGP can vary from mild discomfort to severe pain, significantly affecting mobility and quality of life.

Urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine often caused by weak or tight pelvic floor muscles. There are different types of urinary incontinence: stress incontinence (leakage with increased pressure like sneezing, coughing or exercising) and urgency incontinence (also known as overactive bladder, with a sudden and intense urge to urinate). It affects individuals of all ages but is more common in women, particularly during and after pregnancy, as well as in older adults. Despite its prevalence, many people hesitate to seek treatment due to embarrassment or the misconception that it is an inevitable part of aging or childbirth.

Pelvic pain refers to discomfort or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic region. It is often caused by reproductive conditions (e.g. endometriosis and pelvic inflammatory disease), muscle tension, vaginal prolapse, surgery, vulvodynia or bowel health. It can be chronic or acute, affecting daily activities.

Diastasis recti is the separation of the abdominal muscles, often as a result of pregnancy. This condition can result in a visible bulge or gap in the middle of the tummy muscles and may lead to weakness in core strength and stability. The problem of split abdominals has been linked with negative body image and quality of life, highlighting the importance of its impact in the post natal population.

Constipation is characterised by infrequent, difficult or painful bowel movements. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as: poor diet, dehydration, pelvic floor dysfunction, hormonal changes, pregnancy, lack of physical activity or underlying medical conditions. Treatment often involves dietary changes, fluid diary, regular physical activity, home exercise programmes and manual therapy.

Menopause-related dysfunctions occur as hormonal changes affect various bodily systems. Common issues can include: urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, tendon pain, vaginal dryness, muscle atrophy, reduced libido and vaginal prolapse. Physiotherapy can help manage symptoms through pelvic floor muscle training, home exercise programmes, manual therapy, advice and education on lifestyle changes to improve function, comfort and overall wellbeing during the menopause.