Why Pelvic Floor Therapy Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Kathryn Nemann Hale

Postpartum recovery is about more than just bouncing back—it’s about healing, strength, and long-term well-being. That’s why we sat down with Dr. Kathryn Nemann Hale, the creator of the Pelvic Floor Coaching programs at FemBridge, to talk about why pelvic floor therapy is important for moms.

FemBridge, is "an all-in-one source for women’s health, we have developed solutions designed by women, for women, focusing on education, support, and meeting women where they are." In this interview, Dr. Nemann Hale shares what led her to maternal health, the often-overlooked importance of pelvic floor therapy, and how it can help moms recover, feel stronger, and regain confidence after childbirth.

Can you share your journey to becoming a pelvic floor physical therapist
and what inspired you to specialize in this area of health?

My journey to becoming a pelvic floor physical therapist was a natural progression
shaped by personal experiences and professional observations. I started my career as
an orthopedic physical therapist in an outpatient clinic. With my husband’s career
leading us to relocate several times, this gave me the opportunity to work in a variety of
clinics across the country. As I worked with a diverse range of patients, I started to notice significant gaps in the healthcare services available to women, especially in pelvic floor health. The more I interacted with women of all ages, and from different walks of life, the more I realized how often pelvic health issues were overlooked or misunderstood. While I found deep fulfillment in treating my patients, there was an underlying sense that something was missing. This realization sparked my interest in pelvic floor physical therapy, and I began shadowing and mentoring a pelvic floor specialist to learn more.
The further I immersed myself in this specialty, the more I fell in love with the work. I
saw firsthand how impactful pelvic floor therapy could be for patients dealing with a wide range of issues: from incontinence and pelvic pain to postpartum recovery and more. The improvements I saw in my patients’ lives were incredibly rewarding, both
professionally and personally.

As I grew older and my friends and family began having children, I found myself more
attuned to the struggles many women face in silence, such as postpartum recovery,
pelvic floor dysfunction, and the lack of education around these conditions. I became
passionate about the need to improve how women’s health is addressed in the medical
field. These conversations with those closest to me underscored the importance of
advocating for better care, education, and treatment options.
Ultimately, this growing awareness and my own experiences led me to pursue
advanced training in pelvic floor physical therapy. Now, I see it as my mission to
contribute to the solution by providing specialized care that helps women feel
empowered in their bodies and reclaim their quality of life. I’m excited to be part of a
field that is slowly gaining the recognition it deserves and where I can continue to make
a meaningful difference in the lives of women.

What is the Pelvic Floor Coaching Program at FemBridge, and how did the
idea for it come about?

The Pelvic Floor Coaching Program at FemBridge is a unique, integrative approach that
combines my expertise as a pelvic floor physical therapist, certified exercise trainer,
nutrition health coach, and Pilates instructor into one comprehensive program. It is a research-backed, holistic model designed to empower women in taking control of their
pelvic health and overall well-being. The program addresses not just the physical
aspects of pelvic floor health, but also the lifestyle factors that contribute to long-term
wellness, such as exercise, nutrition, and mental well-being.

The idea for the program came about through a serendipitous connection with the
incredible founders of FemBridge, Maggie and Traci. I noticed Maggie’s work in
women’s health and saw that we both attended the same University, which immediately
sparked my interest. I reached out to her via LinkedIn, and from there, our relationship
grew organically. Collaborating with the FemBridge team has been an absolute joy and I’m thrilled to have a hand in building these programs. Together, we have worked hard to create a resource that not only fills the gaps in pelvic health but also encourages women to prioritize their well-being. It’s been incredibly fulfilling to see how the program helps
women take proactive steps toward better health, and we’re excited to continue expanding our reach and supporting more women as they strive to be their best selves.

Pelvic floor health is often overlooked or misunderstood. What are some
common misconceptions you encounter, and how do you address them in
your work?

One of the biggest misconceptions is the belief that you only need to seek help if
something is "wrong". While pelvic floor rehabilitation is certainly effective for treating
specific issues, such as incontinence, pain, or prolapse, it’s also about optimizing pelvic
health and function. Pelvic floor care isn't just for those with a diagnosis or a problem; it
can benefit anyone who wants to enhance their daily function, prevent issues down the
road, or improve overall well-being. In fact, the pelvic floor plays a vital role in everything
from posture to core strength, so maintaining its health throughout life, whether during
pregnancy, menopause, or beyond, is crucial for women of all ages.

Another common misconception is the idea that simply doing "Kegels" will solve all pelvic floor problems. Many people assume that strengthening exercises are the catch-all solution. However, this isn’t always the case. In fact, some women’s pelvic floors
become "hypertonic" meaning the muscles are too tense or tight. It’s similar to a bicep muscle that’s stuck in a contracted position - unable to lengthen or fully contract. When the pelvic floor muscles are in this state, doing more strengthening exercises, like Kegels, can actually worsen the problem by increasing tension.

Both misconceptions are best addressed with a personalized approach. My goal is to
work with each woman to assess their unique needs, whether they’re dealing with
weakness, tension, or a combination of both. Together, we can determine the most
effective treatment plan, which may include relaxation techniques, breath work, nutrition
and habit modifications, or specific exercises tailored to their situation. My approach is always holistic, aiming to restore balance and function so women can feel like
themselves again, without unnecessary discomfort or limitations.

Can you explain how the Pelvic Floor Coaching Program works and the
type of support it provides for individuals?

The Pelvic Floor Coaching Program at FemBridge is designed to provide tailored,
comprehensive support to women at various stages of life, from pregnancy through
menopause. It’s divided into three main bundles: Prenatal Prep, Postpartum Recovery,
and Menopause Support, each created specifically for women navigating these key
transitions. Every program includes educational resources, an exercise library with
videos, and a range of practical tools, all drawn from my background as a pelvic floor
physical therapist, certified health coach, exercise trainer, and Pilates teacher.

The beauty of the Pelvic Floor Coaching Program is its holistic approach. The materials
you will find are not just informative, they are actionable. Whether you are preparing for
pregnancy, recovering postpartum, or managing the challenges of menopause, the
content is both relevant and easy to follow, all in one accessible platform. A key feature of the program is the personalized support I provide through one-on-one virtual appointments. These sessions allow us to connect directly and assess where you
are starting from, what your goals are, and how best to create a customized plan
moving forward. This individualized approach ensures that each participant gets the
support they need to thrive at each stage of their journey.

In addition to the virtual sessions, I am also available for direct messaging through the
FemBridge app. This provides ongoing support, check-ins, and answers to any
questions that may arise as you progress through the program. Whether it’s about
specific exercises, modifications for your body, or general wellness, you can reach out
to me whenever needed for guidance and encouragement. The overarching goal of this program is to act as a guide through life’s key transitions, providing a well-rounded, supportive, and science-backed approach to pelvic health. Whether you're preparing your body for pregnancy, navigating the changes that come with postpartum recovery, or managing pelvic health during menopause, I’m here to help you feel confident, informed, and empowered. With a strong foundation in pelvic floor rehabilitation, nutrition, fitness, and overall wellness, this program is not just about recovery; it’s about optimizing your pelvic health and empowering you to be the best version of yourself, through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.

What are some of the most common pelvic floor issues you see in your
practice, and how can addressing them improve someone’s overall well-
being?

In my practice, I commonly work with women during pregnancy, postpartum, and
perimenopause/menopause, each of which presents unique pelvic floor challenges.
Within these stages, there are a variety of issues that can arise, and addressing them
can significantly improve a woman’s overall well-being.

For pregnant individuals, a key focus is alleviating discomfort and the physical strain
that comes with carrying a growing baby. This often includes managing common pains
like pelvic girdle pain, lower back pain, or round ligament discomfort. I also work with
women to enhance mobility, prepare their bodies for labor and delivery, and address
pelvic pain that may arise as the pregnancy progresses.

After childbirth, whether vaginal or via cesarean, many women seek pelvic floor
rehabilitation to regain strength, stability, and function. Postpartum recovery often
involves addressing issues such as pelvic floor weakness, diastasis recti (abdominal
separation), and incontinence. Helping women rebuild core strength and pelvic stability
is key to ensuring they feel strong, supported, and confident in their bodies as they
transition into motherhood.

For women entering perimenopause and menopause, pelvic floor issues can evolve due
to hormonal changes, which may lead to loss of strength, control, or elasticity in the
pelvic floor muscles. One of the most common issues I address at this stage is
incontinence or leaking, which can affect daily life and overall quality of living. Many
women also experience pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, or discomfort during
intimacy, problems that can be both physically and emotionally draining.

Addressing these pelvic floor issues not only improves physical health but also
enhances overall well-being and quality of life. Whether a woman is navigating her first
pregnancy, managing the demands of motherhood, maintaining an active lifestyle as an
athlete, or seeking to regain confidence and function as she enters menopause, pelvic
floor health plays a crucial role in maintaining day-to-day functioning, emotional well-
being, and overall vitality. By addressing these concerns, we empower women to feel
more in control, comfortable, and confident in their bodies at every stage of life.

How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals, like OB-GYNs
or lactation consultants, to create comprehensive care plans for your
clients?

In my practice, I believe that a multi-modal, collaborative approach is essential to
helping clients achieve their best health. By working together with other healthcare professionals, such as OB-GYNs, lactation consultants, midwives, and doulas, we can create comprehensive care plans that address all aspects of a woman’s well-being. Collaboration is at the heart of optimal care. Often, clients come to me through referrals or recommendations from their primary care providers, whether it’s a formal script or simply a suggestion to seek specialized pelvic floor care. Once a client chooses to work with me, I prioritize maintaining open, ongoing communication with the rest of their care team. This ensures we’re aligned in our approach and can adjust the care plan as needed to best serve the client’s evolving needs.

The strength of working with a multidisciplinary team lies in the complementary
expertise each provider brings to the table. While my focus is on pelvic health, other
professionals offer insights and skills that extend beyond my scope, such as
reproductive care, lactation support, and emotional well-being. When we work in
concert, we’re able to create a holistic care experience that addresses not just physical
health, but also the emotional and psychological needs of the client. For example, during the postpartum period, my collaboration with lactation consultants can help ensure that pelvic health issues don’t interfere with breastfeeding, while OB-GYNs can address any hormonal or gynecological concerns. This seamless integration of care means the client has a well-rounded support system, and all aspects of their health are nurtured throughout their journey.

Ultimately, by working together and respecting the unique contributions of each
professional, we create a supportive, individualized care plan that helps women thrive at
every stage of life.

What role does education play in your coaching program, and how do you
empower individuals to take control of their pelvic health?

Education is a cornerstone of the coaching programs I’ve developed, as I believe
knowledge is key to empowering women to take charge of their health at every stage of
life. Each program includes a carefully curated set of educational resources available
via the app, ensuring that the information aligns with the program’s mission and
supports the client's personal health journey.

For example, the Prenatal Prep Program offers instructional handouts on topics such as
breathwork for labor, techniques for performing a perineal massage, and tips for
preparing for a cesarean section, helping expectant mothers feel informed and prepared
for different birth scenarios. The Postpartum Recovery Program includes materials on how to reconnect with your core and pelvic floor after birth, how to recognize and self-assess diastasis recti, and how to safely return to activities like running, ensuring a smooth transition during the postpartum period.

The Menopause Support Program provides valuable information on understanding
perimenopause and menopause, including common symptoms and tools for managing
them. It also includes exercise guidelines for building a personalized routine, nutrition
recommendations, stress management strategies, and tips for optimizing sleep to
support overall well-being during this life transition.

In addition to these program-specific materials, the app and website feature universal
educational resources, such as a comprehensive guide to understanding the pelvic floor
- how it changes during pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond - as well as clear
instructions on how to properly activate the core and pelvic floor musculature.
Each exercise within the programs comes with detailed instructions on how to perform
them safely, along with video demonstrations and progressions, so clients don’t need to
memorize anything. This makes it easy for women to follow their program and feel
confident in their ability to do the exercises correctly, no matter how busy their lives get.
Additionally, the FemBridge app includes recommended products to support women at
all stages of life, ensuring they have access to tools that can further enhance their
health and recovery. I strongly believe that the more a woman understands her own body and health, the more empowered she will feel to make informed decisions and show up for herself. By offering these resources, I strive to give women the knowledge and tools they need to feel confident, capable, and supported in their health journey.

For someone new to the concept of pelvic floor therapy, what advice would
you give them to start exploring this aspect of their health?

For someone new to pelvic floor therapy, my first piece of advice is to not feel scared or
intimidated by this new aspect of your health. It’s completely natural to feel uncertain
when exploring something unfamiliar, but I want to reassure you that you are not alone.
The women’s health community is one of the most welcoming and supportive spaces I
have encountered, where women genuinely lift each other up and provide the care and
encouragement needed to feel empowered on your journey.

It is important to approach pelvic health with an open mind and find a pelvic health
professional who feels aligned with your goals and values. Whether you are dealing with
specific symptoms or simply want to learn more about maintaining your pelvic floor
health, there are compassionate practitioners out there who are ready to help guide you
toward optimal health. Take your time to research and find a provider who makes you
feel heard, respected, and comfortable. I understand that starting the conversation about pelvic health can feel intimidating, especially because of the stigma surrounding it. But remember, there are no "wrong" questions – you have every right to ask anything! Don’t feel embarrassed; pelvic health is as vital as any other aspect of your physical health, and getting the care you need is essential.

It is crucial we break the stigma around pelvic health. The more we talk openly about it, the more we normalize seeking help and prioritize this aspect of our well-being. You
deserve the support and resources that will help you live your healthiest, most
empowered life. So, take the leap, ask questions, and connect with the practitioners
who are eager to support you.

How does the Pelvic Floor Coaching Program support postpartum
individuals, and the unique challenges they face in regaining pelvic
health?

The Postpartum Recovery Program within the FemBridge bundles is specifically
designed to support individuals in the postpartum period, addressing the unique
physical and emotional challenges that come with this transition. Unfortunately, many
women experience a disconnect between the time of their 6-week postpartum check-up
and when they are truly ready to return to physical activities. It is common for women to
be given the “all-clear” at this appointment without clear guidance on how to safely
resume exercise, return to activities they love, or reconnect with their bodies. This lack
of direction can often leave new mothers feeling confused, overwhelmed, and unsure of
where to begin. That is where the Postpartum Recovery Program comes in. My goal with this program is to fill in the gaps and offer clear, evidence-based guidance to help women feel confident and empowered as they navigate the recovery process. The program serves as a comprehensive roadmap, allowing me to walk alongside them by providing support, structure, and encouragement as they regain their strength and restore balance to their body.

The postpartum period can feel disorienting; many women experience a shift in how
their body feels and often struggle with symptoms like pelvic pain, incontinence,
diastasis recti, or simply a feeling of "not being themselves." These changes can be physically and emotionally challenging, leaving women unsure of how to safely
reintroduce exercise or activity into their routine. The program aims to address these
specific concerns and offer practical steps for progression, tips on how to reconnect with
the pelvic floor, and detailed exercises designed to strengthen the core and restore
pelvic health. A key element of the Postpartum Recovery Program is providing guidance on what is safe at each stage of recovery. The program is structured to support gradual, step-by-step progress, allowing individuals to build strength and confidence over time. It is not about rushing back into exercise or pushing limits too soon, it is about finding the right pace for each individual’s body and recovery timeline. My goal is to help women
understand when and how to progress, while also addressing common questions like,
"What’s safe?" and "How can I achieve my personal goals without compromising my
health?" Ultimately, this holistic program is about empowering women to reclaim their bodies and their confidence after childbirth.

What is your vision for the future of pelvic floor therapy and coaching, and
how do you hope programs like yours will impact the field?

My vision for the future of pelvic floor therapy and women’s health is centered on
increased awareness and greater accessibility. For far too long, pelvic health has been
a topic shrouded in stigma and silence, with many women unaware of the importance of
addressing issues like pelvic pain, incontinence, or pelvic floor dysfunction. The more
we can normalize conversations around pelvic health and emphasize its significance,
the more empowered women will feel to seek support and prioritize their well-being.
Breaking down these barriers will create a future where every woman feels comfortable
taking charge of her pelvic health.

To make that vision a reality, accessibility is key. Programs like FemBridge are a crucial
step in making high-quality, individualized pelvic health support available to every
woman, regardless of location. With the ability to connect women from all over the
country with practitioners like myself, we are eliminating the geographical limitations that often prevent those from getting the care they need. Virtual support and online
resources can bridge the gap between highly specialized pelvic health care and the
many women who may not have access to local providers. By offering one-on-one
coaching, tailored exercise programs, and educational materials, FemBridge ensures
that women can receive personalized care that fits into their busy lives, no matter their
location. The tides are already turning when it comes to awareness around women’s health. More women are beginning to recognize the importance of pelvic floor health, not just during pregnancy or postpartum, but as a lifelong consideration. With the rise of social media, online communities, and more open discussions about pelvic health, we’re
seeing a cultural shift towards greater acceptance and understanding. It’s an incredibly
exciting time to be a part of this field and witness the positive changes happening in
real-time.

I hope that programs like FemBridge will continue to lead the charge in making pelvic
floor therapy more mainstream, accessible, and integrated into overall health care. By
providing resources, education, and personalized support, we can ensure that every
woman has the tools she needs to live her healthiest, most confident life. Ultimately, my goal is to be part of a larger movement that helps to destigmatize pelvic health and
empowers women to take control of their bodies, no matter what stage of life they’re in.

 

Caring for your pelvic floor isn’t just about postpartum recovery—it’s about feeling strong and supported at every stage of life. A big thank you to Dr. Nemann Hale for sharing their wisdom and reminding us that we don’t have to just ‘deal with’ discomfort. If something feels off, trust your body and seek help. You deserve to feel your best!

 

 

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