Pediatric Pelvic Health: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding the Assessment & Treatment

When it comes to our children, their health and happiness come first. That's why at Ottawa Pelvic Health, we believe it's essential to talk openly about pediatric pelvic health and help parents understand it. Many don't realize that issues like bedwetting or daytime accidents are common—and highly treatable. What's normal? Most children are fully potty trained by age 4.

What Causes Pediatric Pelvic Health Conditions?

These conditions can stem from physical factors (like weak pelvic floor or core muscles), behavioral habits (such as low fluid/fiber intake), or unresolved potty training challenges. Importantly, urinary issues are often connected to bowel health, especially constipation.

Common Symptoms and Conditions

1. Bedwetting (Enuresis)

   Children don't wake up to urinate, leading to nighttime accidents. This affects about 10% of 7-year-olds.

2. Daytime Urinary Incontinence

   Occurs in 7–10% of kids aged 5–13, often making school or social situations difficult.

3. Fecal Incontinence

   Shows as soiling, smearing in underwear, or leakage throughout the day.

4. Overactive Bladder

   Frequent trips (>8 times/day) with sudden urgency ("I gotta go NOW!"), often with leaks before reaching the bathroom.

5. Pelvic, Low Back, or Hip Pain

   Caused by tight muscles in the pelvic floor, hips, low back, or lower body.

Assessment & Treatment at Ottawa Pelvic Health

Family-Centered Approach:

• Gentle Assessments: Done with parents present (per family preference). All external—no internal exams like in adults. We evaluate movement, abdominal area, low back, hips, and pelvic muscle control.

• Customized Treatment: Includes bladder/bowel diaries, fluid/fiber tracking, pelvic floor relaxation (breathing, stretches), strengthening exercises, and behavioral education.

Ready to Get Started?

If your child could benefit, reach out to Ottawa Pelvic Health. We're here to help them thrive. Book your consultation today and take the first step toward a confident, accident-free life.

1. https://academic.oup.com/pch/article/28/6/362/7280883

2. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/1115/p599.html

3. https://pedpsych.org/encopresis-in-children-and-adolescents

4. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11934-000-0008-8

5. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/functional-fecal-incontinence-in-infants-and-children-clinical-features-and-diagnosis