Hope For Your Pelvic Floor - The Whole Body Pelvic Health Conversation

Most of us were never taught what the pelvic floor really is or how it works. We’re told to “do our pelvic floor exercises” as if we already know the anatomy, when in reality, the design is far more clever, flexible, and restorative than the myths suggest.In this episode, Claire Sparrow breaks down the true structure of the pelvic floor—its interwoven muscles, fascia, and adaptability—so you can finally understand how it’s meant to function. You’ll learn why kegels alone aren’t the answer, how your pelvic floor connects to the rest of your body, and why its very design gives us hope for healing.If you’ve ever wondered what’s really going on “down there,” this is the anatomy lesson you wish you’d had years ago.Join the next Pelvic Health cafe 26th September 2025

Season 3 kicks off with reflections, inspiration, and fresh energy! In this episode, Claire shares the highlights of her summer—from teaching in Joseph Pilates’ original New York studio, to adventures with her family in Scotland, to rediscovering joy and variety in her own practice. You’ll hear why pelvic health is about so much more than exercises—it’s about living fully, embracing curiosity, and appreciating what your body can do. Claire also offers simple journal prompts to help you set your own focus for the months ahead, so you can close out the year with intention and hope for your pelvic floor.

In this heartfelt season finale of Hope for Your Pelvic Floor, Claire Sparrow steps away from science and symptoms to share the story behind her work—through the remarkable women who shaped her.From her 95-year-old great aunt who introduced her to Pilates as a child, to her patient grandmother, her trailblazing mother, empowering schoolteachers, and the inspiring mentor who first guided her into the Pilates studio—Claire reflects on the women who quietly changed the course of her life.This episode is a love letter to intergenerational wisdom, the power of movement, and the everyday women who light the way for others. It’s about what happens when someone believes in you—whether you’re five years old or 45—and how that belief ripples through your life and the lives you go on to touch.Whether you're a Pilates teacher, a woman navigating pelvic health, or someone needing a reminder that there’s always a way in—this one’s for you.

Stop Squeezing – Start Asking: What’s Actually Right for Your Pelvic Floor?If you're feeling overwhelmed by pelvic floor advice—apps, supplements, Kegels, gadgets—this episode is your breath of fresh, grounded air. Claire Sparrow invites you to ditch the one-size-fits-all pressure and get radically curious about what’s right for you.You’ll learn:Why “just squeeze” is outdated—and what actually supports lasting pelvic healthHow to tune into your body’s needs, not just trendsThe 8 reflective questions that act as a decision-making filter for anything from exercises to supplementsHow to reframe the way you think about healing, tension, and progressWhether you’re navigating prolapse, incontinence, or just trying to figure out what works in a noisy wellness world, Claire equips you with tools to reclaim your body confidence—one curious question at a time.Because your pelvic floor deserves more than a quick fix. It deserves you, fully informed and self-led.Use Claire’s 8-question filter to evaluate devices, supplements, and exercise choicesJoin the conversation in the Whole Body Pelvic Health Facebook GroupVisit wholebodypelvichealth.co.uk to explore deeper supportJoin the collagen seaweed revolution and receive 20% discount.

Whether you're a Pilates teacher or a woman attending class each week, this episode is your essential guide to supporting pelvic floor health the right way.Claire Sparrow unpacks the five foundational concepts of the Whole Body Pelvic Health Method—mindset, breath, release, range of movement, and coordination—and explains how they transform the way we approach Pilates. These aren’t just ideas for better movement; they’re a new lens through which to understand and truly support your body.You’ll learn:Why “just squeeze” is outdated advice—and what to do insteadThe power of breath coordination and why it’s more than just inhale/exhaleWhat’s really behind “tight hamstrings” and how release creates healingHow joint movement and posture affect your pelvic floorWhy strength comes last, after restoring balance and responsivenessThis episode is for every woman who wants to get more out of her practice—and for every teacher who wants to safely and confidently support the women they serve.Pilates is already powerful—this is how you make it pelvic floor smart.Join Claire in New York City on 27th July at Joseph Pilates’ original studio, Nice & Tall Pilates: Book Your SpotExplore the Whole Body Pelvic Health Membership at wholebodypelvichealth.co.ukRead (or listen to!) Claire’s bestselling book HOPE for Your Pelvic Floor

This week, Claire Sparrow reflects on the powerful stories, breakthroughs, and truths that emerged during Prolapse Awareness Month. With over 300 women participating in her free challenge, a clear theme rose to the surface: Kegels aren’t the answer for everyone — and for many, they’ve made symptoms worse.In this honest and inspiring solo episode, Claire shares the real feedback from her community, busts common prolapse myths, and explores why personalised, whole-body approaches are essential for pelvic health. From the relief of finally feeling seen, to the empowerment that comes from shared stories and consistent, simple practices, this episode is both a celebration and a call to keep the momentum going.🔹 Why so many women feel failed by traditional advice🔹 What happens when women realise they’re not alone🔹 The surprising impact of ditching Kegels🔹 How community, consistency, and education build lasting confidence🔹 What comes next after Prolapse Awareness MonthWhether you’re new to this journey or deep in the work, you’ll walk away with renewed hope and clarity. Because your prolapse story doesn’t have to end in fear — it can begin in confidence, connection, and choice.

In this episode of 'Hope for Your Pelvic Floor', Claire Sparrow discusses the challenges of integrating pelvic health practices into busy lives. She emphasizes the importance of breathing techniques to manage overwhelm and shares practical strategies for incorporating pelvic floor exercises into daily routines. Claire encourages listeners to start small, choose one exercise, and give themselves grace in their journey towards better pelvic health.TakeawaysPelvic health is about reconnecting with yourself.Breathing techniques can help manage overwhelm.Every movement counts, no matter how small.It's important to give yourself grace in your practice.Choose one exercise to integrate into your day.Overwhelm can be a barrier to starting pelvic health practices.Simple strategies can help fit pelvic health into busy lives.Involve family members in your pelvic health journey.Transitioning activities can create space for pelvic health practices.Consistency is key, even if it looks different each day.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pelvic Health Awareness03:08 The Importance of Breathing for Pelvic Health05:56 Overcoming Time Constraints for Pelvic Floor Exercises08:53 Strategies to Manage Overwhelm and Start Exercising12:09 Simple Exercises for Prolapse Management15:04 Integrating Movement into Daily Life17:53 Involving Family in Pelvic Health Practices21:09 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this deeply honest and empowering episode of Hope for Your Pelvic Floor, Claire Sparrow explores a message that challenges the fear-based narrative so many women face: “Prolapse isn’t dangerous—the way we talk about it is.”Claire shares her personal journey and the stories of women she's worked with to shine a light on the often-overlooked emotional and neurological impact of a prolapse diagnosis. You’ll learn how fear—not the prolapse itself—can trigger physical tension, shallow breathing, and loss of trust in your body. And you’ll discover simple, science-informed ways to reclaim your power and return to movement with confidence.Whether you're newly diagnosed or years into your pelvic health journey, this episode offers validation, clarity, and a whole-body approach to support your healing—starting with your breath.Join Prolapse Awareness month freeWhy a prolapse diagnosis can send you into a fear spiral—and how to get out of itHow the nervous system and pelvic floor are intimately connectedWhat happens to your breathing and body in fight-or-flightThe power of asking: “Does this actually make my symptoms worse?”Why avoiding movement may do more harm than goodHow Whole Body Pelvic Health offers hope, autonomy, and lasting supportGrounding breathwork to calm your nervous systemGentle movement to restore coordination and trustMindset shifts to move from fearful to freeEncouragement to ask, explore, and choose what works for you“Prolapse isn’t dangerous. The fear around it is.”“When we grip in fear, our symptoms worsen.”“The pelvic floor doesn’t work in isolation—it works with your whole body.”“You get to ask the question: does this really make my symptoms worse?”“Less gripping. More trust.”

In this episode of Hope for Your Pelvic Floor, Claire Sparrow challenges the conventional approach to pelvic health and invites you to explore the transformative potential of the Whole Body Pelvic Health method.You’ll learn why Kegels alone aren’t the answer, how fascia, neural pathways, and biotensegrity play a vital role in pelvic floor function, and why balance and breath are essential to long-term healing. Claire shares how pelvic health is about reconnecting to your whole self—not just strengthening muscles.Whether you're navigating prolapse, incontinence, or hypertonic muscles, this episode will empower you to take charge of your health with practical insights and a fresh mindset.Join Prolapse Awareness Month Join the Pelvic Health CafeJoin The Membership Key Takeaways:Pelvic health is a whole-body issue—not just about weakness.Breathwork and balance are foundational to healing.The pelvic floor is interconnected with the entire body.Mindset, beliefs, and nervous system patterns influence recovery.You have the power to be the curator of your pelvic health journey.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Pelvic Health Solutions05:51 – Understanding Whole Body Pelvic Health11:41 – The Role of Neural Pathways in Pelvic Health19:12 – Restoring Balance and Communication28:16 – Empowerment Through Choice in Pelvic HealthQuotes:“Kegels miss the point!”“Your pelvic floor is not isolated.”“Whole body pelvic health is the key.”“Balance is crucial for pelvic health.”“You get to choose what makes sense for you.”Keywords:pelvic health, whole body pelvic health, Kegels, women's health, pelvic floor exercises, fascia, biotensegrity, breath work, neural pathways, holistic pelvic health, pelvic floor function, movement science, prolapse recovery, incontinence support

Hope For Your Pelvic Floor Season 2 - Episode 17Living with Prolapse: The Mental and Emotional Impact No One Talks AboutSummaryIn this episode of 'Hope for Your Pelvic Floor', Claire Sparrow discusses the multifaceted aspects of pelvic organ prolapse, emphasising the emotional, psychosocial, and lifestyle impacts on women. She highlights the importance of community support, self-trust, and practical strategies to manage symptoms effectively. The conversation aims to empower women to take charge of their pelvic health and encourages open discussions about prolapse to reduce stigma and isolation.TakeawaysPelvic health encompasses more than just physical exercises.Emotional and lifestyle factors significantly impact women with prolapse.Many women feel isolated and embarrassed about their condition.Open conversations about prolapse can reduce stigma.Self-trust is crucial for women managing their health.Community support is vital for emotional well-being.Lifestyle changes can help manage prolapse symptoms.Sleep hygiene plays a key role in overall health.Women should focus on what they can do, not what they can't.Investing in practical tools can improve daily life."It's about reconnecting with choice.""You are not alone in this experience.""Sleep hygiene is crucial for healing."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Pelvic Health Conversations00:44 Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse05:48 The Psychosocial Impact of Prolapse19:41 Practical Strategies for Managing Prolapse25:28 finalkeywordspelvic health, pelvic organ prolapse, psychosocial impact, lifestyle changes, women's health, emotional support, pelvic floor exercises, community support, self-trust, health education

Season 2 Episode 16 SummaryIn this episode of 'Hope for Your Pelvic Floor', Claire Sparrow discusses the complexities of pelvic organ prolapse and critiques the traditional medical model of treatment. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the body as a whole rather than isolating pelvic floor exercises. Claire advocates for a whole body approach to pelvic health, encouraging listeners to consider their unique experiences and the coordination of their muscles rather than simply focusing on strength. The episode concludes with an invitation to explore alternative methods and resources for pelvic health.TakeawaysHealth isn't just about exercises; it's about reconnecting with breath.The medical model often fails to address the root causes of prolapse.Traditional pelvic floor exercises may not yield significant improvements.Strengthening exercises are based on the faulty assumption of weak muscles.Coordination of muscles is crucial for pelvic health.The pelvic floor is not just a floor; it's a central part of the body.Whole body health considers the entire person and their history.Scar tissue and injuries can affect pelvic floor function.Women need to be fully informed about their treatment options.Exploring alternative methods can lead to better outcomes for pelvic health.Rethinking Pelvic Health: A Whole Body ApproachThe Flaws in the Medical Model of Prolapse Treatment"Health isn't just about exercises.""The medical model doesn't work.""You need to be fully informed."Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Pelvic Health and Prolapse Series04:15 - Understanding the Medical Model of Prolapse Treatment11:12 - The Whole Body Approach to Pelvic Health16:34 - Empowering Choices in Pelvic Health20:04 - finalKeywordspelvic health, pelvic organ prolapse, medical model, whole body approach, pelvic floor exercises, women's health, coordination, body awareness, evidence-based solutions, holistic health

Season 2 - Episode 15What Is Pelvic Organ Prolapse? Symptoms, Causes, and Why You’re Not BrokenIn this powerful kickoff to our five-part prolapse series, Claire breaks down what pelvic organ prolapse really is — beyond the scary Google results. You'll learn the key symptoms, the different types of POP, what actually causes it (hint: it’s not just weak muscles), and most importantly, why you’re not broken.Join the FREE Prolapse Awareness Month Subscribe to the Whole Body Pelvic Health Community and I’ll send you a FREE class Join The Membership

In this powerful episode of Hope for Your Pelvic Floor, Claire Sparrow pulls back the curtain on why the traditional “just do your Kegels” advice is letting so many women down — and introduces the groundbreaking Whole Body Pelvic Health Method that’s changing lives around the world.You’ll discover how this method goes beyond spot-fixing symptoms to address the true root causes of pelvic floor dysfunction — from prolapse and leaking to tight, hypertonic muscles. Claire shares how breath, posture, fascia, and the nervous system all play a role in your pelvic health — and why this whole-body, woman-centered approach works for all stages of life.You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at how this method is broken down inside the Whole Body Pelvic Health Membership, with guided pathways tailored to your individual needs.🔗 In this episode:✨ Say goodbye to quick fixes — and hello to lasting healing.Why Kegels aren't the full solutionWhat makes the Whole Body Pelvic Health Method differentThe three pillars of pelvic floor restorationHow your symptoms guide your healing pathWhy this method is for every woman, not just postpartumHow to get started inside the membershipIf you’re ready to feel hopeful, connected, and confident in your body again — this episode is your starting point.👉 Learn more atWHOLE BODY PELVIC HEALTHPELVIC HEALTH CAFE

If you’ve ever felt unsure, awkward, or even embarrassed to talk about pelvic health – you’re not alone.That’s exactly why I created the Pelvic Health Café – a free monthly gathering where we talk openly, honestly, and supportively about the realities of pelvic health.Whether you're experiencing symptoms like leaking, prolapse, pain, or just feeling disconnected from your body, this is a space for you to feel heard, informed, and never judged.What makes the Café special?It’s not a class or a webinar – it’s a conversation. A circle of women coming together to share, listen, and learn from one another. Because I truly believe:Community learning is powerfulA problem shared is a problem halvedEvery woman deserves to feel supported in her bodyJoin the next Pelvic Health Cafe Free Friday 23rd May 2025 Online 6pm uk

If you haven't read the book yet you can grab your copy here.

Think of a story, there is always a villain or two or three in any good story. But what makes them a villain? It’s because they do the wrong thing at the wrong time. What about those stories where the villain is just misguided and off track and really just needs to be taught to do the right thing at the right time. This is true for your pelvic floor. It has many friends in its story and for some of the friends fall out and become villains and they are not all bad we know that because there are no bad friends in the body. Just misguided misused ready to be brought back onto the straight and narrow. So who are these so called villains or let's call them misguided muscles? Find out more about the Whole Body Pelvic Health Method

In todays episode I’m sharing a personal story – one that involves Scotland’s coldest waters, menopause, and the surprising lessons I’ve learned about showing up for myself. We’ll talk about how fear holds so many women back from moving – and why reclaiming that connection to your body might just be the most powerful thing you can do for your pelvic floor. Whether you’re facing menopause, pelvic symptoms, or simply needing a nudge to move again, this episode is for you.Find out more about the Whole Body Pelvic Health Method Listen to the Whole Body Pelvic Health Playlist

It’s Not Just Water—It’s Fascia FuelAfter my to wee or not to wee episode of the Hope for Your Pelvic Floor Podcast episode, you have been asking some amazing questions and raising some other topics for discussion. One of which is fluid control. Meaning, controlling what and when you drink fluids. This is a huge topic because I want to share with you that you are doing the opposite of helping your bladder and pelvic floor by controlling your fluids in this way. I know this might feel counterintuitive. That's why I share some hard science with you to demonstrate what you need to know really clearly. Bladder function and pelvic floor function are not the same but they are symbiotic.

In this episode Claire talks about how to look after your pelvic floor in the workplace, in particular at your desk. Your pelvic floor is with you wherever you go and long periods of sitting can make it very difficult for you pelvic floor to function. Claire shares some tips and tricks she uses to counteract long periods of sitting.

In this episode Claire shares the results of the infamous 'just in case wee' Many women admit to going for a wee before they leave the house, before they go on along car journey or a walk. It's time to learn what that means for your bladder and your pelvic floor. Remember over on YouTube we have lots of free classes and tutorials to help you take back control of your pelvic floor.