# hellohazel.com

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- [Hazel | Luxe, innovative femme care for the ever-evolving woman](/content/site-root.html): Our little luxuries make living your best life a whole lot easier. (384 words)

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- [Manifesto – Hazel](/content/pages/manifesto/index.html): You’re evolving exquisitely. Living life so fully it’s overflowing. Growing gracefully. And behaving boldly. Your expectations are as high as your standards. And you know that the only constant is change. Which is why you’re as adaptable as they come. Accepting the ebbs and rejoicing the flows. Making up your own rules (237 words)
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- [5 Postpartum Exercises for Your Core – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/5-postpartum-exercises-for-your-core/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage. To view videos showcasing the exercises below, click here.
During pregnancy, you were probably far too in awe of the growing baby in your belly to worry about what was happening to your poor abdominal muscles. After birth, it can be hard to ignore how weak they feel. From months of strain and pressure to labor and delivery or a Cesarean surgery, your abs have been through the wringer and need both TLC and rehabilitation.
Regaining strength and functionality in your postpartum belly muscles can be key to avoiding persistent diastasis recti abdominis (DRA) as well as low back or pelvic pain. Restoring your abs can also help protect your pelvic floor and prevent common postpartum pelvic floor symptoms like bladder leaks or pain with sex.
To help you get started, our expert PTs recommend the following 5 gentle and generally safe exercises that most birthing people can try as soon as they feel up for it after birth — yes, even if you're still in the hospital or birthing center.
When to Start Postpartum Belly Exercises
In general, the very early postpartum is a time to prioritize rest and recovery. No matter how you gave birth — vaginal or cesarean — your body needs to prioritize healing and reserve what little energy you have left to help you care for your family. Going back to exercise too soon can disrupt your body’s natural healing process and can increase your risk for further injury and a prolonged recovery, which is why you should hold off on most exercises until your obstetric healthcare provider ensures you have fully healed.
That said, there are a handful of safe and specific exercises that will gently re-activate your abdominal muscles and pelvic floor, encourage healing, and set a perfect foundation for you to return to exercise, once you have been cleared to do so by your OBGYN (usually at your 6-week checkup).
While it can feel really good to get moving, if you notice any of the following, it may indicate that you are still doing too much and your body needs you to slow down:


Vaginal bleeding (not associated with menstruation)


You develop pain that doesn’t ease with rest and/or worsens with activity


Your pelvic floor symptoms worsen with activity


5 Early Postpartum Belly Exercises to Try
The following postpartum exercises may not seem like much, but they are powerful rehabilitation exercises that you won't want to skip as you slowly return to movement and exercise after birth.
1. Diaphragmatic Breathing, Supine
This exercise can almost feel too gentle and basic to be doing something, but we promise diaphragmatic breathing is the one exercise everyone should be doing, and it is the first step you should safely take when re-establishing a connection with your abdominals in the early postpartum.
During this exercise, your focus should be on properly releasing and expanding your lower ribs and abdominals with every inhale, to reduce a common postpartum breathing habit of expanding your upper chest with every inhale. This breathing pattern is not only a sneaky way to use up your precious energy, but it’s taking your abdominals on a free ride, instead of encouraging them to be an active part of the breathing process, like they are supposed to be.
How to practice diaphragmatic breathing:
Lie flat on your back in a comfortable position.


Place your hands beneath your ribs and on the sides of your belly.


Inhale, feeling your abdomen expand outward and into your hands, your pelvis and your back as your lungs fill with air. With each inhale, imagine your pelvic floor lengthening like the bottom of a balloon as it inflates with air.


Exhale, allowing your abdomen to gently recoil back towards your spine.


Tip: Try to keep your chest still- place a hand on your chest to help you see how much movement is happening there throughout this exercise.
2. Slow Walking for Short Distances
Walking can feel intimidating right after giving birth, but it’s a great activity for a number of reasons:


It helps work the muscles in your legs to encourage circulation. This will help reduce swelling, control pain, and may even help reduce thromboembolic issues in the postpartum (deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolisms), especially when used along with other preventative measures.


It can encourage gastrointestinal motility to help you pass uncomfortable gas, and reduce constipation which are common in the postpartum.


It provides a natural movement pattern during which your abdominals (along with your pelvic floor, and other important core muscles like your lumbar multifidus) naturally activate to help stabilize your back and pelvis as you locomote.


As soon as you are safely able, start some gentle walking. This can be around your room at first, or you can even sneak down to the cafeteria to snag a well deserved latte. If you need support, take the hospital bassinet cart or your partner with you. Focus on standing tall as you walk, particularly if you have had a belly birth.
3. Deep Core (Transversus Abdominis) Muscle Activation
Pregnancy will stretch your abdominal muscles to their very max, and contribute to diastasis rectus abdominis, and core muscle weakness. After birth, these muscles can feel difficult to connect with and activate when you need them to, but conscious isometric transversus abdominis activation exercises are the perfect place to start.
The following two deep core exercises will not only help you reconnect this part of your body with your brain, but will help reduce swelling, and gently mobilize new scar tissue if you have had a cesarean. Do one or both.
How to activate your transversus abdominis muscle:
Start by lying on your back while in bed or on the floor, with your knees bent and feet flat. Your hands can gently rest on your lower belly for a gentle reminder to your muscles who are about to do some work.


Inhale and feel your belly rise, filling your cradled hands.


Exhale and draw in your lower belly, pulling your belly button up and back toward your spine. This will help you activate your Transverse Abdominal muscle.


Inhale to repeat.


Tip: Practice isometrically contracting your deep abdominals and then relaxing them while coordinating the movement with your normal breathing pattern.
Where you'll feel it: Deep in your core and lower belly— the transversus abdominis muscle.
How to do Belly Lifts:
Start on your hands and knees with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips.


Inhale, filling your belly with air and relaxing it towards the ground.


Exhale, as you pull your belly button up and in towards your spine.


Tip: Keep your back flat and unmoving for the duration of the movement. Your belly is the only thing that moves, to draw in the deep abdominals.
Where you'll feel it: In your back and deep in your core - the transversus abdominus muscle.
4. Pelvic Floor Muscle Activation (aka Kegels)
Your pelvic floor will also endure a lot of change and strain during pregnancy and birth, so conscious activation of these muscles is keep as part of your core muscle system, for supporting your spine as well as all of your pelvic functions. But, this multitasking exercise does more than just activate your pelvic floor muscles. Research shows that contraction of the pelvic floor muscles encourages a co-activation of the deep abdominal muscles (without any additional effort!) So by attending to your pelvic floor health, you are also gently exercising your abdominal muscles.
How to activate your pelvic floor:
Lie flat on your back or on your side.


Inhale deeply, allowing air to fill the bottom of your lungs. Feel your lower abdomen, your low back, and your pelvic floor gently stretch outwards with your breath.


As you exhale, contract your pelvic floor muscles in a kegel, feeling your pelvic floor lift up and in and your belly button move towards your spine.


Relax your pelvic floor during the next inhale.


Tip: Once this feels easy, try to contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles while breathing normally.
5. Sit-to-Stand
The goal of this move isn't to work up a sweat by burning out your thighs and buns. In early postpartum, the aim is to slow down a super functional movement pattern — one you will undoubtedly do 100 times a day without consciously exercising — in order to consciously engage and properly use your abdominals muscles to support your spine, pelvis (and likely your newborn) as you move.
How to do Sit-to-Stands:
Sit upright in a chair with your knees hip-width apart and your ankles directly under your knees.


Pull your belly toward your spine to engage your abdominals and keep your core engaged as you move.


Lean your shoulders forward while keeping your spine straight, then squeeze your glutes, as you straighten your knees to stand. For an increased challenge, try not to use your arms.


To return to sitting, re-engage your abdominals to support your spine and push your hips back, then lean your shoulders forward as you bend your knees to slowly lower back into the chair.


For a more extensive and personalized workout that will help restore your pelvic floor and abdominals — and help you feel good in your body throughout and beyond postpartum — consider seeing a physical therapist who specializes in birth recovery. (1,766 words)
- [The Real Deal with Endometriosis – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-endometriosis/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
If you or someone you care about has endometriosis, you already know that endometriosis — which affects about 1 in 10 people with uteruses worldwide — is one of the most painful and frustrating health conditions to diagnose and treat effectively. The symptoms of endometriosis are so difficult to distinguish from other medical conditions that it's common for people to suffer for years before a provider finally connects the dots. And because the only way to be diagnosed with endometriosis requires surgery, anyone who thinks they have it is forced to take on significant medical risks and expenses to find out for sure.
Everyone's experience with endometriosis is different, but many people start to disassociate with their own body, endure medical gaslighting that takes a toll on their self-esteem, and miss out on major parts of their life as they struggle to manage the pain.
Dr. Beverly Miras, PT, DPT wrote about her experience with endometriosis-related pain for the Origin blog: “My periods quickly became painful. This wasn’t the mild cramping I had expected, the pain felt like someone was crushing my internal organs from the inside. Unfortunately, like most menstruating individuals, I thought I just had to cope, so I managed the pain with feelings of dread and a fairly reliable regime of Advil. With each subsequent period, coping became harder as I experienced progressively worsening symptoms that I wouldn’t learn were endometriosis for 15 years.”
There is far too much confusion around endometriosis pain and how it’s treated — and few people realize the critical role pelvic floor physical therapy can play in managing symptoms. We're here to help with this concise guide that draws on some of the latest research.
What is endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition characterized by the growth of tissue that is similar to the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) outside of the uterus. This rogue tissue growth leads to pain and inflammation throughout your body that can become chronic. Over time the formation of adhesions — thick bands of scar tissue that fuse organs together — expounds the pain and contributes to sexual, reproductive, and gastrointestinal dysfunction.
Endometriosis can manifest in various ways, and symptoms depend on the location and extent of lesions. In addition to pain, common symptoms of endometriosis include:


Irregularities in menstrual flow, cycle length, cycle cadence, or spotting between periods


Infertility


Gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea


Why endometriosis occurs in certain people is not fully understood. Some factors that may contribute to the development of endometrial-like lesions include cellular metaplasia, stem cell changes, or possibly retrograde menstruation. The development of endometriosis may also be dependent on estrogen, but like so much about endometriosis, more research is needed.
What kinds of pain can endometriosis cause?
The pain caused by endometriosis depends on the person, but more common pain-related symptoms include:


Pelvic pain associated with and outside of menstrual periods


Pain before, during, and after vaginal penetration of any kind


Pain and difficulty while defecating


Pain and difficulty while urinating


Radiating lower back pain


Headaches


Why does endometriosis cause pain?
Unfortunately, experts don’t yet have definitive answers for why endometriosis causes such intense pain. However, research shows that the condition is linked with inflammation and neuropathy—an issue with the nerves that can lead to pain experienced throughout the body. Endometriosis has also been associated with chronic pain and an increased sensitivity to pain.
“Not all pain from endometriosis is related to the menstrual cycle. Pain can occur at any time. It may present as back pain, leg pain, shoulder pain,” explains Dr. Laurence Orbuch, a California-based OB-GYN who specializes in endometriosis and uses a multidisciplinary approach including minimally invasive surgery for his patients. “What these lesions do, they release different factors—inflammatory mediators and growth factors—that stimulate blood supply and enhance the number of nerve fibers that send pain signals to the brain.”
Dr. Orbuch continues: “When the pain keeps coming back, the central nervous system becomes more sensitized to pain. The pathways for pain are complex and not linear. There’s a lot of cross-talk between nerves. So regardless of where pain starts off in the body, it can register somewhere else.”
Dr. Ashley Rawlins, PT, DPT, a physical therapist and the clinical learning and development lead at Origin, adds that people with deep infiltrating endometriosis (DEI)—when endometriosis is more than 5 millimeters deep in the tissues surrounding the uterus, including the bowels and the bladder—are more likely to have pelvic floor dysfunction as well as dysfunction in the muscles of the hips and thighs.
Up to 90% of people with chronic pelvic pain due to any cause experience muscle pain and dysfunction. Pelvic floor muscle function, in turn, can exacerbate other uncomfortable symptoms like constipation, bladder pain, and sexual pain.
Rawlins explains that symptoms may also be worsened by:


Postural changes that limit mobility and shorten the muscles in the abdomen, hips, and pelvic floor.


Fear-avoidance behaviors that reinforce the cycle of pain.


Changes in the central nervous system that intensify pain.


Less adaptive coping strategies that reinforce pain, like peeing “just in case” or frequently to help with pain during urination and limiting water intake.


Why is endometriosis so hard to diagnose?
People with endometriosis often have debilitating pain. Endometriosis and the pain it causes are treatable—but it takes an average of 7.5 years after the first symptom to get a diagnosis. This means people are often dealing with this pain for a very long time before getting the help they need.
One factor in the severe delays in getting an endometriosis diagnosis is the prevailing issue with people not being believed for their period and other pelvic pain. People are often told that pain is “normal” and just part of the experience of being a person who gets menstrual periods. In fact, as many as 70% of adolescents with painful periods that aren’t improved with medication end up being diagnosed with endometriosis. Folks who were assigned female at birth (AFAB) are also less likely to get pain of any kind treated by medical providers.
Disbelief in pain is an even more significant concern in the Black community, which goes back to the days of chattel slavery and the forced experimentation that laid the foundation for modern gynecology. On average, Black people are about 50% less likely to be diagnosed with endometriosis—and if they do get a diagnosis, they have to wait an extra 2.6 years as compared to white people.
“It’s important to get the word out: If you miss school or call in sick to work several times a year due to period pain, that’s not normal. You may have endometriosis,” says Dr. Orbuch. “You shouldn’t be debilitated by your period. Curled up in a ball on the floor. Needing to sit in a hot bathtub. That’s not ‘normal.’”
How can you get relief from endometriosis pain?
“In those with endometriosis, a multidisciplinary approach is a must,” says Rawlins. This approach can include medication, psychotherapy, dietary changes, surgery, and pelvic floor physical therapy.
Medication
Because endometriosis is a condition that may depend on estrogen levels in the body, hormonal medications are often used to treat symptoms. These hormonal medications include:


Combination estrogen-progestin medications like the birth control pill, ring, or patch.


Progestin-only medications like the minipill or hormonal intrauterine device (IUD).


Very rarely, androgen medications like Danazol or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (which block ovarian function) like leuprolide or elagolix.


While medications can provide relief, according to a committee opinion published in the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s journal, treating symptoms with hormonal therapy alone may delay more effective treatment. As a result, people who want to have biological children will have to wait longer to undergo treatment that improves their chances of getting pregnant.
Minimally invasive surgery
The only way to treat endometriosis itself—rather than simply managing symptoms—is to undergo minimally invasive surgery with an OB-GYN or reproductive endocrinologist who specializes in treating endometriosis. Surgery removes the endometriosis. People with the condition can opt for fertility-sparing endometriosis surgery to increase the likelihood of getting pregnant later on.
“It’s very helpful before surgery to get pelvic floor physical therapy,” says Dr. Orbuch. “With pelvic floor physical therapy, patients tend to start seeing positive results very quickly and begin to feel better.”
Pelvic floor physical therapy
“Pelvic floor physical therapy is a tried-and-true method that effectively improves pelvic floor muscle health and restores bowel, bladder, and sexual function in those with chronic pelvic pain,” Dr. Rawlins explains. “For those with endometriosis, it can be a game-changer.”
“Many endo patients have become hyper-sensitive to pain — you touch them and they flinch. The pelvic floor and back and everything is tense and knotted up,” says Dr. Orbuch. “A pelvic floor physical therapist can help to unwind all of this tension and bring them back to a better place.”
While experts like Dr. Rawlins and Dr. Orbuch have known this to be true for a long time, in 2021, the first randomized controlled trial was published confirming it: The researchers found that pelvic floor physical therapy was a “promising new treatment” for improving:


Pelvic floor relaxation


Superficial dyspareunia (when pain around the vaginal opening is felt during sex)


Chronic pelvic pain in people with deep infiltrating endometriosis


Here’s how pelvic floor physical therapy can help people manage the symptoms of endometriosis:
Manual therapy: Pelvic floor physical therapists can use advanced manual therapy (physical therapy using the hands) as treatment to restore movement and function in the pelvic muscles, joints, and connective tissue.
Education: Physical therapists can also provide education to help with restoring balance in the body, improving bowel and bladder function, and understanding the science of pelvic and chronic pain—as well as how to reduce it. As experts in pelvic health, pelvic floor physical therapists are also equipped to offer guidance on evidence-based endometriosis treatment and information on the biopsychosocial aspects of sexual function and wellness.
Lifestyle changes can also help people with endometriosis feel better. Pelvic floor physical therapists can guide patients through making small, sustainable changes to how they nourish their bodies. Since endometriosis is an inflammatory condition, incorporating as many anti-inflammatory foods as possible—like fatty fish, nuts and seeds, and plant oils—can decrease someone’s sensitivity to inflammation. This is also why teaming up with a dietician is so beneficial.
Exercise: Pelvic floor physical therapy offers a range of movement-based therapies as well as exercises that support moving through daily activities more comfortably and confidently—without fear of experiencing pain or worsening symptoms.
Home programs: Techniques learned in pelvic floor physical therapy need to be practiced outside of sessions to make them second nature. Therapists may advise on stretches, exercises, and self-care strategies to reinforce the goals of physical therapy. Additionally, pelvic wands or vaginal dilators can assist with implementing manual therapy at home.
Referrals: When a patient is first seen by a pelvic floor physical therapist, they’re screened for non-musculoskeletal causes of pelvic pain. Therapists can collaborate with a patient’s care team to rule out concerns about other medical causes of pelvic pain.
If pelvic floor physical therapy does not fully address a patient’s pelvic pain, the therapist will help establish a care team that considers all facets of the issue. For example, they can connect patients with sex counselors as well as psychotherapists. If endometriosis is suspected, they can also bring the right endometriosis experts on board to diagnose and medically treat the condition.
“We will advocate for your health by connecting you with other endometriosis experts—if you don’t already have a team—so that you can get the holistic treatment that is best for your symptoms,” explains Dr. Rawlins. “Pelvic PTs are very endo-savvy, and understand how difficult proper diagnosis and treatment is, so they will refer you to a trusted provider if needed for further assessment.”
Treating endometriosis pain at Origin
Origin’s team of expertly-trained and dedicated pelvic floor physical therapists are here for you if you have any level of pelvic pain — and whether or not you've been given an official endometriosis diagnosis.
For people with symptoms of endometriosis, Origin’s therapists offer education and therapeutic support to help you feel better, as soon as possible. Your therapist will connect you with additional specialists as needed to ensure your health management is holistic and comprehensive.
Therapy with Origin can be covered by most insurance providers. If we don’t take your insurance, we can offer you a superbill for potential reimbursement or referrals to someone who does.
“Endometriosis impacts everyone differently, but you don't have to suffer in silence. You can heal and reduce or even eliminate your symptoms,” says Dr. Rawlins. “But you need are the right tools and healthcare professionals to help guide you.”
Book a visit with Origin today and take your first step on the path to feeling better.
 (2,339 words)
- [The Real Deal with Postpartum Depression & The Pelvic Floor – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-postpartum-depression-the-pelvic-floor.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
Pelvic floor physical therapy has so many benefits, especially during the first 2 years postpartum, when the strain of pregnancy and childbirth can take a massive toll on the pelvic floor and abdominals. But one benefit that isn't on most people's radar is the potential for this care to positively impact maternal mental health. So when we came across a study that found that participating in a physical therapist-led program that combined education with specialized exercises reduced the risk for postpartum depression by an astounding 50%, we were beyond excited.
To get more insight into why postpartum physical therapy can have such a profound effect on mental well-being, we turned to Origin Advisor Dr. Sarah Oreck, MD, MS, one of the few doctors in the U.S. with specialized training in reproductive psychiatry.

Based on your knowledge and experience, do these study results surprise you?
They don’t surprise me at all. We know that movement and exercise on its own can be very helpful for depression and anxiety. Having a physical therapist to guide you as you heal and adjust postpartum, ask you questions, and ultimately help you treat symptoms — of course that's going to be better for your overall well-being.
There’s also the sexual health component that pelvic floor PTs can help with. So many people struggle with getting back into their sex lives because they are having pelvic pain or other symptoms. Sex can be an important component of well-being and having a stable relationship.

Can you speak to the disconnection that postpartum individuals can feel when it comes to their body — and how pelvic floor physical therapy might help?
There is so much disconnection with the body. There are weight changes and hormonal changes. Your body is sometimes unrecognizable compared to what it was — and how it felt — before. You might have pelvic pain or discomfort. A pelvic floor PT can ask you about these very intimate issues and provide education, which our medical system does not.
I really think everyone should be getting pelvic PT after having a baby, whether they had a c-section or a vaginal birth. The same is true for people who have lost pregnancies because their pelvic floor has also changed. You might think, ‘Well I was pregnant for a while and then everything kind of just ended.' But you may still be feeling a lot from that pregnancy. And if you've given birth before, there may already have been a lot of stress on your pelvic floor.

We often hear patients say that they aren’t comfortable talking to their doctor or OBGYN about symptoms like bladder leaks or pain with penetration. Why do you think that’s the case?
There’s so much stigma around talking to medical providers about this kind of stuff. Even if you live in a pocket where people are very sex-positive, there's still this wall. I think it’s likely due to poor training and lack of time. My experience with OB-GYNs is that what they need to learn is too large in scope. And so they aren’t well-equipped in terms of assessing mental health or pelvic floor health. This is no fault on their part. I have been a strong believer that obstetrics needs to be one field and gynecology and surgery another.
I don’t do pelvic exams in my profession, but in medical school, I did an OB-GYN rotation and, with pelvic exams, you're not taught to be aware of the patient's discomfort. You’re trained to say, ‘I'm putting my hand here,’ but it's not so much about, ‘Oh, does this hurt?’ The approach is ‘I have a job to do and I'm going to try to find your ovaries and make sure everything's okay. It's sort of a checklist.
Pelvic floor PT is very different because there's a feedback loop that is central to a pelvic assessment. PTs are asking ‘Is this uncomfortable or painful? What could be happening?’
The pelvic floor is just so different — so much more tied to emotion — than any other body part.
There is so much held in the pelvic floor, emotionally. There's such a high incidence of sexual assault that impacts the pelvis. And then you're giving new life also through this pelvis. When physical therapists are working on this area or talking about this area, the floodgates can open.
In a way, pelvic floor physical therapists are filling this void or lack of knowledge that happens due to flaws in our medical education system. Most providers are not well equipped to help with chronic pelvic pain; they don't have answers. I have seen a lot of patients bounce around between different providers as they try to get help. There are only very few specialized providers who can diagnose vaginismus, vulvodynia, and other pelvic floor disorders. So pelvic floor physical therapists are taking on a lot.
What benefits do you see in having postpartum patients work with both a mental health provider and a pelvic floor PT?
I think the two can complement each other so well. If you have a talk therapist and you're diligently working through your postpartum issues and you still have residual pelvic floor pain, incontinence, or pain with sex, those are things that therapy alone isn't going to resolve. It's only when you have the two together that I've seen the best outcomes.
  (1,111 words)
- [How to Self-Check for Pelvic Organ Prolapse – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/how-to-self-check-for-pelvic-organ-prolapse/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
After all the changes that happened to your body through pregnancy, you’d think nothing could surprise you. But having one of your pelvic organs (as in your uterus, bladder, bowels, or the upper part of your vagina) slip out of place due to weak pelvic floor muscles can come as a shock.
Chances are, your OBGYN never mentioned this common type of pelvic floor dysfunction (it’s present in up to 50% of the female population, though most individuals don’t realize they have it). If your doctor did talk to you about PFD, research shows that the conversation was probably limited to incontinence. So if you’re feeling blindsided by prolapse or vaginal collapse, you’re not alone — and are in the right place.
Getting help for pelvic organ prolapse is so important. If left untreated, the pain and discomfort can significantly impact your life and how you feel in your body. At Origin, we’ve helped hundreds of patients improve pelvic organ prolapse with pelvic floor physical therapy, a safe and effective treatment that can eliminate the need for surgery.
Keep reading to learn more about pelvic organ prolapse, do your own self-assessment at home, and find out if making an appointment with a pelvic floor physical therapist is right for you.
What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?
To help you better understand pelvic organ prolapse or what's sometimes called 'vaginal collapse' or 'pelvic floor collapse, 'let’s quickly review the anatomy and how your pelvic organs interact with your pelvic floor muscles.
The pelvis is the ring of bones at the base of your spine that safely houses your bladder, bowels, vagina, and uterus (aka your pelvic organs). Your pelvic organs are held in place by various ligaments and connective tissues. At the bottom of your pelvis is the pelvic floor, a bowl-shaped group of muscles, nerves, and connective tissues.Your pelvic floor has multiple jobs to do, including supporting your pelvic organs from below (this easy easy-to-understand analogy shows exactly how your pelvic floor helps to keep everything in place.
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the muscles and connective tissues in your pelvic floor — including those surrounding your vagina — become too damaged and weak to support your pelvic organs, causing an organ (or part of an organ) to drop down into the vaginal canal or rectum.
Some of the most common risk factors for developing pelvic organ prolapse include pregnancy, vaginal delivery, and increased body mass index. Connective tissue disorders as well as excessive or chronic pressure or straining (think chronic constipation, lots of heavy lifting, or even the coughing associated with COPD) can also eventually lead to pelvic organ prolapse.
Types of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Prolapse can involve the bladder, urethra, uterus/cervix, rectum, vagina, and/or the small intestines. Prolapses are categorized based on which organ is dropping and where it's going.
Vaginal Prolapse (aka Apical Prolapse and sometimes called 'vaginal collapse') occurs when there's a displacement of organs down from the top of the vagina. This may include the cervix, uterus, the vaginal vault, or even the small intestines (enterocele).
Anterior Prolapse describes the displacement of organs from the front of the vaginal vault and may include the bladder (cystocele), the urethra (urethrocele), or both (cystourethrocele).
Posterior Prolapse involves the displacement of the organs from the backside of the vaginal vault and includes the rectum (rectocele), it's referred to as a posterior prolapse.
Perineal Prolapse happens when support is lost in the perineal body (space between the vaginal and anal openings) causing these tissues to bulge away from the body.
Rectal prolapse is when rectal tissue is displaced down into the anal opening (as opposed to the vaginal vault - see posterior prolapse).
Symptoms of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Depending on which organ(s) are involved and the stage of your prolapse, some of the more common symptoms of vaginal collapse may include:


Heaviness or pressure in the vagina


A feeling like something is falling out of you


You may feel or look different down there (ie you feel or see tissue dropping out)


New difficulties having a bowel movement


Urinary incontinence or even a difficulties fully emptying your bladder


Pain or sensation changes with penetrative intercourse


The 4 Stages of Pelvic Organ Prolapse
No matter which organs are involved, the tissues can drop down a little, or a lot. Determining your “stage”, or how much your prolapse drops down, may help your healthcare provider determine your treatment options, and even help to determine how well you may do with long-term recovery. Commonly the hymen (or the hymenal remnants) are used as the anatomical landmark to measure around. Here are the stages to know:


Stage 0: No prolapse! Everything is where it anatomically should be.


Stage 1: There is some dropping into the vaginal walls, but at its lowest point, the prolapse is more than 1 cm above the level of the hymen.


Stage 2: The prolapse has dropped a bit more and includes tissue that is between 1 cm above or below the hymen.


Stage 3: When the tissues drop further than 1 cm past the hymen, but no more than 2 cm.


Stage 4: This would include any prolapse that drops down more than 2 inches.


How to Check for Pelvic Organ Prolapse at Home
If you haven't yet been diagnosed, it can be helpful to look for yourself to see if you see any tissue bulging, which may indicate you have a pelvic organ prolapse. While it doesn't replace a medical exam, the findings of this self-check can empower you with information about your pelvic floor that you can take back to your GYN.
What you’ll need:


A mirror (or your phone camera)


Personal lubricant (olive oil works, too)


A pen and paper to take notes


When to consult your care provider first:
It's generally considered safe and easy for everyone to check themselves for pelvic organ prolapse, but if any of the following apply to you, check with your health care provider first.


You’re pregnant


You have a vaginal infection or active herpes lesions


You’re earlier than 6 weeks postpartum and haven’t been cleared by your OB for vaginal penetration


You've recently had vaginal or pelvic surgery or radiation


You have any unexplained vaginal or rectal bleeding


During this self-check, you’ll be looking at the mobility of your pelvic tissues or how much they move and drop into the vaginal space. If you’re unable to complete the self-check due to pain or for any other reason, stop and make a note of what you felt. Reach out to a GYN or a pelvic floor PT if you find anything at all that concerns you.
Start your pelvic organ prolapse self-check:
When you’re ready, empty your bladder, wash your hands, and head to a space where you can feel comfortable doing this assessment. For this check, you will ideally be standing — gravity allows for a more realistic understanding of what is going on down there! Place your mirror or the camera on your cell phone on the floor between your legs. If you need a closer look, kneeling tall on your knees over your mirror is the next best position.
Begin by using the mirror to visualize, and get familiar with your anatomy. Open up the labia majora to get a better view of the more internal tissues. Do you notice any tissue that you don’t recognize? Do you see any tissue bulging out of your vaginal opening?
_Yes
_No
Next, keeping the labial tissues open, use your mirror to visualize your vaginal opening. Try to bulge your pelvic floor, or bear down like you’re having a bowel movement. Do you see any bulging of tissue towards the vaginal opening? If you see a couple of bulges, more like a snowman make note of this as well.
_Yes
_No
 
Now, place a little bit of lubricant on a clean (or gloved) finger, then fully insert your finger into your vaginal opening. Insertion of your finger should be pain-free, so if this causes any pain or discomfort, stop your pelvic floor check and instead check in with your doctor or pelvic floor PT so they can help you determine what could be causing your pain. Again, try to bulge your pelvic floor, or bear down like you’re having a bowel movement, as you did earlier. Do you feel any bulging of your vaginal walls, into your finger?
_Yes
_No 
If you answered yes to the above question, try to determine if the tissue bulging out is coming from the back side of the vagina near the rectum, from the front of the vagina near the urethra, or from up above down onto your fingertip.
Make a note of your answers and everything you observed during your self-check. Again, this is not meant to diagnose a pelvic organ prolapse, but it will provide you with information that you can bring to your gynecologist or pelvic floor PT. For a more complete pelvic floor self-check that can reveal other types of dysfunction, check out this guide.
Vaginal Prolapse Treatment
If you think you might have pelvic organ prolapse — or have already been diagnosed and want to start feeling better — see a pelvic floor physical therapist sooner rather than later.
Physical therapy treatment for vaginal or pelvic organ prolapse usually involves assessing and optimizing the performance of your pelvic floor, hip, and abdominal muscles. Your PT will also work on improving your bowel and bladder health to make sure your bathroom habits aren’t provoking your symptoms, and then work with you to learn how to better manage the pressure and strain that is placed on your pelvic organs during your daily activities. We may also suggest that you talk to your gynecologist about getting a pessary (which works a little like a sports bra to support your pelvic organs).
 
Don't hesitate to schedule an evaluation and start working with an Origin pelvic floor PT. We're here for you!


 (1,870 words)
- [The Best Sex Positions to Prevent Vaginal Pain – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-best-sex-positions-to-prevent-vaginal-pain/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
We hate to start a sexy post with a disclaimer, but this is too important to skip: “pushing though” vulvar or vaginal pain in order to have sex is never a good idea. When you do, you fuel a chronic pain feedback loop that causes your brain to generate pain signals even when no injury is present (read more about this tricky feedback loop here). If sex is painful, it’s best to work with a pelvic floor PT — ideally, in conjunction with a sex therapist — who can help you treat chronic pain and reintroduce penetration at the right time.
With that out of the way, we’re excited to share some sex positions that support slow, gentle insertion and (if necessary) shallow thrusting.
The positions below are helpful because they:


Take some pressure off of the vulvar and vaginal tissues during initial insertion


Provide the option for anal stimulation or penetration, if that’s on your menu


Make it easier to reach the clitoris and breasts, which encourages “outercourse” (aka all the sexy things you can do to each other aside from penetration)


Not ready for penetrative sex? There are many other ways to feel good solo or with a partner. Check out an intro to outercourse here. And if sex of any kind is intimidating, we recommend finding pleasure through sensate touch.
If initial penetration hurts, try these 5 positions:
1. Your partner is seated in a chair, you're standing while facing away
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Your legs can straddle one or both of your partner's legs, or you can stand between their legs — choose the position that makes you feel most stable and comfortable.


To give yourself even more control over the depth of penetration, lean forward a bit and rest your arms on a table or the back of a chair.


If vaginal penetration isn't possible for you, this position provides access to anal stimulation instead.


For your partner:


Sit in a chair with good back support or in bed with your back against the wall or a sturdy headboard.


This position helps you control the depth of the penetration you are providing and allows you to use your hands to stimulate your partner's clitoris or breasts.



2. Your partner is seated on the bed or floor, you're straddling their lap while leaning back on your arms

TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Sit straddling your partner with your feet on the bed, then extend one or both arms behind you for support.


You can opt for anal penetration in this position by shifting your hips up.


If insertion is too painful, this is a great position for clitorial stimulation, external vibration, or fingering, if that's comfortable/enjoyable.


For both partners:


This is a fantastic position for kissing and caressing.


Use your free hand(s) to stimulate the clitoris, scrotum, or breasts.


3. Your partner is seated on the edge of the bed or couch, you're straddling their lap with your arms around their shoulders
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For You:


Straddle your partner and use your thighs and hips to help you control the depth, speed, and angle of penetration.


Hold onto your partner's shoulders for support and stability.


If vaginal penetration is too painful, your partner can easily provide manual or vibe clitoral stimulation.


For Your Partner:


Position your arms behind you for support.


Be aware that this position can allow for fairly deep penetration — consider using a device such as OhNut (see "sexy toolkit" info below) on your penis or strap-on to limit penetration depth.


4. Your partner is lying on their back, you're straddling their hips while facing their feet
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Straddle your partner’s hips with your knees facing their feet.


You have a lot of freedom of movement in this position to help control penetration and depth. You can also support your upper body on your partner’s thighs (just above their knees) to help with control during penetration.


Use a pillow between your thighs and lower legs to help control the depth of penetration.


This position allows for targeted clitoral stimulation, either manually or from the shaft of the penis or strap-on.


This is a great position if you enjoy anal stimulation or penetration.


For your partner:


Use pillows to support your back and neck as needed.


While you may not have a lot of freedom of movement, be aware that this position can allow for fairly deep penetration of your partner, so consider using a wearable such as OhNut on your penis or strap-on to limit penetration depth.


5. You're both lying on your sides, facing the same direction with optional leg support
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Your top leg can rest on top of your bottom leg, or on top of one or two pillows, or you can have your partner hold up your leg to open your hips.


This position leaves a hand free for manual stimulation, wherever it feels best.


Note: You may feel extra pressure on the sides of your vagina in this position. If that's a tender area for you, this may be a position to avoid.


For your partner:


Allow your top leg to rest on top of your bottom leg, drape it around your partner (if that's comfortable for both of you), or rotate it open with your knee bent and foot on the floor.


If deeper penetration hurts, try these positions:
1. You're partner is kneeling behind you, you're kneeling while leaning forward onto an ottoman or chair
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Control the depth of penetration by adjusting your pelvis: Arch your back to tip your pelvis, or tuck your pelvis to experience varying penetration depths.


Release tension throughout your body by resting your upper body on a solid surface for support during penetration.


This position allows for targeted clitoral stimulation, either manually or from the shaft of a penis or strap-on.


Boost your pleasure and decrease pain with penetration by using a vibrating toy around the penis/strap-on for extra stimulation at the clitoris.


For your partner:


Kneeling helps to keep the thrusting motion smaller compared to standing, so the depth and the intensity of the thrusting can be smaller, limiting your partner’s potential pain.


Use a pillow under your knees for comfort.


2. You're both lying on your sides, facing the same direction with legs bent or you're facing each other with your legs draped over your partner's hips
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


During penetration, keep your legs together or place a pillow between your knees for support. This helps keep pelvic floor muscles relaxed, keeps your hips in a neutral position if you have knee pain, and allows your buttocks to be a natural buffer for penetration depth.


This position allows easy access for self or partner manual clitoral stimulation.


Try flattening your lower back and tucking your pelvis to limit the depth of penetration.


Prefer lying on your back? You can easily adjust your position to lie on your back with your legs draped over your partner’s hips. Your buttocks and the back of your thighs will continue to act as a buffer to limit the depth of penetration and minimize pain.


For your partner:


Keep your legs together or drape one over your partner if that is comfortable for both.


Try using pillows between your legs for extra comfort


This position allows you to easily caress many of your partner's erogenous zones including neck, breast, nipples, ears, and genitals.


3. Your partner is lying on their back, you're straddling their lap with your hands on the bed
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Face your partner and kneel over them while straddling their pelvis. Use your thighs and hips to move up and down while controlling the depth of penetration in a range that feels good to you.


Add some pillows between your lower legs and thighs to give you some support while thrusting.


Support your arms on the headboard, gently on your partner’s chest, or on the bed for better control during penetration.


For your partner:


This position allows you to easily caress many of your partner's erogenous zones including neck, breast, chest, nipples, ears, stomach and genitals.


Use pillows under your legs for more support to your lower back.


4. Your partner is seated on a chair, you're seated on their lap, leaning forward with hands on their thighs
TIPS for avoiding pain & maximizing pleasure
For you:


Support your upper body by leaning forward to put your palms on their legs to control the depth of penetration.


Find a sitting surface height that allows your feet to rest flat on the ground. This will allow you to use your legs during thrusting to better control depth and comfort during penetration.


For your partner:


Experiment with different sitting surfaces and heights to see which makes penetration the most comfortable for your partner.


Try leaning forward onto your partner's back or put a pillow between you and your partner for extra support.


This position allows you to easily caress many of your partner's erogenous zones including neck, breast, nipples, ears, and genitals.


A Few Things to Add to Your Toolkit
For added fun and better support, consider bringing any (or all) of these items into the bedroom.
Ohnut - This is an extremely comfortable wearable that is worn on the base of the penis — or placed on a strap-on or dildo — to help limit the depth of penetration. Stack as many as you need to allow for comfortable penetration.
External vibrators - Adding an external vibe to sex can be a great way to enhance arousal and bring more blood flow to your tissues.
Lube - Try adding lube to yourself and your partner before penetration to reduce any dryness. Add more, as needed, to keep penetration slippery.
Vaginal dilators - Dilators allow for a slow, solo stretch of the tissues prior to penetrative intercourse.
Bonus: Get More of the Sex You Want
If you struggle to communicate what you do and don't want before, during, and after sex, check out this convo with Dr. Rose Schlaff, an intimacy coach and pelvic floor PT.
  (1,941 words)
- [The Real Deal with Menopause & Sex – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-menopause-sex/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
If you've experienced a few major glitches in your sex life since you stopped menstruating, you're in the right place. “Sexual concerns during and after menopause are extremely common,” says Dr. Lyndsey Harper, an OB-GYN, CEO of sexual-health platform Rosy, and Origin advisor. “But just because they're common, doesn't mean they're normal or something to endure — you can get the help you deserve!”
What does 'help' look like? "Things like pelvic floor physical therapy; clear communication about desires, needs, and wants; appropriate vaginal hormone use; and the right lubes can assist in staying happily sexually active,” says Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, author of Menopause Bootcamp.
As pelvic floor physical therapists who have helped hundreds of women and individuals with vaginal anatomy enjoy pain-free, satisfying sex after menopause, we're here to confidently assure you can enjoy getting intimate again.
Keep reading to find out how menopause can lead to symptoms like painful intercourse and weak orgasm and what you can do to address them.
How menopause impacts your sex life
As you no doubt know, most symptoms of menopause are related to the decline in estrogen that occurs when aging ovaries stop producing this essential hormone. You may have experienced some or all of the following:


Hot flashes


Disrupted sleep (e.g., insomnia, night sweats)


Mood changes


Brain fog


Weight changes


These symptoms may have understandably made you feel less comfortable in your own body and with sex, which can result in poor body image, reduced sexual satisfaction, and (over time) avoidance of sex. This can become a viscous cycle, as research shows that negative body image can also make menopausal symptoms of any kind more severe. This reinforces the deep connection between mind and body — and emphasizes the importance of nurturing a positive body image when treating menopause issues.
Pain with sex & weak orgasm after menopause
A decline in estrogen can impact your sexual functioning even more directly. For one, lack of estrogen is associated with reduced blood flow to pelvic floor tissues. According to the North American Menopause Society, this reduction in blood flow can make the clitoris less sensitive to stimulation, and orgasms less intense or harder to achieve.
Reduction in blood flow can make the clitoris less sensitive to stimulation, and orgasms less intense or harder to achieve.
Decreased estrogen can also lead to thinning of the vulvar and vaginal tissues as well as moisture reduction and a lack of lubrication that leads to inflexibility and sensitivity. The end result: Pain with any kind of vaginal penetration.
In people with vaginas who are 50 years old and above, these issues are the most common causes of painful sex, also referred to as dyspareunia. Dyspareunia can lead to a cycle of sexual dysfunction, where painful sex leads to fear and avoidance of sex — and makes sex more uncomfortable and painful later on through decreased lubrication and involuntary spasms of the vaginal muscles.
Other pelvic floor issues that interfere with sex
Your pelvic floor is critical to healthy sexual function. Some of the menopause symptoms we’ve already mentioned, including pain with sexual penetration, are also signs of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD). Other symptoms of PFD include bladder leakage, urinary frequency or urgency, and pelvic organ prolapse.
The two most significant contributing factors for pelvic floor dysfunction during and after menopause are:


Urogenital atrophy: Experts believe all postmenopausal people experience urogenital atrophy, which is the gradual decline of tissues that makeup and support the genitals and urinary system caused by lower levels of estrogen. People may or may not have noticeable symptoms of urogenital atrophy, like vaginal dryness, irritation, and itchiness.


Decreased resilience in pelvic floor tissue: At the same time, pelvic floor tissue becomes less resilient and less supportive because of low estrogen. This can cause or worsen symptoms like bladder leakage and urinary frequency or urgency.


How to have better sex after menopause
Like Dr. Gilberg-Lenz mentions above, there are many treatment options that can help you address pelvic floor dysfunction as well as other symptoms that put a damper on sex. Below are some of the most effective options to consider.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause
By increasing estrogen levels, hormone therapy can work wonders when it comes to alleviating menopause symptoms. While hormone therapy may slightly increase the risk of uterine and breast cancers, heart attack, stroke, blood clots, and gallbladder disease in those already at increased risk for disease, the benefits often outweigh the potential risks. If you have uncomfortable symptoms, talk to your gynecologist about whether hormone therapy could work for you.
In general, people with uteruses will take combined hormone therapy which consists of estrogen and progestin. Combining these two hormones significantly reduces the increased risk of uterine cancer that comes with taking estrogen alone. (Those who have had a hysterectomy will only take estrogen.)
Estrogen therapy can be systemic, as in for the whole body, or localized, as in targeting urogenital symptoms only. Systemic estrogen therapy may be administered along with progestin via pills or skin patches, as well as topical gels and sprays. Localized estrogen therapy can be administered in small doses through a vaginal ring, tablet, or cream.
Over-the-counter therapies for menopause
For people who have health conditions that make HRT risky or who prefer not to take hormones, there are non-pharmacologic treatments for menopause symptoms that interfere with sex.
The North American Menopause Society makes several recommendations for treating vaginal dryness:


Try over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants (psst, our PT-loved lubes can be found here!)


Don’t use soap or powder on the vulva.


Don’t use fabric softener or anti-cling products with underwear.


Avoid using panty liners or pads.


Continue having sex — regular sexual activity can help by increasing blood flow to the pelvic region and maintaining the size of the vagina.


As for decreased sexual desire, the Society explains that many factors go into sexual desire — from the psychological to the interpersonal to the biological. Talking to your healthcare provider can help you get to the bottom of these issues, whether the cause is psychological, medical, or a combination of the two.
Pelvic floor physical therapy for menopause
Pelvic floor strengthening and rehabilitation have proven to be effective treatments for menopause symptoms that can impact sex and overall well-being.
A 2020 randomized controlled trial aimed to better understand how and why pelvic floor muscle training may be helpful for genitourinary syndrome in postmenopausal people. (Genitourinary syndrome is another term experts use to refer to the cluster of symptoms that are caused by decreased estrogen and impact pelvic floor tissue.) The study found that pelvic floor muscle training has significant positive effects on blood flow as well as pelvic floor muscle relaxation. It also showed that pelvic floor muscle training has a positive effect on pelvic floor muscle tone and strength — as well as skin elasticity in the pelvic floor tissues.
Another randomized controlled trial from 2021 demonstrated that study participants who received pelvic floor muscle training reported decreased sexual dysfunction after three months.
“Those with vaginal pain during sex may need to work on blood flow and flexibility of the pelvic floor tissues,” explains Dr. Ashley Rawlins, PT, DPT, physical therapist and the clinical learning and development lead at Origin, “while those with urinary incontinence may need to focus more on strengthening and coordination.”
Pelvic floor physical therapy for menopause symptoms may include the usage of vaginal dilators, core strengthening, kegels, yoga stretches, breathing exercises, and walking.
Other adjunct therapies that may help promote a better sex life after menopause include sex therapy and psychotherapy. Your OB-GYN, primary healthcare provider, or physical therapist can help connect you with the right people to build out your care team.
Menopause Care at Origin
You can always reach out to your OB-GYN or primary healthcare provider if you’re experiencing uncomfortable sexual or other pelvic-area symptoms before or after menopause. If the two of you decide that pelvic floor physical therapy is the right choice for improving your quality of life, they can refer you to a compassionate provider like Origin. If you already know you’re interested, go ahead and book your first appointment. We take insurance and can provide you with a Superbill if we don’t take yours.
Origin’s team of pelvic floor physical therapists is here to support the whole you. They’re specially equipped with the clinical know-how to help you manage symptoms of menopause — and reduce painful or unsatisfying sex.
If the issue goes beyond the physical, which it often does, our physical therapists will work with you to find out what’s happening. This may include providing emotional support, ruling out possible conditions, and referring you to other specialists when additional treatment is needed.
Each plan of care is tailored to meet your needs and preferences. Importantly, we offer in-person as well as online treatment. And your physical therapist will incorporate all of the tools in their toolkit, from gentle movement to strengthening exercises to guidance for supportive devices like pessaries or dilators. Whatever will help you feel the best, right now, in your body. 
In the meantime, for a refreshingly positive take on menopause, check out this post. (1,738 words)
- [The Real Deal with Constipation & The Pelvic Floor – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-constipation-the-pelvic-floor/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
Everybody poops or, well, everybody should poop. Unfortunately, constipation is a problem that plagues too many of us, too much of the time. According to John Hopkins Medicine, every year in the U.S., about 4 million people report feeling chronically backed up, making constipation the most common gastrointestinal complaint.
Intermittent pooping troubles triggered by a change in your diet or daily routine are usually no big deal, but constipation that doesn't go away — or keeps coming back — is a more serious issue. Chronic constipation is typically due to two issues: slow movement in your gut and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Left untreated, chronic constipation can lead to more than just inconvenience and discomfort — it can contribute to even more complicated symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, including:


Urinary incontinence


Painful sex


Pelvic organ prolapse


Rectal or anal pain


The good news is that pelvic floor physical therapy can be a huge gut-saver. Using highly-effective treatment tools like pelvic floor biofeedback, a PT can help you poop easily, comfortably, and regularly again. Read on to learn more.
What does “normal pooping” look like?
When it comes down to it, poops are like snowflakes — no two are exactly alike. That's because your bowel health is a product of a myriad of factors including your diet, activity levels, health history, genetics, and even stress levels. Ideally, your bowel function will still fall within the normal range.
What's normal? If the following statements are true for you, most of the time, your bowel function likely just fine:


You have bowel movements somewhere between 3x/day, to 3x/week.


When you have a bowel movement, it's painless and easy — no straining or major pushing required.


Your poops are mostly brown and fall somewhere between type 3 and 4 on the Bristol Stool Chart.


What are the symptoms of constipation?
Even if you know your bowel function is not normal, how do you know if you’re officially constipated? As it turns out, 29% of people are constipated without even realizing it. Luckily, there's a “cheat sheet” of sorts — aka the Rome IV criteria — which healthcare providers often use to help determine if you are.
Over the past 6 months, if two or more of the following symptoms have persisted for at least three months, it's likely that a doctor will diagnose you with functional constipation, or constipation that is not caused by illness:


At least 25% of the time, you have to strain when you poop.


At least 25% of the time, your poop is lumpy or hard (check out #1 and 2 on the Bristol Stool Chart above).


At least 25% of the time, it doesn’t feel like you've emptied your bowels – this is known as a sensation of incomplete evacuation.


At least 25% of the time, it feels like there is something blocking your ability to poop, aka a sensation of anorectal obstruction/blockage.


At least 25% of the time, you require some sort of manual assistance to help you poop — using your fingers to splint your pelvic floor or pushing near your anus to help you empty.


Each week, you have fewer than 3 bowel movements.


Loose stools are a rare occurrence unless you use a laxative.


Your poops don’t meet the criteria for irritable bowel syndrome.


Other than having difficulties getting stool out on a regular basis, it’s also common to experience the following symptoms when you have constipation:


Painful bowel movements


Abdominal pain or cramping


Abdominal bloating or nausea


How do pelvic floor muscles affect constipation?
While strong and healthy pelvic floor muscles are useful in helping to “keep things in” — bladder leaks, your organs, and accidental flatulence slips for example — it is just as important that your pelvic floor muscles are able to release and lengthen, at the right time and place, to facilitate things like sex, having a baby vaginally, and of course to poop.
Under normal circumstances, your pelvic floor muscles (along with your anal sphincter) act as the last line of defense and hold a small amount of tension to prevent stool or gas leakage as your rectum fills with stool, storing it until it is an appropriate time to use the bathroom. When you are ready to poop, you should be able to relax and open your pelvic floor muscles to easily and painlessly empty your bowels. A small amount of gentle pushing may help to facilitate this process, but you should never have to struggle and strain to poop.
When pelvic floor muscles become tight and overactive they can contribute to constipation in 3 ways:
1. Anal or rectal pain can make pooping scary.
Anal and rectal pain can be caused by a variety of issues including pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic muscle trigger points, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. If getting the poop out is painful, holding it may feel like the better and safer option. The problem is, holding it can further aggravate overactive pelvic floor muscles. And if you do it often enough, the natural sensation and pressure that helps you poop can go away (this is known as peristaltic dampening), making bowel movements even harder to come by.
2. A tight pelvic floor can make it hard to squeeze out poop.
When pelvic floor muscles are overactive, they can lose flexibility and shorten, making it difficult to move stool out of a smaller anal opening. Plus, the longer your stool sits in your rectum, the harder and more difficult it is to pass. You see, your entire colon, including your rectum, absorbs water from your stool to keep it for your body. The longer it hangs out, the lower your Bristol Stool Chart number becomes. You will not only have to push harder to move dry, lumpy stool from your body, but it could be painful — which as previously mentioned, only adds to the problem.
3. Dyssynergia can stop you from relaxing at the right time.
Gently pushing while you poop can help to lengthen and open the pelvic floor and anus to facilitate a bowel movement. However, pelvic floor dysfunction can also show up as coordination loss. When you poop, this means you may contract your pelvic floor muscles and close your anus while you push, instead of relaxing your muscles and opening your anus (which allows the poop to come out). What's really tricky is that it can actually feel like you're relaxing when you're not. This is known as pelvic floor dyssynergia. Dyssynergic defecation is known to be the source of constipation in up to 50% of those who have chronic constipation.
Cure Chronic Constipation with Pelvic Floor PT
The good news is, pelvic floor physical therapy is highly effective in tackling constipation related to pelvic floor dysfunction. The following are a few of the reliable, evidence-based treatment strategies that pelvic floor physical therapists at Origin use to help those with constipation:


Adjustments in your diet: Dialing in your diet can be a huge source of improvement for your constipation. For example, pelvic physical therapy will help you focus on eliminating bowel irritants, increasing fiber intake, and drinking more water each day.


Manual therapy: For tight, overactive pelvic floor muscles, manual therapy techniques can help improve flexibility, minimize trigger points, and relieve pelvic floor muscle pain. Abdominal massage can also be a helpful tool in relieving discomfort associated with constipation and has even been shown to ease constipation by stimulating intestinal motility, which slows down bowel function in those with slow-transit related constipation. The good news is, your physical therapist will show you how to do these things on your own.


Biofeedback: Biofeedback has consistently been found to be a helpful therapy tool for those impacted by constipation. Pelvic floor biofeedback describes a variety of techniques that physical therapists can use to help teach you what your pelvic floor muscles are doing during bowel movements. Balloon-assisted biofeedback or electronic instrument-based biofeedback (using internal or external sensors) can help you retrain your muscles to coordinate more optimally for bowel function, as shown in this study.


Behavioral strategies: As they work on restoring your pelvic floor muscle health, there are some trusted behavioral strategies that physical therapists will often teach their patients, such as splinting, using a toilet stool, and making your belly big and exhaling when you push (instead of holding your breath).


Exercise: Being inactive may contribute to constipation, but constipation can make you feel like skipping exercise — so it’s a vicious cycle. Research shows that exercises like yoga may help to improve your gastrointestinal function. A physical therapist can help you find a safe exercise routine that works for you.


When you have trouble pooping, particularly if things aren’t getting back on track with your usual DIY strategies, it's always best to check in with your healthcare provider. They will be able to rule out any medical causes of your constipation. After other health conditions are crossed off the list, pelvic floor dysfunction is most likely to blame.
If your pelvic floor is making it hard to poop, don't hesitate to schedule an evaluation with one of our highly trained pelvic floor physical therapists. We'll have you pooping smoothly again in no time. (1,748 words)
- [The Real Deal with Vaginismus, Vulvodynia, Dyspareunia – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-vaginismus/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
Chances are, a gynecologist has never asked if you’re experiencing vaginal pain, despite the fact that it’s surprisingly common. Research shows that 1 out of 5 women have painful sex. And as many as 1 in 4 experience some kind of chronic pelvic pain. If you’re lucky enough to have a doctor who brings up vaginal pain, they may use confusing terminology that they don’t have time to explain during a packed, 15-minute visit.
As a woman or individual with vaginal anatomy, knowing the vocabulary of vaginal pain will help you communicate clearly and confidently with health care providers. Check out the various names for vaginal pain below, plus advice on when to see a pelvic floor physical therapist.
The Vocabulary of Vaginal Pain
Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea basically describes menstrual cramps. Dysmenorrhea can be debilitating and can occur on its own, or it can occur as a result of another condition, such as endometriosis.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of your uterus (your endometrium), grows outside of your uterus. A lot of complicated symptoms can occur with endometriosis, including pelvic and low back pain, digestive problems, pain with bowel movements, and even pain with intercourse.
Dyspareunia
Dyspareunia is pain with sex. You may have pain before, during, or after sex, and pain can be felt anywhere in the vagina or pelvic/abdominal areas.
Vaginismus
Vaginismus used to have a very specific definition: The involuntary contraction of the outer third of the pelvic floor muscles in response to attempted vaginal penetration (by a penis, tampon, toy, etc). Now it’s being used more generally to describe pain and anxiety with penetration. Both vaginismus and dyspareunia are considered genito-pelvic pain and penetration disorders.
Vulvodynia
The suffix ‘dynia’ means ‘pain,’ and vulvodynia refers to pain that comes from tissues of the vulva. Quick anatomy review: The vulva is the external female anatomy that includes the outer and inner labias, the vaginal entrance (introitus), the tissue surrounding the vaginal entrance (vestibule), plus the urethral opening and the clitoris.
If pain is coming from any of these tissues (whether the pain is provoked by touch or always there), it may be vulvodynia. It’s also common to experience pain with intercourse and even experience bladder symptoms such as urinary urgency and frequency.
Vulvodynia can be further classified into vestibulodynia and clitorodynia, which more specifically describe where the pain is coming from.
Pudendal Neuralgia
The pudendal nerve is the main nerve that provides sensation and function to the pelvic floor muscles, including the structures of the vulva, pelvic floor muscles, and anus. With pudendal neuralgia, you may experience “nervey” symptoms such as burning, discomfort, or itching in any of the areas that the nerve provides sensation.
If you have pudendal neuralgia, you may also have pain with sex and bowel or bladder dysfunction. Simple things like sitting can irritate the nerve even further, making symptoms worse.
When to See a Pelvic Floor PT
There are a wide range of reasons why you might have pain in and around your vagina. It could be due to a medical condition like the ones listed here, or it may be its own thing. If you have pelvic pain that’s widespread and difficult to localize, or is associated with a fever, blood in your urine, unusual discharge, a foul smell, or a sudden change in your bowel or bladder function, check in with your physician immediately. They can ensure that you don’t have any immediate health concerns that are causing your pain.
If there isn’t a medical cause to explain your pain, reach out directly to a pelvic floor physical therapist. No matter what the cause, they can probably help. Musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction are seen in up to 90% of those with pelvic pain.
PT-Loved Products To Help Ease Pain With Sex
Living with pain during intimacy can be frustrating and isolating, but there are helpful tools designed specifically to address this issue. These products can be used as part of your overall treatment plan and may provide significant relief:
Vaginal Dilators: Trainers (aka dilators) can help you break the vaginismus pain cycle or maintain a neovagina. Consult with your pelvic floor PT to find out the best size/type dilator to start with and how to progress slowly to prevent setbacks.
Ohnut: This soft, wearable device acts as a buffer during penetrative sex, allowing you to customize penetration depth. It's an excellent solution for deep penetration pain related to endometriosis, pelvic floor tension, or other conditions where depth control makes a difference.
Remember that these products work best as part of a comprehensive approach to addressing painful sex. Using them in conjunction with guidance from your pelvic physical therapist can help maximize their effectiveness and your comfort.
The bottom line: It’s important not to ignore and endure pelvic pain! Chronic pain is tricky and will stick around — and likely get worse — if not addressed. A pelvic floor physical therapist will work with you to investigate causes and contributing factors, and build a treatment plan that helps you start feeling better, as fast as possible.
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- [Ever-Evolving Woman | Kimberly Jolasun – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/ever-evolving-woman-kimberly-jolasun/index.html): 
At Hazel, we embrace everything that comes with being a woman. And by everything, we mean everything – from periods and perimenopause to leaks and low sex drive. Through this series, we share the stories of inspiring tastemakers and rule breakers living their truth at every age. We don't shy away from taboos. We eyeroll at the word perfect – it's all about celebrating the perfectly imperfect.

Kimberly Jolasun is resilient, wise, and has a deep commitment to supporting mothers through their journeys.

Building Villie: A Vision Born from Experience
When Kimberly Jolasun set out to create Villie, she wasn’t just building a platform—she was creating a lifeline for mothers navigating the often turbulent early stages of parenthood. Having experienced postpartum depression herself, Kimberly knew firsthand the critical need for a strong support system. Villie was designed to be that system, offering guidance, community, and resources to mothers who, like Kimberly, might feel overwhelmed by the challenges of new motherhood.
The Role of Family in Postpartum Recovery
Kimberly’s personal journey with postpartum depression highlighted the essential role that family can play in a mother’s recovery. She recalls how her mother-in-law’s presence during her toughest moments was instrumental in her healing process. “Her involvement and understanding were pivotal,” Kimberly shares. “A visit from her would brighten even the darkest days. My experience underscores the importance of having a strong support system and how cultural understanding can significantly impact recovery from postpartum depression.”
From Culture to Community: Kimberly’s Vision for Villie
Kimberly’s Ghanaian roots play a critical role in shaping her vision for Villie. In West African culture, family and community are central to a mother’s well-being. Villie brings that cultural value into the digital age by creating a space where friends and family can rally around new mothers, offering practical and emotional support. “Villie is a place where all moms, regardless of their background, can feel connected and celebrated," says Kimberly. "We’ve built a platform that allows for cultural exchange and the celebration of traditions, while addressing the universal need for support."
The Ever-Evolving Woman: Kimberly’s Thoughts on Motherhood and Growth
For Kimberly, motherhood and entrepreneurship have been deeply intertwined journeys of personal evolution. “Motherhood changes you in profound ways,” she explains. “I’ve learned to adapt, to be more patient, and to embrace the uncertainty that comes with both raising children and building a company. To me, 'ever-evolving' means recognizing that change is a constant, but so is our ability to grow and thrive.”
Self-Care and Balancing It All
As a mother and founder, Kimberly’s life is a juggling act, but she makes self-care a priority to maintain balance. “I’ve learned that I need to carve out moments for myself, whether it’s taking a quiet walk or spending time with my kids without any distractions,” Kimberly says. “I also prioritize my mental health, making sure to talk to my therapist regularly and lean on my support network when things get overwhelming. It’s all about balance and allowing myself to rest when needed.”
A Message to Other Moms
Kimberly’s advice to mothers going through similar struggles is simple but powerful: “Don’t be afraid to ask for help. You’re not supposed to do this alone, and you shouldn’t have to. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and give yourself the grace to accept that you’re doing your best. Every stage of motherhood comes with its own set of challenges, but having a village behind you makes all the difference.” 
Fill in The Blank: Sex gets __________ as you get older because ___________ .
Sex gets less complicated as you get older because you’ll understand yourself more deeply than you ever imagined.
We All Need a Village
Kimberly Jolasun’s story is one of resilience, cultural wisdom, and a deep commitment to supporting mothers through their unique journeys. As the founder of Villie, she continues to empower parents by providing them with the tools and community they need to thrive. Through her work, Kimberly is not only changing the conversation around motherhood but also creating a legacy that will support generations to come. (819 words)
- [agents-md.html](/content/agents-md.html) (474 words)
- [The Hazel Edit: Women's Health Month](/content/blogs/musings/the-hazel-edit-womens-health-month/index.html): 
May is Women’s Health Month, something we take super seriously at Hazel. And as you know, we embrace everything that comes with being a woman – from periods and painful sex to perimenopause and pelvic floor dysfunction. For this month’s Hazel Edit, we rounded up some of the most innovative products and services that make living your best life a whole lot easier. 

For when your period is like clockwork (or not)...
Hummingway Cycle Soother
Adhere these holistic patches to combat painful menstrual/ovulation cramps and bloating during your period. For best results, they recommend wearing them for 24 hours at a time, and you can totally sweat, shower, and sleep with them on. 
Cora Menstrual Disc
This super-easy to insert/remove silicone disc holds the equivalent of 5-7 tampons, can be re-used for up to 10 years (yay for the environment), and allows for mess-free period sex. Oh, and once it’s in, you’ll forget it’s even there. 
For when you’re TTC or bringing home baby…
Modern Fertility Hormone Test
This comprehensive at-home test (the same one offered in clinics for a fraction of the price, as they are often not covered by insurance) checks a panel of 7 hormones to determine your ovarian reserve, thyroid levels, menopause timeline, and potential egg freezing or IVF outcomes, as well as flags PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
Frida Postpartum Recovery Essentials Kit
When shit gets real, Frida Mom has your back (well, actually your perineal area). Their brilliantly-designed products address all the issues you’ll face after a vaginal birth – Upside-Down Peri Bottle, Disposable Postpartum Underwear, Instant Ice Maxi Pads, Witch Hazel Pad Liners, and With Hazel Healing Foam. Your vag will thank you. 
Bodily C-Kit
A selection of items that helps you heal after a C-section – including a high-rise panty that protects the incision and a belly band that comfortably holds you in – is a gift to yourself when it comes to recovery.
Origin
Giving birth (vaginally or via C-section) is downright brutal on your body. And if you don’t take care of any damage done, it can lead to incontinence, painful sex, separated abs, and pelvic organ prolapse. Origin exists to get ahead and prevent this from happening with physical therapy for the pelvic floor and more – either virtually or at one of their locations. 
Peanut
It takes a village, and you can find yours on this app that connects women to a community, based on their current life stage (fertility, pregnancy, motherhood, menopause). Trust, it’s the network you never knew you needed but will soon wonder what you did without it. 
For when you’re anywhere near or in the thick of menopause…
Mina Hormone Testing Kit
This at-home test measures your AMH (Anti-Mullerian Hormone) levels (a key indicator to your ovarian reserve) to determine your menopause timing or the phase you’re currently in. All it takes is a simple finger prick (they walk you through it), and they send you personalized results on what you can expect.
Modern Age
Just because you’re getting older doesn’t mean you have to look or feel older. Modern Age exists to empower you to age well through guidance, treatments, products, and prescriptions across skin, hair, bone and hormone health. Book an in-person or virtual consultation (in NYC only currently), and you’ll work together on a custom plan. 
Better Not Younger Hair Thickener
This double award-winning spray is like magic. Skin-nurturing safe ingredients nourish and support the scalp and follicles while giving a boost at the root that makes hair instantly look so much thicker and fuller. 
Me. No. Pause.
A natural, hormone-free supplement that truly works in combating symptoms resulting from changing hormones during menopause – hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, memory, and mood. Don’t just take our word for it: Read the rave reviews. 
Joylux vFit Gold
If you’re plagued by vaginal dryness and painful sex, this device is a worthy investment. UV-free red light stimulates tissue, sonic vibrations stimulate muscles, and gentle heat encourages blood flow (causing natural lubrication). It’s like a perfect storm to end down-there pain.
Hazel High & Dry Brief
We think it’s super rude of bladder leaks to interrupt a good laugh. So we made a sleek (but uber-strong), disposable brief that looks and feels like real underwear, complete with a control top. So you can giggle more and stress less.
Mojo Hot Flash Serum
As if being drenched in sweat isn’t brutal enough, hot flashes can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it red and super uncomfortable. This smart serum instantly calms skin and reduces redness, especially when used on the reg.  (908 words)
- [The Real Deal With The Pelvic Floor – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-the-pelvic-floor/index.html): We all been warned about the highs and lows of postpartum. And as we age, we expect that eventually our hair will turn gray. That’s just part of life.
But what we weren’t prepared for was some out-of-the-blue back pain, painful sex, and leaking every time we sneezed. But don’t book three different doctor’s appointments and become convinced you’re falling apart quite yet!
All of those seemingly different issues are likely stemming from one thing: a dysfunctional pelvic floor. The good news is, it can often be remedied with the right guidance and exercises.
We will forever be indebted to Evelyn Hecht, PT, a NYC-based Master Clinician of Pelvic Physical Therapy, who enlightened us on why these symptoms present physiologically and what you can do to reverse them. 
The Pelvic What?!
When you laugh so hard (or cough or sneeze) and clench your muscles to prevent peeing your pants, that’s the pelvic floor you’re trying to contract/control.
So, What Even Is It?
The pelvic floor is a diamond-shape (how apropos) group of muscles that sits at the base of your pelvis where the bladder, rectum, and uterus come together – like a sling supporting those organs!
Why Does It Become An Issue?
Pregnancy, childbirth, excessive straining during bowel movements, and high levels of stress can all contribute to a dysfunctional pelvic floor, which can, in turn, cause all sorts of issues throughout the body (think incontinence, constipation, painful sex, and lower back pain to start).
It’s All Connected
The pelvic floor works directly with your deepest abdominal and lower spine muscles to stabilize your core – it’s the first thing to contract when you pick something up or go from sitting to standing. So if you suffer from chronic lower back pain, there’s a 95% chance the cause is pelvic floor dysfunction. 
It’s In Tune With Your Emotions
The pelvic floor is a mirror of your mindset and how you’re feeling emotionally. If you’re stressed and anxious, the pelvic floor is high and tense, which can cause constipation, painful sex, GI dysfunction, and bladder pain. 
You Can Count On It For Sexual Healing
A healthy pelvic floor can make for far more enjoyable sex. How? When those muscles are relaxed, it allows blood to flow to the genitals and helps with lubrication, making it easier to achieve a stronger orgasm.
It Can Be A Mind F*^&
While pelvic floor pain is often felt in the vaginal area, the actual cause can be blamed on your brain. If you’re under a lot of stress, your brain feels like it’s under threat, so it sends the pelvic floor pain signals to guard it even more. Crazy stuff.
Take Back Control
Due to the above, simple breathing techniques and quieting mind exercises can help move and relax the pelvic floor, which lowers the incoming danger signals, and eventually, decreases pain. It’s all about calming the nervous system. How’s that for the power of positive thinking? 
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- [Ever-Evolving Women | Our Moms – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/ever-evolving-women-our-moms/index.html): At Hazel, we embrace everything that comes with being a woman. And by everything, we mean everything – from periods and perimenopause to leaks and low sex drive. Through this series, we share stories of inspiring tastemakers and rule breakers living their truth at every age. We don’t shy away from taboos. We eyeroll at the word perfect – it’s all about celebrating the perfectly imperfect. In this Mother’s Day Edition, we are shining a light on our own amazing moms, who couldn’t be more deserving. 

Aubrey, Co-Founder & Chief Design Officer
On Her Mom’s Best Quality…
Her generosity with her community. She’ll drop everything when someone is sick to make a huge batch of lasagna and rally her community to make sure that person is taken care of. 
She taught me to “go be their friend,” to the new kid at school, the latest hire, or a neighbor that sticks to herself.
Aubrey's Mom, Darlene
Ever-Evolving” Means…
Mom, wife, friend, grandmother (Binda), caretaker. With each stage, a different hat. With each hat, a different set of tasks. They’re all me. Improved. Evolving.
 
What TRULY Gets Better With Age
LIFE! LOVE! RELATIONSHIPS! I’ve learned to love more and worry less. Now is the time to be proud. Enjoy the rewards of your efforts.
 
The Most Rewarding Thing About Being A Mom
When my children show compassion for others. Compassion is so important.
 
The Hardest Thing About Being A Mom
When any of my three children are hurting. Whether it be physical or emotional, when they hurt, I hurt. 
Jackie, Director of Customer Experience
On Her Mom’s Best Quality…
Her sense of community. My mom has several friends she’s known since middle school and many more since college. No matter how she has changed and evolved over the years, she’s kept her long-standing community intact and has continued to expand it too. Relationships take work, and my mom has always been not only willing to put in the work, but she also makes it seem easy.
Jackie's Mom, Kathy
“Ever-Evolving” Means…
Nothing stays the same. Even things that stay the same are experienced differently as we get older. The trick is to embrace the change and not be depressed by it. I always prided myself in cooking well for my kids, and now I think they might be better chefs than I ever was.
 
What TRULY Gets Better With Age
Wine? No more period cramps? Older kids = more to be proud of (with a lot less work on my part). And more free time. I grew up in New York, and now my two adult daughters live there. I love that I have the time to experience New York through their eyes.
 
The Most Rewarding Thing About Being A Mom
Watching your kids grow into fully formed adults and craft lives of their own.
 
The Hardest Thing About Being A Mom
Letting go and allowing your kids to experience life on their own, including making their own mistakes. Watching them be sad or hurt. Remembering that kids get to create their own lives, not necessarily the one I had or the one I expected for them. Their lives are their own to lead. I just try to be supportive.
 

Yvonne, VP of Supply Chain & Operations

On Her Mom’s Best Quality…
Her resilience is truly remarkable. Her resilience to make sure that we were loved, protected, given the best of what they could offer us, and making sure that we felt that we can do whatever we want and take over the world.
Yvonne's Mom, Shirley
“Ever-Evolving” Means…
As with life, nothing stays the same. Everything is constantly changing, so to be ever-evolving means that you go with the flow and always learn to adapt and change along the way. How to be a mom changes as your child grows. As a baby, you do everything for them, then they get older and you get to guide them, and then they become an adult and you get to become their friend. Motherhood is an amazing journey.
 
What TRULY Gets Better With Age
Happiness and the ability to feel happy and bliss is even more rewarding and fulfilling.
 
The Most Rewarding Thing About Being A Mom
Being able to love unconditionally and truly understanding what it means to sacrifice all for your child in each and every way. I chose to be a stay-at-home mom and gave up “working.” At the time, I believed it to be a sacrifice, but only to later realize that it was rewarding in the sense that I was able to watch and witness my children grow, learn, laugh, and cry, and I saw all of that every single day of their childhood. That “sacrifice” was what bonded us and made us so close to each other.
 
The Hardest Thing About Being A Mom
Patience, it’s a test of patience! It’s so easy to watch your child fall and want to grab them and pick them up immediately, but it takes patience to sit back and watch them get back up themselves, and I mean this literally and metaphorically. That is the only way that they will learn and be able to carve their own path forward.

Shawna, VP of Growth
On Her Mom’s Best Quality…
My mom is so inquisitive. She’s always asking questions, trying new things, exploring, and her curiosity about life has only grown as she’s gotten older! We were on a mother-daughter trip to Morocco last year, and my mom proved to be such an adventurer – riding a camel and a mule and hiking the Atlas Mountains on the same day!
Shawna's Mom, Lois
“Ever-Evolving” Means…
Ever- evolving means that things continue to get better as the years and decades continue to roll along. I was able to be successful in my career while being a supportive wife and mom. I was a highly qualified teacher while my husband and daughter were able to reach high levels in their careers. This evolution came about by us working together as one unit.
 
What TRULY Gets Better With Age
My self-confidence gets better with age. Each decade I become less and less concerned about what other people will think. I would try things that some women would think were crazy, like drive 10 hours alone to visit family and friends. I’ve flown in from Rome, taken a shower, and dashed off to work – and this was at age 66. As long as I’m mobile, I will continue to try new things.
 
The Most Rewarding Thing About Being A Mom
The most rewarding thing about being a mom is seeing your child become successful. You know that they will be able to exist in this world on their own feet.
 
The Hardest Thing About Being A Mom
The most difficult thing about being a mom is juggling spouse, child, household, and a full- time job. They all need some tender loving care. (1,299 words)
- [The Hazel Edit: Mother's Day Edition](/content/blogs/musings/the-hazel-edit-mothers-day-edition/index.html): Motherhood is many things – challenging, rewarding, oftentimes exhausting – but always worth it. The only gift she really wants on Mother’s Day is to know how much you love and appreciate her, but we’re pretty sure she’d be delighted and touched to receive any of the below gifts as an added bonus. Or, you know, just treat yourself – you deserve it!
Lingua Franca Bouquet
Simple fact: Not everyone has a green thumb. But trying to pass off fake flowers as the real deal is just bad form. A brilliant alternative? Lingua Franca’s paper varieties that are true works of art and make a statement all their own. Not to mention they pretty much last forever. 
Brumate Winesulator & Tumblers
This innovative chiller keeps an entire bottle of wine ice cold for 24 hours, while the matching tumblers keep it at the same temp for every last sip (our current fave: Avaline). Oh, and, don’t worry, even though it’s made of stainless steel, there’s no metallic taste whatsoever. Cheers to that.
Doen Bedding/Table Linens
The brand that made farmgirl-chic a thing, Doen has now gone beyond their covetable dresses and tops with the prettiest floral bedding (and tablecloths and napkins) that are a refreshing change from an all-white bed. 
Hill House Home PJ’s
Speaking of swoon-worthy floral prints, Hill House Home’s new line of sleepwear features artist and textile designer Leila Dubus’ beautiful creations on uber-flattering, super comfy styles meant for lounging. 
WithCo Mixers
These small-batch mixers (made with only fresh ingredients) turn out perfect cocktails every single time. Simply mix equal parts WithCo and the suggested spirit (or club soda for a nonalcoholic option), and that. is. all. From the classics (Bloody Mary, Margarita) to creative concoctions (Bouquet, Honey Sour), every single one is delightful. 
Painted Rock Family
A DIY project that’s overflowing with charm – but easy to execute – is the total jackpot. You can thank 25-year Martha Stewart veteran and crafter extraordinaire, Darcy Miller, for this brilliant gift idea.
Custom Boat & Tote
A classic Boat & Tote donning an embroidered bespoke family crest is something she will treasure forever (and ever).  (499 words)
- [The Real Deal with Menopause & Sleep Struggles – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-menopause-sleep-struggles/index.html): As we enter perimenopause and menopause, the majority of women (61% if we’re getting technical) experience sleep issues like insomnia, anxiety, and night sweats. And as if that’s not rough enough, lack of sleep has a domino effect, causing things like increased irritability, depression, and brain fog. 
Nobody needs that. So we reached out to our friends at Proper, a brand dedicated to sleep wellness through supplements and coaching, for some guidance. Their resident sleep expert, Dr. Allison Siebern, has been working in clinical sleep medicine for 15+ years, and we chatted with her about how to nip these nighttime issues in the bud.
Read on for some brilliant tips that will have you getting more zzzs. 
The Root Cause
It’s those fluctuations in hormones (estrogen, progesterone, serotonin, and melatonin) that are responsible for messing with your sleep. Here’s the download:


Prior to menopause, estrogen helps decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, improves sleep quality, and increases total sleep time, on top of regulating body temperature at night, so when levels begin changing, all of those things are affected.


Progesterone is related to the drive for breath, so declining levels increase the chances of fragmented sleep and risk for development of obstructive sleep apnea. (See your doctor if you think this is happening to you.)


Serotonin is the “happy hormone” that helps stabilize mood and promotes general feelings of well-being, so when levels drop, it can cause anxiety and depression, both of which disrupt sleep.


Melatonin is a natural hormone that our bodies produce to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. As women age, levels of melatonin decrease, which affects the circadian rhythm. 


Gonna Make You Sweat
About 85% of menopausal women experience night sweats (the sleeptime version of hot flashes). But there are ways to minimize the deeply unpleasant experience of waking up drenched.


They can be triggered by caffeine, alcohol, and spicy food (they all boost your internal temp), so it’s worth seeing if there’s a correlation for you there, as that’s an easy fix. 


Turn the thermostat down to somewhere between 60-67 degrees. We suggest starting at 65 and tweaking accordingly within that window. 


If you take a bath or shower before bed, make sure it’s not a hot one – cool to lukewarm will prevent your body temp from being too high before bed.


The fabric of your pajamas and bedding can be serious heat trappers, especially high thread count cotton. Opt for breathable, sweat-wicking fabrics like hemp, linen, and lyocell/bamboo.



Hazel’s Picks:

Brooklyn Bedding Cooling Pillow
Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheet Set
Bearaby Weighted Blanket
No Wakey Wakey
If you have no problem falling asleep but struggle to stay asleep, there are a few things that can really help.


Avoid caffeine and alcohol. The former has an obvious waking effect, while the latter helps you get to sleep but interrupts patterns as your body processes it during the night. 


Get in a bedtime routine that incorporates a relaxing activity like a (not too hot) bath, meditation, visual imagery, or progressive muscle relaxation. 


If you do wake up, listen to restful audio content to help you get back to sleep. Calm and Headspace have great options that act like lullabies for grownups. Just make sure your phone is in night mode!


 Get A (Restless) Leg Up

There’s an increased prevalence of Restless Leg Syndrome in women going through menopause. Best described as ‘a creepy-crawly sensation with an irresistible urge to move the legs,’ it makes it almost impossible to sleep when it’s happening. Thankfully, there are medications out there that help immensely, so see your doctor if you’re experiencing this. 
Behind Closed Doors
The only things that should happen in the bedroom are sleep and sex. No TV, no just hanging out, no screens (blue light is the enemy).
Good Habits Beget Good Sleep


Keep nighttime meals on the lighter, healthier side. Follow a low-GI diet – fruits, veggies, nuts, whole grains, lean protein; avoid processed carbs and anything with added sugar.


Keep a journal and write down 3 things you’re grateful for before bed.


Set a specific bedtime (but realize it takes 21 days for your body to acclimate to a routine). A schedule will help train your body to expect sleep at a specific time


Make sure the bedroom is dark. Blackout curtains/shades are a very worthy investment.


Hazel’s Picks:
The Anti-Anxiety Notebook
Five Minute Journal
The Alternative Route
For some women, supplements like valerian root, ashwagandha, and melatonin can be super helpful with sleep. And there is promising research on the impact of CBD on sleep symptoms for menopausal women. (Of course, you should always consult with your healthcare provider before taking supplements.) 
Acupuncture has also shown promising results in decreasing hot flashes and improving disrupted sleep and mood in as little as several weeks of treatment, so definitely worth consideration.
Hazel’s Picks:
Proper Sleep + Calm
State Of Evening Primrose Supplement (966 words)
- [The Hazel Edit: A Nontoxic State Of Mind](/content/blogs/musings/the-hazel-edit-a-nontoxic-state-of-mind/index.html):  
Welcome to The Hazel Edit, a monthly series with a very simple mission: to inspire and delight you with the things we're watching, wearing, gifting, following, listening to... all of it!
In honor of Earth month, we dedicate this month’s The Hazel Edit to a mindset that’s better for your body, your relationships, and the planet. 
For us, that means choosing products that don’t contain harmful ingredients (but never sacrifice efficacy), being open to change and growth (while always remaining true to yourself), and prioritizing sustainable purchases and practices (that, of course, never require compromise).
Girlfriend
There’s nothing not to LOVE about this line of activewear – it’s size-inclusive (XXS-6XL), uber-flattering, super-comfy, made out of recycled water bottles, and comes in the prettiest cheerful hues. 
Kindra x In The Groove Toolbox
Two of our favorite brands joined forces to curate a selection of 10 clean (but uber-powerful) beauty products that support the needs of aging women – from a neck-firming cream to a hair-thickening booster to a collagen-boosting serum. 
Maison Louis Marie
Clean botanical soy candles with unique, complex scents in four distinct profiles – Earthy & Woody, Floral, Fresh, Warm & Spicy. The handy online guide breaks down the top, mid, and base notes, making it easy for you to choose one that speaks to you. (Though truly, you can’t go wrong.)
Brene Brown: Atlas of The Heart
A new docuseries from the infamous researcher/author/podcaster explores how we can cultivate the most meaningful connections with ourselves and each other. Through the five episodes, you’ll come to understand the connection between how people feel, think, and behave – and how that changes everything.
Lula’s Garden
Not only are these the prettiest succulent gardens you ever did see, but they’re also super low maintenance and almost impossible to kill. A single plant brings fresh vibes to a powder room, while a garden makes for a brilliant centerpiece with serious staying power.
Aman Bath Soak
Treat your body to this scrub with serious healing powers for the body and mind. This transformative soak will ease physical and emotional tension, increase focus, boost energy, stimulate circulation, exfoliate, and make your skin glow.  (505 words)
- [The Real Deal with Weight Gain – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-weight-gain/index.html): Let’s just be real: Very few women look forward to the symptoms that typically start to pop up as we enter perimenopause and menopause. But as we have (thankfully) started to talk more openly and honestly about the changes our bodies go through, there are more resources and products readily available that help alleviate things like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and bladder leaks.


“...When your muffin top turns into a cake top.”

The one that can be tougher to address? Weight gain, especially around the midsection. Or as integrated dietician Esther Blum describes it, “when your muffin top turns into a cake top.” But contrary to what many say, it’s not just something you have to accept as part of the process. It’s all about understanding the bigger picture.
We chatted with Blum – a Functional Medicine Dietitian who’s been coaching clients for more than 27 years – about her whole body approach that makes so. much. sense. It’s all about eating plenty of protein, managing your stress level, getting enough sleep, and balancing hormones. 
Read on for an easy-to-understand explanation of what’s actually happening in your body and the food and lifestyle changes that can make all the difference. 
Here's The Deal
No, your metabolism does not slow down with age – that’s a myth. As you enter perimenopause/menopause, your body produces less estrogen and progesterone, which in turn causes insulin resistance (meaning your body isn’t breaking down carbs). All of that results in – you guessed it – weight gain. 
Good Night, Sleep Tight
Progesterone is a calming neurotransmitter that gives you good deep sleep, so as those levels decline during menopause, sleep struggles ensue. Lack of sleep leads to stronger cravings, which leads to you eating the chocolate and packing on the pounds. You have to break the vicious cycle. 
So About That Sleep
Small sleep hygiene tweaks can make a big difference. An hour before bed, avoid blue light and screens. Put yourself in a timeout where you just slow down – take a bath, meditate, breathe, just. chill. out. 
The Power Of Protein
When it comes to food, the key to staving off those extra pounds is to eat more protein than carbs. She recommends four to six ounces of protein at all three meals (yes that much, and yes at every meal). Protein is the only nutrient that shuts off hunger in the brain. (Ever heard of someone eating 40 ounces of chicken? Us either.) It also stabilizes blood sugar, which in turn kills cravings and promotes sleep. Bonus points for helping to build muscle and maintain bone density. 
Get On The Fast Track
Give intermittent fasting a try. Start with a 12-hour fast, and if you can tolerate it, extend it to 14 or even 16 hours but no more than that. This resets insulin receptors…
Kind Of A Buzzkill
Sorry, but if you really want to optimize your health, you need to say buh-bye to alcohol (or at least cut back). Just one drink slows down your thyroid function for up to 4 days! Plus, alcohol is a major sleep disruptor, not to mention extra calories. It’s just a fact – it’s really hard to lose fat when you’re drinking. 
Take It Down A Notch
And now for some welcome news: Ease up on the cardio. Yep, you read that right. This is the time to shift from long-duration cardio to gentler workouts like walking, yoga, and low-intensity biking. Here’s why: High-intensity workouts raise your Cortisol, which causes you to crash with fatigue afterwards and then sleep horribly (which causes the cravings, the chocolate… you get the drift). Walking naturally lowers cortisol and burns fat. It’s also imperative that you lift weight to prevent age- and hormone-related muscle loss. Building muscle helps burn body fat, builds bone density, and keeps your mind sharp.
Hormone Balancing Act
There is so much rampant misinformation on HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). The versions that your mother took were chemically-derived from the urine of pregnant horses (yep, you read that right). To start, that’s obviously not structurally similar to our own natural hormones, but they also put you at higher risk for cancer and heart disease. For this reason, many doctors will simply tell you you don’t “need” HRT. But the science is simple: Without enough estrogen, many experience brain fog, short-term memory loss, low (or no) libido, and vaginal dryness. And without enough progesterone, expect to feel ragey, anxious, and depressed. 
That’s no way to live. Did you know there’s a brilliant alternative to traditional HRT? Meet BHRT (Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy), the man-made version that is biologically identical to the ones your body makes, so you can absorb them easily. There is promising research to show that BHRT offsets bone loss, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. BHRT can be compounded, which means the dosages can be customized based on your individual needs.Of course, you should consult your doctor, as not all women can take HRT or BHRT.
A Woman With A Plan
Knowledge is power, and Blum has plenty of it, on top of an approach that makes a daunting struggle feel much less so. And if you’re more of the hand-holding type (that would be us), she does 1-on-1 coaching, offers online programs, and has written books that will help get you feeling (and looking) like your best self. Her next book on menopause will be released on October 6, 2022. Follow Esther on IG or go to www.estherblum.com and sign up for her newsletter to learn more! (1,065 words)
- [Ever-Evolving Woman | Susan Feldman – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/ever-evolving-woman-susan-feldman/index.html): 
At Hazel, we embrace everything that comes with being a woman. And by everything, we mean everything – from periods and perimenopause to leaks and low sex drive. Through this series, we share the stories of inspiring tastemakers and rule breakers living their truth at every age. We don’t shy away from taboos. We eyeroll at the word perfect – it’s all about celebrating the perfectly imperfect. 


Susan Feldman is a go-getter. A self-described worker bee. A total badass.

When the One Kings Lane co-founder sees an opportunity, she springs into action (wildly successful action at that). She was 53 when she launched OKL – a passion project she chose over retirement – and 60 when they sold it to Bed Bath & Beyond.  
And then a thing started happening. As she began re-engaging with friends 50+ after being heads down for basically seven years, she kept hearing the same thing over and over: They weren’t feeling great about themselves – the word invisible came up a lot.  
She told us, “My hypothesis was that women were feeling this way because around 50, it’s a perfect storm for so many of us – you go through menopause, become empty nesters, and you're looking at a partner you haven’t been engaged with in 20 years and aren’t sure if you even want to be with that person anymore. It’s a LOT.”
She started researching where these women were going online, and the options were either AARP or a sea of bloggers – no one had built a go-to brand for them. And the crazy thing is, they spend 250% more than any other demo out there. It was a huge opportunity.
And that’s how In The Groove came to be. A lifestyle destination for age-defying women, it’s a brilliant resource for everything you should know about, from chic must-have staples for your closet to the moisturizer that’s going to smoothe out crepey skin to the fancy lube that’s going to change your sex life. 
Read on for Susan’s refreshing perspective on aging, her self-care routine, and why sex gets more interesting as you get older.  
On A Mission
My goal with In The Groove is to show women 50+ in a different light. We’re a new generation (nothing like our mothers) – we’re healthier, wealthier, and trying to find our way. It’s my way of doing a small part to change the conversation around ageism because, sadly, of all the isms, it’s the last one for people to get to. My hope is that it makes these women feel seen and want to engage more.  
The Curator
I’ve always been a good listener and observer, and I’ve worked in fashion my whole career. When I go out, I’m always eyes wide open, looking around to see what’s going on culturally and picking up on trends. That’s what In The Groove is all about. 
On Aging
The best thing about getting older is getting older – it’s a privilege, a gift. The last 1.5 years, so many haven’t had the gift of celebrating a birthday. We spent a lot of time with our son, daughter-in-law, and two grandkids during Covid and that time was so special – that’s what it’s all about. They have since moved 3,000 miles away, which has been hard, but now all three of our kids live back East, so we get to see everyone at the same time! 
Self Care
One day I look in the mirror and feel good about myself, and the next it’s like what has happened?! You can dress to your body as it changes, but the wrinkles and crepey skin can be a real bummer. But with age you get this wisdom that no one is turning back the clock, so you take care of yourself – eat well and exercise – to feel your best. 
Up And At ‘Em
I’m a morning person and start my day with exercise because if it doesn’t happen then, it’s probably not going to happen. I switch it up between pilates, spinning, and rebounding, and I play golf on the weekends (always walking the course). 

Ever-Evolving Means... 

Taking care of yourself – inside and outside – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Coming to terms with wherever you are in life and figuring out how to be happy and productive. My mom is 92 and has stopped exercising, so I recently said to my youngest daughter, ‘If I ever get to that point, remind me to keep going!’ It can be hard to motivate yourself. 
Free Your Mind
Mentally, as you get older, your perspective on things changes – Don’t sweat the small stuff truly becomes a reality. You address what’s important, and the rest you just let it go. I finally learned how to say ‘no’ (I’ve been a pleaser all my life), which has put me in a better place mentally and emotionally. 
Who Runs The World?
I’m so inspired by my daughters and women of the younger generations – they are awesome, strong, and kickass in how they think about things, act, and what they are doing personally and professionally. 
Fill In The Blanks...
Sex gets __________ as you get older because ___________ .
Sex gets more interesting because you need to get creative!  
Keep It Simple
My style has always been classic with a twist. It’s become more of that since I’ve gotten older. I spent my 30s and 40s accumulating, then my 50s and 60s figuring out that I didn’t need all of it. I now know what I like and what looks good on me – great core classics and have fun with accessories.  (1,083 words)
- [Store Locator – Hazel](/content/pages/store-locator/index.html): Loading store locator from Stockist store locator... (1,651 words)
- [Privacy Policy – Hazel](/content/pages/privacy-policy/index.html): Privacy Policy Last updated and effective on October 26, 2021.   This privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”) applies to activities by Hello Hazel, Inc. and its affiliates and subsidiaries (collectively “Hazel,” “Owner,” “we” or “us”). We take your privacy seriously. This Privacy Policy describes our policies and procedures  (5,005 words)
- [Ever-Evolving Woman | Stacy London – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/stacy-london-ever-evolving-woman/index.html): 

At Hazel, we embrace everything that comes with being a woman. And by everything, we mean everything – from periods and perimenopause to leaks and low sex drive. Through this series, we share the stories of inspiring tastemakers and rule breakers living their truth at every age. We don’t shy away from taboos. We eyeroll at the word perfect – it’s all about celebrating the perfectly imperfect. 


Stacy London wants to be the freakin’ Master of the Universe of Menopause. 

And she’s well on her way. 
She says that somewhat jokingly, of course, but as the CEO of State Of – a brand dedicated to menopausal education and products that address its symptoms – she’s determined to change the conversation (well, more like start it) around this natural transition. 
She told us, “I had such a difficult time because no one had prepared me, and I struggled to connect the dots to the symptoms I was experiencing. My body ached. I couldn’t sleep. My skin (and nether regions) dried up like the Sahara. I was always itchy. I suddenly had cystic acne and gray chin hairs. I was anxious and grumpy. My jawline and waistline disappeared. I started getting really hot. I looked like I’d taken a shower, fully clothed, while talking to someone about something I’d forget mid-sentence!”
She was approached about being a beta tester for State Of in its early stages, and her super-opinionated feedback made it clear she was the person that should own this brand. So she acquired it in April of 2021 and officially became the face of menopause.
“If I’d been armed with information, it would have been a very different experience. We need to talk about it – and not sugarcoat it. I want State Of to be the place women go to have these discussions.”
Stacy got super-real with us about everything going on in her world right now – from her grief over losing her father three years ago to her relationship with Cat Yezbak to why she gives zero f*^ks what anyone thinks about her. 
Let’s Do This
Middle age is not the Middle Ages. It’s like the middle of a book – plot twists happen, people pivot. I feel like I'm just getting started, launching a startup at 52 in the middle of menopause. Sure, it’s stressful, but I feel compelled to do this. I’m privileged and fortunate to have been able to acquire this company, but the needs of this community demand attention.
Different But Same
My career as a stylist wasn’t about the clothes, it was what the clothes could do – let people see themselves and accept themselves in a new way. While being a host on What Not To Wear seems drastically different from being CEO of State Of, I have the same goal, which is to build people up with self awareness and self confidence.
The Why
I totally lost my sense of identity during menopause, as did so many women that I’ve talked to. No matter how many common symptoms plague us, it’s a different experience for everyone – from how long it goes on to the severity of the issues and how they interfere with the quality of your daily life. And, no, there is no magic bullet to get you through. The needs of this community are so huge, and I want to build an ecosystem for this audience.  
The Why (Part 2)
I don’t mind being the face of menopause – something icky, yucky, and dark for some people. But for me, it’s about taking on a subject that’s all about ageism and sexism, which are really one in the same, as we don’t allow women to age in our society. I don't believe I’m past my expiration date, but because of the stigma, we have a lot to break through. We are breadwinners, heads of households, and the idea that we are less attractive or commercially viable because we are no longer ovulating is one of the biggest mysteries I have encountered. We don’t let kids go through puberty without talking to them; why is this any different? It’s such a prehistoric mindset. 
On Her Relationship
The reason I waited to announce I was dating Cat wasn't because I was hiding anything, it was because I was figuring out how it fit in the narrative of my life. Was it going to last? It felt too important for me to casually drop, so I waited about a year. When I found out there was chatter on Twitter that I had a girlfriend, I addressed it head on because it’s my narrative, and I decide when something as important as a relationship is worth sharing. 
I fell in love with someone. I’m a white woman of privilege, so the stakes were very different for me. My family accepts me and Cat. There was no one to fire me or discriminate against me. Other people fought for this right to love anyone before me – to be whatever sexuality or gender they are. I will never forget or not acknowledge that. The systemic dismantling of age, race, gender, and sexuality certainly gave me confidence to be more transparent about my relationship. And the response was incredibly positive. It was nice to see my happiness embraced. It’s been 3 years, and that’s still a landmark moment. 
On Grief
I find the more transparent you are about painful things, the more relatable you are to people. I have found incredible comfort in the fact that speaking my truth has given people an outlet to express their own. Being able to express my grief over losing my dad has been my only way through it. The space to acknowledge and accept it gets bigger with time, but it never goes away. There are days when I can laugh and think about funny stories and they make me smile, but other days, it brings me to my knees. It’s been 3 years: The first year I was numb. The second was more painful because it felt so final. And this year has been both. The intensity of missing him is balanced out by being lucky enough to have a father that I would miss this much in the first place. That’s how I see it. 
Warm & Fuzzy
The day after my father passed, a friend texted that she left something outside my door. I opened the bag, and it was a huge snuggie, fuzzy socks, and chocolate. The note said, ‘Put this on and don't take it off until you feel like it. Soft things matter now.’ I didn't take that snuggie off for two weeks. The softness and safety felt like I was being held in my grief. We forget how tactile things can affect us in a big way emotionally. 
Gray Area
My gray streaks – which I’ve had since I was 11! – are becoming a full head of gray hair, and I couldn't be happier. I loved that they came in Cruella-style. Looking forward to what a full head of gray will look like! 
The Thing That TRULY Gets Better With Age
You’re out of fucks to give. The reason people say youth is wasted on the young is because we are so concerned with public perception rather than focusing on what matters to us. Age gives you permission to start looking at what your needs really are. As you age, you find your people. The amount of friends I've made since turning 40 is astronomical because I know what I need in a friend. I used to spend oodles of time trying to make people like me that I didn't even care about. I’ve become transparent, softer, less judgmental, and I don’t put up walls around me. I've gotten so much better with age. 

What Ever-Evolving Means To Her

We are never not evolving. Evolution is the guarantee of life. Ideally you’re participating in a proactive way, but like it or not, it’s going to happen. The idea that you can freeze time – looks, opinions, whatever – that's a disservice to the person you can become. Women are proactively dismantling the systems that no longer work, and we are at an incredible moment in history to watch it happen. We still need to do a lot of work, but it’s coming.  

Fill In The Blank... Sex gets __________ as you get older because ___________ .

Sex gets different because intimacy changes. My definition of intimacy is something that absolutely evolves. Sex is sex – however it works or looks like for you, that’s hot. For younger people to think its gross to have sex over 60 is so annoying. It's a personal intimate act, and the way you express it doesn't have to be anyone else's version.  (1,610 words)
- [The Fine Art of Our Femme Care – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-fine-art-of-our-femme-care/index.html): 
It all started with you. 
Conversations about how our bodies change as we experience pregnancy, menopause, and just the typical day-to-day. Over and over we kept hearing the same thing: The incontinence options were awful and outdated. 
So we set out to design a product that addressed every pain point and included every last detail on your wish lists. 


First, we listened. 
Knowledge is power, so we started by doing our homework: We surveyed 1,000+ women ages 45-75 who experience leaks, conducted hundreds of in-depth 1-on-1 interviews, and held multiple focus groups.

Then we formed a sisterhood – kindred spirits that just get it.

Our Customer Advisory Board consists of 25 women from a variety of ages, shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. They were (and still are!) involved every step of the way in the product development process.
It was finally time to get down to brass tacks. 
The list of must-haves was a lengthy one:

Look and feel like real underwear (the cute kind)
No VPL (visible panty lines)
Control top for a flattering silhouette under clothes
Thin enough to go undetectable under leggings
Zero bulk (i.e. The opposite of an adult diaper)
Contoured to your body so it stays put (no awkward adjusting every time you sit/stand)
No swishing sound when you walk
Super-absorbent (must hold a bladder-full of liquid, just in case)

We were up for the challenge.
In order to bring this ground-breaking product to fruition, we enlisted a team of fashion designers and material scientists. After over a year of prototypes, followed by fittings, followed by tweaks, followed by more prototypes, and on and on (for 10+ iterations), we finally nailed it. 
And that's how the High & Dry Brief came to be! (431 words)
- [Home page – Hazel](/content/collections/frontpage/index.html): Our little luxuries make living your best life a whole lot easier. (441 words)
- [The Real Deal with UTIs – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-utis/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
If you’ve had one before, the symptoms are unmistakable: an intense urge to pee, burning with urination, urethral/vulvar pain, maybe you have to run to the bathroom every few minutes even though only a few drops come out. The symptoms are intense and consume your attention — you drop everything so that you can see your physician and get those antibiotics — you undoubtedly have another urinary tract infection (aka UTI). Or do you?
What you may not know is that the same symptoms that you experience when you have a UTI — the burning, urgency, and frequency — can also be a result of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and not related to an infection at all. You may have heard of a ‘Phantom UTI,’ which is when you have symptoms of a UTI without an actual infection.
Here’s another twist: you could have a UTI and pelvic floor dysfunction. In a classic “chicken and egg” scenario, having a stubborn UTI (or multiple in a row) can contribute to developing pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. In turn, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction can lead to developing UTIs. So what can you do about it? Read on for some helpful advice you may not have heard before.
Signs you may have a urinary tract infection
A urinary tract infection develops when the bacteria that was once hanging out around your urethra sneaks up the urethra, into the bladder. This bacteria can irritate the lining of the urethra and bladder, cause severe inflammation and lead to painful urethral burning and irritating symptoms.
If a true infection is present, your body will trigger an immune response to prevent the infection from taking over your body. You may develop symptoms such as cloudy or foul-smelling urine or even a fever. If you develop these symptoms, there’s a greater chance that they are due to an actual UTI — but it’s always best to check in with your physician to be certain.
There are many factors that have been found to increase your chances of getting a UTI, including certain medical conditions, genetic factors, and frequent sexual intercourse (don’t forget to pee after sex, which helps keep bacteria out of your urethra). UTIs are also more common for individuals who have pelvic organ prolapse, trouble emptying their bladder completely, or who are in menopause. That connection isn’t coincidental, but more on that later.
When pelvic floor dysfunction could be to blame
Your pelvic floor muscles (see diagram below) are the group of muscles positioned at the bottom of your pelvis that lift and support the position and function of your pelvic organs (bladder, bowel, uterus), and help with blood flow and circulation in this area. Ideally, these muscles should be strong, coordinated, and flexible, but this isn’t always the case. When these muscles aren’t working as they should, it’s called pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD).
One type of PFD occurs when the muscles are tight and overactive. With overactivity, the muscles become shortened, inflexible, and wreak havoc on your joints, nerves, blood flow, and disrupt normal bladder, bowel, and sexual function. Basically, there is a charley horse in your pelvis, and this can lead to symptoms such as pain around the vulva and urethra, urinary frequency and urgency, as well as pain with urination. Other symptoms of an overactive pelvic floor include constipation, pain with sex, or even bladder leakage.
PFD & UTIs can create a vicious cycle
It’s not just your immune system that works overtime when you have an infection, your pelvic floor muscles may also go into defense mode. Research shows that your pelvic floor muscles are reliable guard dogs for your pelvic health and will tense up in response to actual, or perceived threats, which in this case would be a UTI.
Now imagine a sudden stroke of bad luck and you get a few UTIs in a row, or you have a particularly stubborn one that just won’t go away until you take a mega-dose of antibiotics. After responding to the threat of infection, your pelvic floor muscles may struggle to relax and return to normal functioning — this is how overactive pelvic floor muscle dysfunction can develop after a UTI.
When pelvic floor muscles are overactive, they have a hard time relaxing enough to help you pee. Normally when it’s time to pee and you sit down on the toilet, your pelvic floor muscles relax which helps your urethra to open, making a path for urine to exit. The muscle that surrounds the bladder then contracts and pushes the urine out, hopefully without resistance from your pelvic floor muscles. If your muscles aren’t relaxing enough — or at all — then all of the urine can’t get out, which then increases the chances of another UTI developing.
When to see a pelvic floor physical therapist
Because an infection can lead to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and pelvic floor muscle dysfunction can lead to infection, and they can even be occurring and worsening at the same time, it’s hard to know what to do or who to turn to when symptoms pop up.
If it’s the first time you’re experiencing these bladder symptoms — especially if your symptoms are associated with cloudy or smelly urine, or a fever — then it’s best to check in with your physician to see if you have an infection. A simple urine culture test can rule an infection in or out, within a day or two. If you need antibiotics, they will know what to prescribe. There are even at-home UTI tests now available, or you can get a full vaginal microbiome test at-home to help you uncover what might be causing recurrent UTIs.
If you don’t have an infection and your physician determines that there is not a medical explanation for what is going on, then checking in with a pelvic PT is the next best step. They’ll be able to help determine if your symptoms are related to PFD, and create a treatment program to restore your muscle and bladder function to relieve your pain.
Another reason you want to check in with a pelvic PT is if your UTIs keep coming back because there is likely a PFD that is hiding in the background, keeping your bladder from working efficiently. Remember the UTI risk factors we listed above — pelvic organ prolapse, incomplete bladder emptying, and menopause? By improving your pelvic floor muscle function and reducing the muscle-related risk factors of UTIs, pelvic floor therapy can help get you off of the UTI/antibiotics merry-go-round, and get you back to feeling good again. (1,306 words)
- [The Postpartum PT Checklist – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-postpartum-pt-checklist/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
Predictable isn’t a word we’d typically use to describe the first two years after giving birth, but there’s one thing we know for sure: Everyone can benefit from postpartum physical therapy. So why aren’t you automatically referred to a pelvic floor PT after having a baby? A recent editorial for Obstetrics & Gynecology put it best: “The current health care system does not prioritize care in the year after delivery and lacks an individualized approach that ensures postpartum patients are connected to the care they need.”
The status quo after childbirth is to have one postpartum visit with your OBGYN at 6 weeks. Once you’re “cleared for activity,” you’re expected to be able to do all the things you used to — and much more — regardless of how your body has been impacted by pregnancy and delivery. This is not only unrealistic, it causes unnecessary pain and suffering.

“The strain of pregnancy and childbirth pushes your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to the limit.”

While your body has an amazing ability to adapt, the strain of pregnancy and childbirth pushes your abdominal and pelvic floor muscles to the limit. Without rehabilitation, they often remain weak, tight, and/or uncoordinated. It’s no wonder that 58% of individuals who gave birth vaginally and 43% of those who had a Cesarean birth report symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction (think: incontinence, prolapse, and painful sex), while 1 in 3 still has diastasis recti (aka separated abs) one year after childbirth. Stats like these have spurred the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) and the World Health Organization (WHO) to recommend better postpartum medical care.
At Origin, we’re leading the way with our Postpartum Recovery Program, which was developed by our expert clinical team and provides the education and guidance that every postpartum individual needs to heal from pregnancy and childbirth, reactivate their abdominals and pelvic floor, and protect their body from pain, injury, and pelvic floor dysfunction.
Not sure if physical therapy will be worth the time and effort? Here are 7 reasons why it's one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby.
1. You'll Reactivate your abs
When you think about how your skin was stretched to the max in pregnancy, your abdominal muscles are probably a close second. So much so, that you may have even developed some amount of diastasis recti. After being stretched and strained for over 9 months, your muscles are bound to feel weaker, difficult to connect with, and even a little foreign to you.

“After being stretched and strained for over 9 months, your muscles are bound to feel weaker.”

When seeing a physical therapist in the postpartum period, you'll learn to safely reconnect with your abdominal muscles, and confidently start using and strengthening them. Healthy abdominals not only allow you to move, breathe, and care for your baby without pain, they'll help protect your back and support pelvic muscle function.
2. You'll Prevent & treat pelvic symptoms
Pelvic floor injuries that are common in pregnancy and childbirth can lead to symptoms including pelvic pain, bladder or bowel leakage, and pelvic pressure or heaviness (prolapse). Studies show that these symptoms are associated with postpartum mood and anxiety disorders, and can significantly reduce quality of life. Having multiple children and going through menopause can increase their negative impact.
A pelvic floor physical therapist can provide you with a full evaluation of your pelvic floor muscles and injuries, information about your symptoms, and a clear path back to lasting pelvic health.
3. You'll improve your sex life
After having a baby, you are bound to hit a few bumps in the road on the way back to the bedroom. In fact, nearly 2 out of 3 birthing people experience sexual dysfunction in the postpartum period. That can include decreased desire, problems with sexual arousal, or inability to orgasm. Multiple factors, including lack of sleep, poor body image, pelvic floor symptoms such as leakage, pelvic pressure, or pain can all contribute to sexual dysfunction.

“Pelvic floor physical therapists are experts in getting to the bottom of sexual dysfunction.”

As pelvic floor physical therapists, we are experts in getting to the bottom of sexual dysfunction and can help heal your injuries by optimizing your pelvic muscle function, minimizing pain and scar tissue, and getting you the resources your need to have a satisfying sex life.
4. You'll have an easier time feeding
Whether you're breast/chestfeeding or using formula, feeding your baby comes with many challenges. Whatever your baby-feeding goals, postpartum physical therapy can support them.
When working with a postpartum PT, you'll learn how to reduce inflammation and prevent symptoms associated with clogged milk ducts and mastitis, use ergonomic feeding and pumping positions to keep your body out of pain, take care of delicate breast and nipple skin, and much more. If needed, your PT can also connect you with a trusted lactation consultant.
5. You'll Defy the "pee when you sneeze" cliché
While bladder leaks can often be expected in the first few weeks after a vaginal delivery (we recommend Hazel's briefs to get you through!), incontinence should naturally resolve as your tissues heal and swelling and bruising goes down. Unfortunately, it's all too common for urinary leakage to persist — and you may even experience loss of stool or gas.
Retrain your pelvic floor muscles so that they can hold in pee, poop, and gas under pressure.
No one should put up with incontinence, just because they had a baby. Bladder or bowel leaks can take a toll on emotional wellbeing and can lead to continued pelvic floor muscle function. Through evidence-based treatments, your pelvic floor PT will help you strengthen and retrain your pelvic floor muscles so that they can hold in pee, poop, and gas under pressure.
6. You'll Care for your scar tissue
Whether your scar tissue is from a tear during vaginal delivery or the result of a Cesarean incision, postpartum physical therapy can help you avoid common scar complications.
Even after your tear or incision has healed, scar tissue can limit blood flow to the area, which can affect nerve function and lead to pain, poor muscle function, and trigger points in the muscle. Cesarean section scar tissue can also grow deep in the abdomen, forming adhesions that impact the muscles and even the function of abdominal organs. In some cases, deep scaring can reduce gastrointestinal function and even lead to mechanical infertility.
A postpartum physical therapist will teach you about your scar and, based on your health history, trauma history, and the extent of your injuries during delivery, recommend personalized scar care and massage techniques.
7. You'll Exercise effectively
Whether your goals are to keep up with your active kids, join your friends at Camp Gladiator, or finish a Labor Day 10K, it can seem like the deck is stacked against you after you've had a baby. From sleep deprivation and a demanding feeding schedule to all the conflicting advice from the internet’s various experts, it can be tricky to know where to start when returning to exercise.

Don't waste a drop of precious energy on workouts that don't get results.

Your postpartum physical therapist can guide you in exercising not just safely, but also effectively — so you don't waste a drop of precious energy on workouts that don't get results. After fully assessing your muscles and checking for injuries, imbalances, and movement impairments, your PT will work with you to create an evidence-based exercise program that promotes proper muscle function, empowers you to build lasting strength, and helps you feel better than you ever imagined in your postpartum body.
  (1,480 words)
- [The Real Deal with Prolapse – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-prolapse/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.

“It feels like something is coming out of my vagina…all the time. What does that mean for the rest of my life?” 

When people are first diagnosed with pelvic organ prolapse, they’re often hearing about this condition for the first time. The lack of information is surprising, since up to 50% of women will develop pelvic organ prolapse at some point in their life. But, like many conditions that primarily impact people with vaginas, the research is lacking and the topic is taboo.

“I feel like people don’t talk about [prolapse] enough. It’s a bit like miscarriage. It makes it harder for people to know where to get the right information and to ask the right questions.”

The problem with pelvic organ prolapse being a taboo topic is that those going through it rarely feel validated, or get the empowering treatment and care they need to feel better. In addition to the long list of symptoms you might experience with prolapse (persistent pelvic heaviness, low back pain, and painful sex to name a few), a prolapse diagnosis can feel scary, emotional, and isolating.
While most research is limited to prevalence and treatment, a recent study focuses on the lived experience of prolapse — how it impacts people’s sex lives, self-esteem, work, exercise, and hopes and fears for the future — and damn it can feel good to have your experience validated!
We took a look at the Pelvic organ prolapse: The lived experience study alongside Origin’s Physical Therapist and Clinical Learning & Development Lead, Dr. Ashley Rawlins PT, DPT. Here’s what participants had to say about pelvic organ prolapse, in their own words.
What does pelvic organ prolapse feel like?
Dr. Rawlins explains that like any condition, it really depends on the person. The prolapse experience can vary based on which organ or organs are involved and the grade (grade “0” is normal anatomical position, whereas “4” means the vaginal vault has completely prolapsed out of the body). For many people, pelvic organ prolapse can feel like a heavy or dragging sensation in the low belly, vagina, or rectum.
“I feel like my insides are going to fall out.”
“I just felt I had no support so like it was just, just like weight, you know? Just like a dragging, hanging feeling, and then…you felt like you didn’t have…the strength or something, you know?”
“Subconsciously you think of it all the time, like so you almost think like, what can I do to fix it like, you know, all the time.”
“I’d say I think about something related to my prolapse three or four times an hour.”
Prolapse can impact self esteem
Some people with prolapse describe feeling broken, which can really impact self-esteem — especially when it’s hard to know whether you’ll ever get back to “normal.” People have reported negative changes in body image, annoyance, frustration, anxiety, and sadness. If you’re feeling any of these after learning you have prolapse, you’re not alone.
“I definitely feel less…feminine, I feel…I feel weak, because I feel like there’s something holding me back…I don’t feel like the person I was before.”
“You kinda just think it’s older women that it happens to...I’d never have thought that my bowel would be bulging into my vaginal wall.”
“You feel broken, you feel completely banjaxed, you feel like you’re an old woman before your time…you know, you don’t feel attractive.”
Prolapse gets pushed under the carpet
Many participants talked about how pelvic health diagnoses feel stigmatized or taboo. Friends and family never seem to discuss prolapse. Dismissed by healthcare professionals, some said they weren’t given enough information about what to expect or how to treat prolapse. Others said that prolapse was described as a "normal" part of a woman's life.
“I’ve never heard any other woman in my life talk about those things.”
“I hate that people think that it’s normal for this to happen to your body [after childbirth]. And like if you’re my age (in your mid 30s), I would have to live with that for the rest of my life, just because somebody thinks it’s normal. I think that’s completely unacceptable.”
“I didn’t know what it would feel like, or I didn’t know what it would entail, or what the recovery would be like.”
“[My doctor] just basically told me not to lift anything heavy.”
“People make a joke of it. There’s ads on television telling you, ‘don’t worry about it, just buy these black nappies and you’ll be fine.’ You know?”
“I think, you know, it comes back to (and I know it’s a very general view) but it comes back to my view that it’s a male-dominated profession. And, there’s just…there’s just not the consideration…, given to women particularly.”
Prolapse can change how you move your body
With prolapse, daily activities and exercises that felt good in the past might now be uncomfortable. And many people with prolapse are afraid of doing something that could make their symptoms worse.


Running, dancing, and other forms of physical exercise can become difficult or feel off-limits due to discomfort or fear of making symptoms worse.


Everyday tasks like emptying the kitchen bin, carrying the vacuum upstairs, or doing more than an hour of housework can lead to pain or fatigue the next day.


Social or recreational activities, such as hiking or swimming, might require extra preparation or may be avoided out of self-consciousness or concern about symptom flare-ups.


“I can’t go for a run; I can’t do these things I would do to kind of relieve stress as well. You know…that kind of physical stress relief. I feel like I don’t really have that.”“I used to love doing dance and it probably would make me feel a little more anxious about kind of going back to something like that.”
“I do have the fear that if I push myself too much I’ll make it worse.”
“No, no exercise, like I literally do nothing, which is desperate, but it’s very hard to find an exercise that is prolapse friendly.”
“There’s loads of things I can’t do around the house, I can’t empty the kitchen bin because…it’s too heavy. I’m not supposed to carry the hoover upstairs but I do and then I pay for it the next day. Even just doing like, more than an hour of housework, I’d be in bits the next day.”
“I love going swimming…but I’d imagine that at some point, I was going to feel self-conscious about it or think that it was getting worse from it and so…why start if you’re going to have to stop?”
“I don’t like going on hikes or anything, unless I am very well prepared with taking a little portable toilet and or she-wee so that I can pee standing up.”
 
Prolapse can impact your home and work life
 
Some people have left jobs or avoided certain types of work due to prolapse. Others share how hard it is to do daily chores or care for a small child. It can be really frustrating to feel like options are off the table — or like you shouldn’t do things that you simply have to do in your daily life, like lifting your baby.
“I have a commute…and that means carrying my laptop bag and the walk is maybe 10, 15 minutes both ways so that would…that would affect me.”
“I was thinking of applying for a job in a nursing home nearby. But actually…I wouldn’t be able to lift the patients. Because you’re not meant to lift anything heavy. And you’re not meant to be on your feet for too long either…So, I just decided not to apply for the job.”
“It just makes me so anxious when I feel it getting worse, like if I do something…like last the last few nights my toddler’s teething…now I’m just so anxious thinking…I’m not going to be able to cope because I lift him and I end up in pain.”
“I was very conscious of not being able to lift and not being able to care for him in the same way that I would have wanted to, because I wasn’t able to run round and just…lift him up on things, lift him up for a hug and stuff like that.”
 
Prolapse can make sex feel different
 
Dr. Rawlins explains that prolapse can make penetrative sex feel more irritating or painful depending on your pelvic floor health. If the bladder is involved, a finger, toy, or penis could hit on a part of the bladder during penetration, causing pain or urgency.
“I don’t want to say to my husband, no actually I don’t want to have sex, because I can feel stool there, in my vagina and…I don’t want to say that, you know?”
“I wasn’t able to have sex, penetration was just impossible.”
“We’ve held off on doing anything until I can see a specialist because I feel very nervous about it so yeah, that’s affecting that but he’s, like I said very, very understanding.”
Dr. Rawlins often recommends experimenting with different sexual positions to reduce pain with insertion, like hip elevation or hands and knees. “There are body mechanics for everything, including sex,” she shares.
Healing prolapse with pelvic floor PT
When it comes to supporting a patient with prolapse, Dr. Rawlins says, “There’s so much pelvic floor physical therapists can do.” First, she helps patients determine what’s going on with their pelvic floor that could be contributing to their symptoms. Together, she and her patients identify strategies and body mechanics that can reduce strain and pressure on the pelvic organs. Taking a holistic approach, Dr. Rawlins also works with patients on:


Core stability


Eating well


Easing constipation


Addressing any chronic coughing or breathing trouble


She sometimes advises her patients to use pessaries, prosthetic devices that support vaginal walls and bring relief, which she calls “a sports bra for your vagina.”
It’s so important not to feel isolated when you’re dealing with prolapse.
Dr. Rawlins is also doing her part to break the taboo when it comes to prolapse. “I’ll share something like, ‘You know what? I also have pelvic organ prolapse. I got through it and I’m confident you can, too. This is something we can work on together. Prolapse isn’t normal, but it’s really common. I’ve treated so many patients with symptoms like yours and there’s always room for improvement.’” When patients hear this, Dr. Rawlins says, “You can see their chest fall with relief. It’s so important not to feel isolated when you’re dealing with prolapse.”
Trying to figure out where to start? You can do a self-check for pelvic organ prolapse to learn more about your body. You can also make an appointment with a specialist today. At Origin, we’ve helped hundreds of patients improve pelvic organ prolapse with pelvic floor physical therapy, a safe and effective treatment that can eliminate the need for surgery. (2,025 words)
- [Musings – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/index.html): Our little luxuries make living your best life a whole lot easier. (524 words)
- [High & Dry Briefs – Hazel](/content/products/high-and-dry-briefs/index.html): Disposable, leakproof briefs that look and feel like real underwear. High-rise, full coverage brief designed to hit you "just right". So you can get back to chasing kids and running miles. (1,174 words)
- [The Real Deal with Vulva & Vaginal Dryness – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-vulva-vaginal-dryness/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
A dry vulva or vagina can feel a bit different to everyone: Vulvar itching or burning, a feeling like you’re never lubricated even when you’re turned on, or even a dry sandpaper-like feeling between your labia. These frustrating sensations send you diving into your medicine cabinet in search of anything — skin lotions, petroleum jelly, personal lubricant — that might help you feel better.
However it feels to you, vulvar and vaginal dryness can contribute to a lot more than irritation and discomfort — it can lead to painful sex (aka vaginismus), symptoms such as urinary urgency, frequency and painful urination, and even increase your risk of developing a urinary tract infection. In other words, it's not something to ignore.
Keep reading to find out what can make your vagina and vulva chronically dry (even long before menopause) and how to get relief, ASAP.

What causes vulvar and vaginal dryness?
When healthy and moisturized, vulvar and vaginal tissues are thick and flexible, with good blood supply. When aroused, additional lubricant is produced in glands near the vaginal entrance and through the vaginal epithelium. Additional moisture is provided by cervical mucus (aka cervical discharge). But this can all be disrupted when encountering certain medical conditions, or during life stages when hormone levels are impacted.
While it is very common to experience in menopause (up to 78% people in menopause report vaginal dryness that is most often related to a decline in estrogen levels) there are many other reasons why someone would experience vulvar and vaginal dryness. In fact, according to the Cleveland Clinic, up to 17% of those with vaginal anatomy will experience symptoms of dryness before menopause.
The causes of vaginal dryness may include:


Postpartum, due to the hormone changes of lactation


Certain types of cancer and/or cancer treatments


Surgeries that affect the hormone-producing organs


Hypothalamic-pituitary insufficiency


Medications such as birth control pills or certain antidepressants


Certain autoimmune disorders such as Sjӧgren’s Syndrome or Diabetes



How to treat vulva and vaginal dryness
When these symptoms pop up, it’s always best to check in with your healthcare provider first to help you understand what could be causing your symptoms, and help you rule out any medical conditions that could be to blame. They can also help you find the best treatment options for your symptoms including topical hormones and even pelvic floor physical therapy which can help with the pelvic floor muscle dysfunction that commonly contributes to urinary and sexual symptoms.
Another great option to add to your treatment plan: Vaginal moisturizers. What is great about vaginal moisturizers is that they are typically offered over the counter, are non-hormonal, and are easy to use. Applied directly to soak into your vulvar or vaginal tissues, the main goal of these products is to rehydrate your skin, and to help minimize many of the uncomfortable symptoms related to vaginal dryness.

The best products for a dry vulva or vagina, according to pelvic floor PTs
Revaree Vaginal Suppositories by Bonafide
“I have recommended Revaree thousands of times to my patients. It's a suppository inserted into the vagina that gradually melts at night to rehydrate the vulvar and vaginal tissues. I like that it's less goopy than most liquid moisturizers. In general, I like hyaluronic acid-based moisturizers because they help the tissues retain their natural moisture.” - Liz Miracle, PT, MPT, WCS Origin Head of Clinical Quality and Talent
“I 100% second Revaree for vaginal dryness!” - Anna McMaster, PT, DPT & Jen Carr, PT, DPT, Origin Clinical Directors
Vag of Honor Gel by Stripes
“Vag of Honor is an excellent hyaluronic acid-based product with other ingredients to rehydrate and protect dry vulvar tissues. The gel formula can easily be applied to the clitoris, labia, and the vaginal entrance to help moisturize tissues.” - Ashley Rawlins, PT, DPT, Origin Learning and Development Lead
Replens Long-Lasting Vaginal Moisturizer
“Replens is a great option for people with more sensitive tissues. Plus, this is an inexpensive option that is available over the counter at most drug stores/grocery stores” - Lauren Steel, PT, DPT, Origin Clinical Director
Julva Vulva Soothing Cream
“Julva is a fantastic product designed by an OB/GYN, and is recommended to be used externally (not inserted into the vagina). It has DHEA in it, so check with your physician to make sure this product is safe for you before trying.” - Natalie Russell, PT, DPT, Origin Clinical Director
Slippery Stuff Personal Lubricant
“While personal lubricant isn't meant to moisturize your tissues, it is a vaginal moisturizer's best friend and 
something that I recommend for anyone with vaginal dryness or pain during sex. Slippery Stuff is one of my favorite water-based recommendations because it is super gentle for those with sensitive skin, and easy to find on Amazon." - Leigh Welsh, PT, DPT, OCS, Origin Clinical Director (1,014 words)
- [The Real Deal with Postpartum Sex – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-postpartum-sex/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
At some point during your pregnancy, you probably heard jokes about how an OBGYN will tell a new mom to wait 6 weeks to have sex, and the mom — who is holding a newborn and reeling from childbirth — replies that they’d prefer to wait 6 years. It would be funny if it weren’t so true.
Even if you are craving intimate touch with your partner, finding the time, space, and energy to get frisky is a serious challenge. That’s why it can be especially upsetting if you stay awake long enough to have sex (yes, it’s happening!) only to discover that (ouch!) penetration hurts.
Unfortunately, scenarios like this one are incredibly common. Research shows that 43% of birthing people experience pain with sex, aka dyspareunia, at 2-6 months postpartum and 22% at 6-12 months. It’s important to know that not all vaginal pain is the same, and figuring out the cause is key to knowing how to treat it.
There are many possible reasons why you may have pain with sex postpartum, but below are six of the most common.
1. Scar tissue
According to ACOG, 53-79% of people who deliver vaginally will experience lacerations or tearing of some kind. A tear can range from first degree — affecting only tissue, skin or fascia of the vagina — to fourth degree lacerations, which extend from the vaginal opening to the rectum. Once muscle is torn, whether following a grade 2 to 4 perineal tear or an episiotomy, scar tissue will develop to replace any damaged layers.
Scar tissue is remarkable in its ability to help us recover and restore function, but for many people, it can also be a source of pain due to its decreased flexibility and increased sensitivity. Research shows that the degree of tearing and subsequent scar formation following birth is directly linked to increased pain during postpartum sex.
On the bright side, scar tissue is adaptable and treatable; a physical therapist can guide you through effective strategies to promote healing, reduce pain, and decrease thickness while increasing flexibility at the scar site. And although scars are something you can address at any time, due to the nature of scar tissue, most changes will take place in the first 1-2 years postpartum, so don't wait too long to seek help — the sooner you can begin working with a physical therapist, the better!
PT-Loved Product for Scar Tissue: 
Pelvic Wands: These specialized tools feature a curved design that makes it easy to reach and gently massage scar tissue in the pelvic floor that would be difficult to access with fingers alone. The smooth, body-safe material and varying widths accommodate different comfort levels while helping to soften scar tissue and improve blood flow to the area. When used as directed by your physical therapist, regular massage with a pelvic wand can significantly improve tissue mobility and help restore comfort during intimacy.
2. Vulvar and Vaginal Tissue Irritation
After delivery, your body's hormones shift dramatically. While pregnancy causes estrogen levels to steadily increase, as soon as you deliver, those levels drop severely in order to support lactation and milk production. And while breast or chest feeding has tremendous long term benefit for both the birthing parent and baby, for many people, breastfeeding has also been associated with increased pain with sex in the postpartum period.
Without estrogen, the tissue of your vaginal canal can become thinner, drier, and more vulnerable to irritation and inflammation which can lead to pain or discomfort during or after sex.
Fortunately, for many people, simply adding extra lubrication during sex can reduce and even resolve this pain altogether. That said, if lube alone doesn't resolve your symptoms, it can be helpful to speak with your OB regarding potential topical supplements that you can use while nursing in order to help improve your vaginal health and reduce pain with sex.
3. Nerve Damage
Our nerves relay messages between our brain and body. The primary nerve responsible for communicating with our vulva is called the pudendal nerve. It provides sensory, motor and autonomic function to the anus, genital, and perineal region, but because of the pudendal nerve's location, it can be especially susceptible to damage during vaginal delivery. Damage to the pudendal nerve may result in altered sensations like pain with sitting, persistent genital arousal disorder, and vestibulodynia, making activities like sex or cycling especially painful.
If your pudendal nerve was affected by pregnancy or childbirth, in most cases, this injury is temporary and symptoms should improve within 6 months. Still, it can be helpful to speak with a pelvic floor physical therapist to learn strategies to manage your symptoms, reduce irritation to your nerves, and support healing of the area in the postpartum period.
4. Joint Dysfunction
Some degree of pelvic pain following pregnancy is considered normal, but this pain should fully resolve within the first 6 weeks postpartum. Unfortunately, for nearly 1 in 6 people, pain of the pelvic girdle will remain for several months after delivery. Often, this ongoing pelvic pain is actually linked to pelvic bone edema, pelvic fracture, or pubic symphysis separation.
For those experiencing prolonged pelvic pain following injury to the pelvis, more than 70% reported sexual dysfunction or inability to return to sex due to pain or fear of pain. If you continue to have pelvic pain months after delivery, reach out to your provider as most of these conditions can be diagnosed with imaging, such as MRI.
Injury to the pelvic bones and joints should heal within 6 months of delivery, but working with a physical therapist who specializes in the pelvic floor can help ensure proper healing while also reducing your pain and improving your function as your body recovers.
5. Muscle Dysfunction
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles located at the base of the pelvis, surrounding the vaginal, anal and urethral openings. These muscles contract in order to hold in urine, gas and feces, support your pelvic organs and stabilize your pelvic joints. They relax to empty your bladder and bowels, deliver a baby and allow for penetration during sex. If these muscles dysfunction, it can impact your bladder, bowel or sexual function.
Specifically, if your pelvic floor muscles do not effectively lengthen or relax to allow for penetration you can develop a condition called vaginismus, which is linked to pain during sex. This pain can occur whether you have had a vaginal or cesarean birth, but research shows that performing pelvic floor exercises and building coordination of this muscle group can lead to improved postpartum sexual function. Working with a pelvic floor physical therapist is a great way to rebuild control of your pelvic floor and reduce muscle-related pain during sex.
6. Vulvar Swelling
In pregnancy, the amount of blood flowing through your body increases by more than 50%. In order to accommodate this new fluid, our blood vessels dilate and more specifically, our veins will expand their capacity by 60%. For many people, their veins can take months to recover after delivery, leading to poor valve closure in the veins and increased swelling and distension.
When this swelling takes place within the pelvis and vulva, it can lead to pelvic congestion syndrome or vulvar varicosities, both conditions are commonly linked with pain during and after sex.
If you are experiencing vulvar swelling during or after pregnancy, speak with your doctor about potential management strategies, depending on your diagnosis and severity of symptoms, working with a physical therapist who specializes in the pelvic floor may be a potential resource for symptom reduction.
Pain with sex is never normal and should never be ignored. Talk to your primary care provider or OBGYN about what you’re experiencing — they should be able to help determine the potential source of your pain. No matter the cause, they will likely recommend that you work with a pelvic floor physical therapist who can support you in restoring your sexual function and help you feel good in your body. (1,542 words)
- [9 Pelvic Floor Exercises for Stress Incontinence – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/9-pelvic-floor-exercises-for-stress-incontinence/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, and pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage. Visit Origin to watch videos of the exercises shared below.
If you’ve ever experienced an accidental bladder leak, you know it’s enough to make you think twice before taking your turn on the backyard trampoline or doing jumping jacks during boot camp. It can start to feel hard to trust your bladder and you may even wonder if you have urinary incontinence.
Urinary incontinence, in the simplest form, is any type of urine leakage, whether that be drops, dribbles, or a full drainage. We’ll get more into the details of what that all looks like in a bit, but rest assured, wearing panty liners, avoiding high-impact exercise, and panicking at every sneeze doesn’t have to be your regular way of life.
Keep reading to find out how to tell if you have urinary incontinence, what a diagnosis looks like, and how pelvic floor therapy can help stop leaking for good.
If you have stress urinary incontinence — aka you pee a little (or a lot) when you sneeze, cough, jump, or otherwise experience an increase in pressure inside your abdomen — you know that even small leaks can be a big deal. Stress incontinence impacts everything from your social life and sexual health to your mood and productivity at work. That's why it's better to treat leaks sooner, rather than later.
Pelvic floor physical therapy is a recommended treatment option for stress urinary incontinence, for a few great reasons:


Unlike other treatments, pelvic floor PT is very low-risk.


The benefits of pelvic floor PT are strongly supported by evidence.


Pelvic floor exercises not only lead to lasting resolution of symptoms, they also reduce their negative impact on your quality of life.


If you're dealing with stress urinary incontinence (SUI), don't hesitate to come see us at Origin. Our women's health PTs specialize in treating bladder issues and can help you ditch leaks for good. In the meantime, we're here with nine of our favorite pelvic floor exercises for SUI.
Stress urinary incontinence & your pelvic floor
Before we jump to the moves, let's quickly review some key details about SUI and the role your pelvic floor plays in preventing bladder leaks.
Stress urinary incontinence is the involuntary leakage of urine that happens during activities that cause increased pressure or stress on your bladder. SUI is the most common form of urinary incontinence and impacts approximately 38% of people born with vaginal anatomy.
When SUI occurs, it's most often because there is a glitch in what researchers call the “stress continence control system.” This system involves your pelvic floor muscles as well as the connective tissues and fascia that support your bladder. Ideally, all three of these work together in response to a sudden rise in intra-abdominal pressure — i.e. when you cough or sneeze — to prevent a bladder leak.
Basically, the pelvic floor muscles, connective tissues, and fascia exert pressure around the urethra (the bladder opening) to pinch it closed. Think: Stepping on a hose to stop the flow of water.
To do this efficiently and effectively, your pelvic floor muscles must:


Be strong enough to resist increased pressure


Be quick enough to provide extra resistance with sudden rises in pressure, like when you trip or sneeze


Be coordinated enough to unconsciously or consciously contract when needed, like when you lift a heavy box


Have enough endurance to provide constant support


Be flexible enough to release fully when it's time to empty your bladder


If your pelvic floor muscles are injured, underused, or otherwise not working properly, they'll fall short in one or more of these areas and you'll experience leaks.
9 pelvic floor exercises for stress urinary incontinence
The following 9 moves are great examples of exercises that are typically included in a PT treatment plan for SUI. The goal of doing exercises like these is to increase the strength, speed, coordination, endurance, and flexibility of your pelvic floor muscles to guard against leaks. The best exercise routine for you is one that's designed by a pelvic floor PT for your unique body and symptoms.
1. Kegels
We’ll start with the most basic pelvic floor exercise, aka the kegel. It’s not the most exciting exercise, but it will help you regain a foundation of control over your muscles, which you can then build on.
Even basic kegels are actually quite tricky to do, so it's important to follow the instructions carefully.
Stand with feet hip distance apart.


Inhale deeply, allowing air to fill the bottom of your lungs. Feel your lower abdomen, your low back and your pelvic floor gently stretch outwards with your breath.


As you exhale, contract your pelvic floor muscles into a kegel, feeling your pelvic floor lift up and in and your belly button move towards your spine. Try to avoid contracting your glutes or abdominals — really focus on moving your pelvic floor muscles.


Relax your pelvic floor during the next inhale.


Not connecting with your pelvic floor? Feel like you can't move it at will. That's actually fairly normal — and a great reason to see a pelvic floor PT.
2. The Knack
If you have stress incontinence, you've likely lost some pelvic floor muscle coordination. By consciously practicing the timing of your pelvic floor contractions, you can help them synch up again.
Lie flat on your back with your legs straight and arms at your sides.


Inhale and fill your belly with air, keeping your pelvic floor relaxed as you feel your belly expand outward.


Contract your pelvic floor muscles in a kegel as you exhale, feeling your belly draw in towards your spine.


Continue to hold the kegel and cough once. Try not to lose the strength of your kegel for the duration of the cough. In addition to a cough, you can try a loud "shh" sound.


Relax your pelvic floor.


To challenge your endurance, try to hold your kegel for several coughs or "shh's" in a row.
3. Diaphragmatic Breathing
Don't let the simplicity of this move fool you — it's another foundational exercise that can boost essential muscle coordination and flexibility, as well as improve mindfulness. To learn about all the benefits of diaphragmatic breathing, check out this article.
Lie on your back or side. You can use pillows to support your head or knees.


Place your top hand on the side or front of your belly.


Inhale, feeling your abdomen expand outward and into your hand, as well as your pelvis and back, as your lungs fill with air. With each inhale, imagine your pelvic floor lengthening like the bottom of a balloon as it inflates with air.


Exhale, allowing your abdomen to gently release back towards your spine. Try to keep your chest still as you breathe — place a hand on your chest to help you see how much movement is happening there throughout this exercise.


4. Diaphragm Release
If coordinating your breath with your pelvic floor movement feels difficult, try this gentle diaphragm release first.
Sit in a chair with feet planted greater than hip distance apart.


Place your palms against the front of your ribs so that your fingertips are able to curl around the bottom edge of your ribcage a few inches away from your sternum on either side.


Take a deep breath into your chest, as you feel your chest lift, bring your palms away from your ribs and your wrists forward, pressing your fingertips into the space just beneath your ribs.


Keep your fingers in this position and, as you exhale, lean your torso forward until the backs of your hands can rest on your thighs. Your hands should be able to relax in this position but continue to keep your fingers firmly positioned towards the inside of your ribcage.


Take a deep breath, feeling your diaphragm push into your fingertips.


As you exhale, relax and lower your torso even further towards your lap, allowing your abdomen to soften and lean into your fingers.


Repeat this breathing pattern for several breaths before returning to an upright seated position.


5. Kneeling Hip Extensions
You’ll definitely feel this move in your abdominals and glutes but don’t forget about your pelvic floor. This exercise hits all of the muscles involved in your core in a way that is super functional — and similar to how you would be using them during everyday activities.
Sit on the floor with both knees bent and feet flat on the ground hip distance apart.


Move both feet so they are greater than hip-width apart while keeping your knees bent at 90 degrees. If using a yoga mat, bring your feet to the outside edges of the mat.


Keep your feet in this position as you slowly lower one knee down and out, towards the floor.


Allow your other knee to fall in the same direction, lowering to the floor in front of you. Both knees should still form a 90-degree angle in this pose, reposition your feet as needed to keep this angle.


As you lower your legs, turn your hips and chest to face the same direction as your leading leg.


Squeeze your glutes to lift your hips off of the floor into a kneeling position. Avoid using your arms throughout this exercise, consider holding a weight for added difficulty.


Slowly and with control, lower your hips back to the floor.


Repeat this motion towards the opposite direction.


Where you'll feel it: In your legs and core as you move back and forth from sitting to standing.
6. Suitcase Walking
You’d be surprised how often you find yourself needing the strength built in this exercise during everyday life, like when you’re trying to take the groceries in the house in just one trip, or struggling with a mid-tantrum toddler on your way out of Target. This exercise will not only help you gain deep core stability, but it will teach you how to control intrabdominal pressure during similar tasks.
Start by standing with your feet hip distance apart and a weight or kettlebell placed on the ground by the outside of your foot.


Bend your knees and sit back into your hips to grab the weight with the hand that is closest to it, like a suitcase.


Exhale as you lift the weight, squeezing your glutes to return to standing.


Holding the weight by your side like a suitcase, begin to walk forward, keeping your body tall and shoulders level. Avoid holding your breath or leaning despite the added weight.


Exhale as you sit back into your hips and bend your knees to place the weight back on the floor.


7. Hopping
As your pelvic floor gains some strength back, it can help to add some impact to your exercise routine to mimic some of the exercises that may cause your stress incontinence.
Begin in a standing position with both feet flat on the ground.


Bend your knees and jump, lifting both feet off the ground.


Land softly on just one foot.


Continue to jump up and down on one foot for several repetitions. Try to land softly and quietly, with a slight bend in your knee.


8. Squat
Next, it's time to slow things down a bit. A squat allows you to practice coordinating your muscle engagement with your breath and an increase in intra-abdominal pressure. It also improves strength and endurance in your hips and legs.
Stand with your feet hip distance apart.


Pull your belly button in towards your spine to activate your core.


Keeping your core engaged, push your hips back and bend your knees as though lowering into a chair. Try to keep your knees directly above your ankles and feel your weight shift into your heels.


Squeeze your glutes as you straighten your legs to return to standing.


Where you'll feel it: Your glutes and thighs.
9. Stepping Lunge
Another great exercise that is super practical for many every day scenarios that may cause stress incontinence is this stepping lunge, but it is definitely one that you won’t likely see until you are further along in pelvic floor rehabilitation.
Stand with feet flat on the ground and hip-width apart.


Take a large step forward, falling into a forward lunge position with your shoulders, hips, and the knee and foot of your back leg forming a straight line. Do not allow your front knee to move forward past your toes.


Push off of your front foot to bring your leg back to its starting position.


PT-Loved Products for Stress Incontinence
While you're strengthening your pelvic floor with these exercises, having the right protection can help you stay active and confident during your recovery journey. Our physical therapists often recommend supportive products to complement your treatment plan:
Hazel’s High & Dry Briefs: These innovative disposable briefs are a game-changer for managing stress incontinence. Designed to look and feel like real underwear, Hazel Briefs provide discreet protection without the bulky feel of traditional incontinence products. Their super-absorbent core handles those unexpected leaks during exercise, coughing, or sneezing, while the breathable material keeps you comfortable all day. Used alongside your personalized pelvic floor PT program, they can give you the confidence to continue exercises and daily activities that might otherwise trigger leaks.
How to get individualized PT for your pelvic floor
At Origin, we don’t mess around with stress incontinence. We know it is much more than just a bladder issue and are dedicated to quickly helping you ease your symptoms and reducing the toll it can take on your quality of life.
After thoroughly reviewing your health history and completing a pelvic floor muscle exam (we have the details on that for you here), your pelvic floor physical therapist will be able to help you build a program that is individualized to your needs. And to make it even easier — and more affordable — we offer nationwide virtual care, have 20 in-person locations throughout 8 states, and accept major insurance plans.
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- [The Real Deal with Bladder Leaks – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-bladder-leaks/index.html): This article is part of a special series in collaboration with our friends at Origin offering Pelvic Floor & Whole Body Physical Therapy for pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and more.
Explore our complete resource collection covering leaks, painful sex, pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, and more. You'll find expert advice, practical solutions, and product recommendations to help you feel confident and comfortable in your body at every stage.
If you’ve ever experienced an accidental bladder leak, you know it’s enough to make you think twice before taking your turn on the backyard trampoline or doing jumping jacks during boot camp. It can start to feel hard to trust your bladder and you may even wonder if you have urinary incontinence.
Urinary incontinence, in the simplest form, is any type of urine leakage, whether that be drops, dribbles, or a full drainage. We’ll get more into the details of what that all looks like in a bit, but rest assured, wearing panty liners, avoiding high-impact exercise, and panicking at every sneeze doesn’t have to be your regular way of life.
Keep reading to find out how to tell if you have urinary incontinence, what a diagnosis looks like, and how pelvic floor therapy can help stop leaking for good.
What is urinary incontinence?
Urinary incontinence (UI) is the involuntary leakage of urine from your bladder. That means any amount — from a single drop to a bladder full. It’s incontinence if leaks happen all the time or hardly ever. UI tends to affect women more often and can occur at any age.There are different types of urinary incontinence and each is defined by the circumstances surrounding why the leakage happened, as well as the problem causing the bladder dysfunction. The most common types of incontinence treated by pelvic floor physical therapists are stress, urge, and mixed urinary incontinence.
Stress Urinary Incontinence
“This type of leakage is what most people think of when they have incontinence,” says Origin Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Dr. Ashley Rawlins, PT, DPT. “Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is when your leakage occurs after mechanical pressure is put on your bladder.” Common triggers for stress urinary incontinence are coughing, laughing, or sneezing. “These are examples of activities that increase intra-abdominal pressure,” Rawlins explains. “When we cough, laugh or sneeze the pressure in our abdominal area increases, and that pressure compresses the bladder, essentially pushing urine out.”

Common triggers for stress urinary incontinence are coughing, laughing, or sneezing.

Beyond coughing and sneezing, other stress events can include certain exercises and physical activities, like jumping rope, high-impact cardio, and heavy lifting. When your pelvic floor muscles aren't strong or coordinated enough to counteract the pressure these activities put on your bladder, you're likely to spring a leak.According to the National Association for Continence, 1 in 3 people women experience stress urinary incontinence, but that number increases to one in two for those over the age of 65. Some of the more common risk factors for developing stress urinary incontinence are pregnancy and vaginal childbirth, menopause, having had a hysterectomy, or frequently engaging in high-impact activities.
Urge Urinary Incontinence
This type of incontinence is leakage of a much different tune, occurring after you have a sudden and intense urge to urinate. A common example of urge urinary incontinence (UUI) is when you desperately need to pee just as you arrive home and put your keys in the door, and you're unable to hold it long enough to make it to the bathroom.Urge urinary incontinence is commonly a result of overactivity in the muscle that controls the bladder, but may also be caused by trigger points in a neighboring muscle, which can lead to a feeling of urgency.
Mixed Urinary Incontinence
Last comes mixed urinary incontinence (MUI), which is exactly what it sounds like: You have a mixture of leakage as a result of both urgency and stress. The factors that cause this kind of leakage can be a combination of those that lead to stress urinary incontinence and urge urinary incontinence.
How do I know if I have urinary incontinence?
“Technically any amount of leakage of urine is incontinence,” says Rawlins. “Whether you sometimes leak a drop of urine when you bust out laughing, or you leak a lot an often.”Sometimes, it can be hard to determine if you're really losing urine. You may think that some pee came out, but be unable to distinguish between urine, sweat, or discharge when you check you underwear. If you’re not sure what’s coming out, don’t hesitate to talk to a pelvic floor PT — they’re used to decoding discharge and can assess your pelvic floor for symptoms consistent with incontinence.
Do I have to treat urinary incontinence?
It's common to brush off small or infrequent bladder leaks as no big deal, but any urinary incontinence is a sign of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. "It can be a sign of pelvic floor weakness, lack of coordination, or another issue that's affecting your bladder or urethra," says Rawlins. And, if left untreated, urinary incontinence is likely to get worse.

If left untreated, urinary incontinence is likely to get worse.

"Small leaks tend to become bigger problems with each pregnancy and delivery (belly or vaginal), with continued high-impact activity or heavy lifting, and as we age,” says Rawlins. "Changes that occur with menopause can also exacerbate incontinence."While it's never too late to treat incontinence, it's better to address it earlier rather than later.
Diagnosing & treating urinary incontinence
If you have bladder leaks, it is important to figure out why you are leaking. Understanding which type of incontinence you have will help to determine the steps needed to help make you dry again. Not everyone with urinary incontinence will get better with kegels, but you can get better with treatment that is specific to your needs. Talk to your primary care physician, gynecologist, or OB. They’ll be able to determine if it’s stress induced, urgency, or mixed, and ideally, recommend a pelvic physical therapist who can help determine how the muscles are impacting your bladder function.

Not everyone with urinary incontinence will get better with kegels.

And please, don’t be embarrassed! Rawlins often sees lack of education and shame as a major barrier to folks getting pelvic floor PT help. “People first need to know that UI isn't something they have to put up with,” she says, “and then they need to know that not only are they in wonderful company, since it's so common and leakage isn't something to be ashamed about, but there are also highly trained pelvic PTs out there with all of the tools that are needed to help.”Other options for working with UI include certain medications and surgery. Rawlins stresses, though, that pevlic floor physical therapy should be the first line of defense. “It's safe, effective, and has little to no side effects, and is well tolerated by most,” she says. One 2017 study found that for female patients with mixed urinary incontinence and overactive bladders, pelvic floor muscle training significantly improved patients symptoms in almost all areas — urinary loss, overactive bladder symptoms, and self-reported overall quality of life.
How can pelvic PT help with urinary incontinence?
If the leakage is related to pelvic floor muscle dysfunction (not neurological, such as related to MS or another disease), pelvic floor PT can help remedy the muscular imbalance in the pelvis and work with you to find better habits and strategies to support your bladder function.Perhaps your muscles aren’t contracting and supporting at the right time? Then your PT will work with you on optimizing the coordination and function of your pelvic floor. If the muscles are too underused and weakened, we work on strengthening.Pretty commonly, people think of treating urinary incontinence with kegels, which is a pelvic floor exercise — think resistance training for your pelvic floor where you contract and relax it. That’s great for folks who have underused or under active pelvic floor muscles, but in some cases, like younger athletes affected by urinary incontinence, their muscles are so overactive that they need to improve their pelvic floor muscle range of motion, and not constantly be contracted to then restore strength and function.
PT-Loved Products to Help You Stay Confident While Treating Incontinence
While you're working on addressing the root causes of urinary incontinence with a pelvic floor therapist, you still need practical solutions for daily life. Having the right products can help you maintain confidence and comfort during your treatment journey. We love Hazel's High & Dry Briefs, disposable briefs for leaks. Unlike traditional incontinence products, their Briefs look and feel like regular underwear while providing reliable absorption for light to moderate leakage. The moisture-wicking technology helps keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day, whether you're at work, exercising, or socializing.
What can I expect from a pelvic PT appointment?
Rest assured, Rawlins says, pelvic physical therapists are in your corner. “We are dedicated to helping those with bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction, and hope that embarrassment or shame isn’t getting in your way of seeking help,” she says. “It can be really hard to feel heard and understood when you have pelvic floor symptoms, let alone find effective treatment.” Thankfully, there are physical therapists, like those at Origin, who have gone the extra step to get trained in how to work with the pelvic floor and get you back to your fully-functioning self.At a pelvic floor PT session, it’s never about seeing the anatomy; it’s about examining someone’s muscles based on their symptoms. The first step to checking out the pelvic floor muscles, which can be done through the vagina or anus. Alternately, there are external approaches to evaluating muscle dysfunction, or your PT can teach you how to examine your own muscles through anatomic models and drawings. Origin uses this last practice during their virtual appointments and patients can find self-evaluations to be very empowering. You'll then work with your PT to come up with a treatment plan and goals that work for you.Beyond kegels, some pelvic floor PT exercises include core, hip, and back strengthening exercises, breathing techniques, yoga stretches, and manual therapy.
3 bathroom habits that contribute to urinary incontinence
Other ways PT can help with urinary incontinence is by breaking any bad habits you may have garnered over the years, like pushing to pee (guilty!) or purposefully limiting water intake. “We develop all these habits and tricks that we think are helping, or are maybe helping just a bit, but are actually sabotaging our bladder health,” says Rawlins.
Cutting water intake
You may think that drinking less water will limit the amount of leakage you have, but it may actually be making leakage worse. When you drink less, your urine becomes more concentrated, which may be more irritating to your bladder, which can lead to leakage.
Pushing to pee
Another habit that has trained your bladder in a negative way is forcing yourself to pee or pushing the pee out, rather than relaxing your pelvic floor muscles and peeing properly. Pushing may make it more difficult to fully empty your bladder, and pushing may even strain your pelvic floor.
Going “just in case”
This is when you make yourself go, just in case you get busy or don’t know where the next clean bathroom will be (zoom meetings, going to a store, etc.). With this habit, you are impacting your bladder’s flexibility and training your brain to empty your bladder more often.Your bladder is like a balloon and its only job is to expand and empty. If you aren't letting it expand, you’ll have to go more often. Rawlins does point out that yes, there are times when you need to try to pee even if you don’t actually have to! Hitting the toilet on a road trip when the next bathroom is miles and miles away? Please go, just don’t make the “just in case” peeing a daily habit.
Get Relief From Urinary Incontinence
Ready to take action with your bladder? At Origin, PT for urinary incontinence can be done virtually and privately (no showing of parts on Zoom!). You’ll work with licensed PTs to start creating a plan to get your life back on track and help you become free of leaks once again. (2,189 words)
- [The Real Deal with Postpartum – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-postpartum/index.html): 
Congratulations on your new baby! While the focus is often on your beautiful newborn, it's important to remember that you're going through a major transition, too. The first week postpartum is an intense period of adjustment, recovery, and, let’s be honest, a bit of a rollercoaster. Here’s what to expect during those first seven days and how to take care of yourself while caring for your newborn.
Your Body is in Recovery Mode
After delivery, your body is working hard to heal and adjust. Whether you had a vaginal birth or a C-section, there’s no denying that your body has gone through a significant event. Here’s what you can expect:
Bleeding (Lochia)
You’ll experience heavy bleeding similar to a very heavy period, especially in the first few days. This is your body’s way of shedding the lining of your uterus. To manage this, it’s helpful to have heavy-duty pads on hand. Disposable underwear, like Hazel’s High & Dry Briefs, are a lifesaver – they’re comfortable, convenient, and take the worry out of leaks.
Cramping
You might feel cramping as your uterus begins to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size. These cramps, known as “afterpains,” can be especially noticeable during breastfeeding.
So, What Even Is It?
The pelvic floor is a diamond-shape (how apropos) group of muscles that sits at the base of your pelvis where the bladder, rectum, and uterus come together – like a sling supporting those organs!
Swelling
Swelling in your legs and feet is common, especially if you received IV fluids during labor. Elevating your feet and staying hydrated can help ease the swelling.
Emotional Ups and Downs
Your hormones are in flux, and that can lead to a whirlwind of emotions. One moment you may feel elated, the next, overwhelmed. This is completely normal. The “baby blues” can affect up to 80% of new mothers and it usually peaks around the third or fourth day postpartum.
“I remember this day vividly. It was right around the time my milk came in. My friend had warned me this was the worst day for her. So as my husband held me, I was sobbing and shaking and saying.. I made it to the next phase… It was a complete out-of-body experience. 1 or 2 days later, I was fine!” - Aubrey, Hazel Co-Founder
“For my second, everything was going great with the baby and my physical recovery but I just felt off. My toddler was driving me nuts (much much more than usual). I didn’t know what would happen if I said ‘I think I have postpartum depression’ out loud. You know what?! Nothing bad happened! I sent my doc a message and got some help.” - Melissa, Co-Founder Villie
Baby blues goes away, but if you are still feeling off after a few days check out Postpartum Support International, this org has a free hotline (and textline!) 
Stay Connected
Talk about how you’re feeling with someone you trust, whether it’s your partner, a friend, or a healthcare provider. If you’re feeling more than just a little down, don’t hesitate to seek help—postpartum depression is common, and support is available.
Take a Breath of Fresh Air
You should not be moving around much in this first week. It’s seriously a great time to go nowhere. But never underestimate the power of fresh air. So open a window, or sit on a balcony or a porch.
Know When You Need Professional Help
If your thoughts don’t feel right, or just off in a way you can’t articulate, reach out to your doctor or call the Postpartum Support International hotline at 1-800-944-4773. They’ll know how to listen and help.
Feeding Your Baby Is Hard—But It Gets Easier
Feeding your newborn is one of the biggest challenges in the first week, whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or doing a combination of both. This first week, babies need to eat around the clock every 2-3 hours. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Breastfeeding
It might take a few days for your milk to come in. During this time, your baby is getting colostrum, a nutrient-rich “first milk.” Latching can be tricky, so don’t hesitate to ask for help from a lactation consultant. These visits are usually covered by insurance so ask your pediatrician, OB and local mom friends (or group) for recommendations. One good resource if you just want to read is KellyMom.
Formula Feeding
If you’re formula feeding, it’s about finding the right formula and getting into a feeding routine that works for you and your baby. Learn more here.
Combo Feeding
Well this one is easy - it’s when you do any combination of both breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Learn more here.
Self-Care is Baby Care
Taking care of yourself is essential. Recruit others to take care of you too. This first week is not just about the baby. You are special too.
Get Rest
“Sleep when the baby sleeps” is a common piece of advice, but it’s pretty silly and not always doable. The first week often feels like a blur of feedings, diaper changes, and trying to catch a few moments of rest. Prioritize sleep whenever you can and don’t hesitate to ask for help. 
“Hey, can you hold the baby while I go take a shower and a nap?”
Set Up a Support System
Whether it's family, friends, or a postpartum doula, don’t hesitate to lean on your village for meals, household chores, or even just holding the baby while you take a nap. Support makes a world of difference. Here are 50+ ways you can ask for help.
Start a Baby Page by Villie
Villie is on a mission to help you create a village around your baby. Think of it as an easy way to communicate with your loved ones, privately share your photos, registries and events and you can ask for help. Oh, and there are games! Check it out, it’s free!
Self-Care Essentials
Your recovery is just as important as your baby’s care. Here are a few tips to help you feel more like yourself during this time:
Disposable Underwear
As mentioned earlier, disposable and leakproof underwear like Hazel's High & Dry Briefs are a postpartum must-have. They’re designed for both comfort and convenience, giving you one less thing to worry about in those first few days.
Perineal Care
If you had a vaginal delivery, you may experience soreness or stitches. Use a peri bottle with warm water to clean the area after using the bathroom, and consider using witch hazel pads to soothe any discomfort.
C-Section Care
If you had a c-section, you’re probably numb and starting to feel sore. Check out a belly binder to help you feel snug and supported.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Keep water and healthy snacks nearby, especially if you’re breastfeeding, as you’ll likely feel hungrier than usual. And keep those snacks near where you feed.
Eat warm foods like oatmeal, slow cooked meat and lasagne or sign up for a service like Chiyo.
Welcome to the Mom Club!
Postpartum, especially the first week, is a time of immense change, and it’s okay to feel a mix of emotions. Take care of yourself, lean on your support system, and equip yourself with essentials. Focus on your recovery while bonding with your new baby—you’re doing an amazing job. (1,361 words)
- [Ever-Evolving Woman | Renata Joy – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/ever-evolving-woman-renata-joy/index.html): Renata Joy is proof that we all have the power to control our own destiny (well, to a certain point, at least). The mother/grandmother/entrepreneur grew up in a family where everyone was unwell: Her mom had polio, her dad had kidney failure, and her siblings were always sick. She told us, 

“It wasn’t their fault – no one taught them how to live a healthy lifestyle. They were not active and didn’t eat well. It scared me shitless from a very young age, and I knew that wasn’t the path I wanted for myself.”

She started her professional career as a TV producer and made the leap after 20 successful years to her true calling: wellness expert. She coaches women on taking control over their health and making them feel young, strong, and sexy at every stage of life.
She got candid with us about facing the new reality of her partner receiving a terminal prognosis and shared her self-care tips for feeling comfortable and confident in your body at any age. Meet one of the most self-aware, awe-inspiring women we’ve had the pleasure of meeting in a long while: Renata Joy. 
The Backstory
When I was 6 years old, my older brother – whom I adored – told me I was going to work in television. So I did exactly what he told me I was supposed to do for 20 years. I liked it and was very successful at it, but I lacked passion for it. From a young age, I studied everything I could about living a healthy lifestyle to avoid living like my family did, obviously having no idea wellness would become a thing so many years later. When I decided to leave TV and start a lifestyle brand, no one was surprised.
True Vision
Pure Joy Wellness is devoted to women taking charge of their health. We’re all going to age, and we’re all afraid of it, but it’s going to happen regardless. What you can control is how it affects your quality of life. Women typically come to me when they’re noticing signs of aging and don’t like how they look or don’t feel good about themselves. I teach them proper exercise, nutrition, and skincare, so they feel confident as it happens. 
How To Feel Your Best

Change your mindset. Don’t compare yourself to other people. Instead, look at what it will take for you to be healthy – that looks different for everyone.
You need to move everyday. I’m a big proponent of walking because everyone can do it.
Make sure you’re getting enough protein, healthy fats, fiber, fresh fruits and veggies, and not consuming too many calories. 

The Tough Stuff
My first husband passed away in a car accident when my son was 4 (he’s now 47), and I had to raise him alone – that was devastating. I didn’t date for like 20 years because I didn't want my son to feel like someone else was coming before him. At the end of 2021, the person I’ve been with for the last 16 years was diagnosed with terminal gallbladder cancer, so I’m dealing with the fact that someone I love and cherish is going to die. It’s made me realize that when it comes to aging, we don't talk enough about death. At this point in life, people die, that’s just reality – I have to wrap my head around that. How do I cope with it? It’s very fresh, so I don’t have any advice yet, but I know it's a subject that we need to talk about more.
Better With Age…
For me, my understanding of who I am as a person gets better with age. I know my wants, needs, desires… I’ve come into my own power more. I’m not afraid to say what I need – I used to struggle with that when I was younger.
Future Is Bright
I’m looking forward to expanding the Pure Joy Wellness brand. I have a walking challenge to get 1 million women to move 30 minutes a day for 30 days, and I’m very excited about that. Long-term, I want to get them moving every single day because it’s so important as you get older. And, of course, my ultimate goal is to get women to understand that their health should be their #1 priority. 
What “Ever-Evolving” Means To Her
For me, it means understanding who I am and that I’m constantly changing every day. My career revolves around helping women evolve. I did a photoshoot with some women recently who had never had their hair and makeup professionally done before – watching them blossom into these confident beings was really awesome! We all have areas where we can grow and learn, and I love teaching women how to do that.
Self Care

I’m a skincare fanatic. I love it. I get a facial once a month.
Exercise - I have it in my calendar daily.
I meditate every morning. When you quiet yourself, it gives you the opportunity to hear yourself.
I journal. Journaling is kind of like a history lesson on yourself, and I’ve been doing it since 6th grade. I love looking back and seeing how far I've come.
It’s so important to surround yourself with people that care about you.

Fill in The Blank: Sex gets __________ as you get older because ___________ .
Sex gets better as I get older because I understand how to please myself. And I love pleasing myself. Until you understand how to please yourself, no one else can please you. Everyone should understand the art of masturbation, and women sometimes shy away from it with shame. Masturbation is exercise! Every woman should be comfortable with her own body and understand what pleases them. 
Every Woman Needs…
I love Tabu’s sexual kit. It helped me with vaginal moisture and feeling comfortable with pleasing myself. (1,123 words)
- [The Hazel Edit: Women Who Inspire Us](/content/blogs/musings/the-hazel-edit-women-who-inspire-us/index.html): In honor of International Women’s Day, we dedicate this month’s Hazel Edit to some modern mavens who are seriously motivating us to embrace where we are, seek solutions to our struggles, take chances, and surround ourselves with things that bring pure joy.

Denise Boomkens
WHO: A photographer with a penchant for authenticity, Denise Boomkens has mastered the art of finding beauty in the perfectly imperfect. 
WHAT: Her site is full of stunning photos and the accompanying stories of really awesome women who are all over 40. Her whole goal is to inspire with coolness towards aging, and she’s totally nailing it.
WHY: Her new book features portraits and interviews with 100 badass women and serves as a brilliant rule book for aging happily and healthily. 
Maryjane Fahey
WHO: Maryjane Fahey has a way with words, especially when it comes to aging: “I want to see fear-mongering about age become a thing of the past in my lifetime – let roaring into age prevail.”
WHAT: Wonder what aging looks like when you don’t give a f*#k? Glorious Broads is it. And it’s gorgeous and full of confidence, courage, grace, passion, sexiness, power, wisdom, worldliness, and wit. 
WHY: Her real talk is damn refreshing. And motivating. And really funny!
Stephanie Hall
WHO: Stephanie Hall named her line of stunning glassware after her grandmother Estelle, who she spent many-a-days hunting for similar treasures in antique stores in Holly Hill, South Carolina. 
WHAT: When she tried to find colored glass pieces a few years ago and came up empty, her brand of jewel tone and pastel stunners was born. We can’t even begin to explain how much joy these beauties bring us.
WHY: Whether for yourself or someone else, they pretty much make for the perfect present. P.S. Mix and match colors is the way to go. 

Katie Couric
WHO: Reason #3,672 to love Katie Couric – this open, honest conversation about hair loss.
WHAT: The psychological effects can be devastating, especially to women, but Katie’s conversation with Dr. Jeff Donovan is full of fascinating information, from root causes (pun intended) to tips to treatments. 
WHY: Is it weird that hair loss in women wasn’t a thing 100 years ago? Yes, yes it is. According to Dr. Donovan, there is definitely something environmental at play here. 
Nina Lorenz Collins 
WHO: Nina Lorenz Collins started a Facebook group on a whim one night to talk about how old and irrelevant she was feeling at 46. 
WHAT: Turns out she wasn’t alone. The group grew and grew as the women shared and learned from each other, and next thing you know, she was writing a book (What Would Virginia Wolf Do) on the topic and turning it into a business (The Woolfer).
WHY: Last year, she merged with Revel, a community of 40+ women full of sage advice, expert-led talks, and plenty of laughs. You should totally join! 
Nikol Johnson Sanchez
WHO: After brilliant beauty expert Nikol Sanchez Johnson read the Vogue article on Hazel, she reached out about trying our products. 
WHAT: We never expected (and are so humbled by) this thoughtful YouTube video, but we’re eternally grateful for her (totally unpaid) endorsement and for helping to normalize leakage.
WHY: She’s the definition of women supporting women.  
Linda Lautenberg & Judy Schoenberg
WHO: Linda Lautenberg reinvented her career after an 18-year break in the workforce, and Judy Schoenberg made a midlife pivot from executive to entrepreneur. They both know firsthand how daunting a career transition can be when you’re over 40. 
WHAT: They started EvolveMe to make the process easier for the rest of us. From training and tools to connections and community, they support you every step of the way through a professional pivot or return to work. 
WHY: Unfortunately ageism, gender discrimination, racism, and pay inequity are still rampant. Let them help you navigate finding your next career chapter. 
  (788 words)
- [The Hazel Edit: In The Mood For Love](/content/blogs/musings/the-hazel-edit-valentine-s-day-gift-guide/index.html):  
Welcome to The Hazel Edit, a monthly series with a very simple mission: to inspire and delight you with the things we're watching, wearing, gifting, following, listening to... all of it!
Given it’s February, we’re dedicating The Hazel Edit to everybody’s favorite Hallmark holiday – but don’t eyeroll just yet! When you take away the prix-fixe meals, the baby’s breath, and the mylar heart balloons, it’s just all about celebrating love – and who doesn’t love love? 
It’s always a good time to treat yourself (or someone else). 
Get Stoned (In the Best Way)
The Sex Stone brings lubrication, warmth, and arousal to the bedroom in the form of a plant-based moisturizing massage stone you’ll proudly display on your nightstand. And, yes, it melts on contact. And, no, it isn’t the least bit sticky. (In stock here.)
All The Feels
A truly special memoir, Nobody Will Tell You This But Me is a front row seat to four generations of women and the special bonds between them. It’ll make you howl with laughter, ugly cry, and everything in between – the kind of love story anyone can get behind.
Wine & DineOn Valentine’s Day, this is best done at home, but make it special with a wine tasting from In Good Taste with your significant other or your best gal pals. Two full tasting flights are sure to get the house party started. 
Some Bunny Loves You
There is serious magic in Le Wand, a mini palm-size vibrator with dual stimulation in its adorable ears! Compact, mighty, and super versatile, this one checks all the boxes (pun intended).
Chocolate Dreams Are Made Of These
Loria’s Nature Chocolate Bars truly are too pretty to eat. But don’t let that stop you because they taste as good as they look!
Piece It Together
Donald Robertson’s Women Of Color puzzle has it all – entertainment, feeling of accomplishment, and work of art (because obviously you frame it once finished). 
Rose Colored Glasses
Sipping on champagne always feels festive, but it’s next level when done out of Estelle Colored Glass’ super-chic coupes. 
Cozy But Make It Cute
There’s something about the whimsical details and cheerful hues of Olivia Rubin’s flattering knitwear that just makes you feel happy (while also being super comfy). 
Fur Real
It’s the most sensitive part of your body, so give it the love it deserves. Fur Oil softens coarse pubic hair and smoothes and soothes skin down there (bye razor burn). Don’t be fooled by the name, you can use it anywhere – cuticles, split ends, cracked hands, underarms – that needs a little TLC.  (582 words)
- [Ever-Evolving Woman | Nina Lorez Collins – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/ever-evolving-woman-nina-lorez-collins/index.html): 
Nina Lorez Collins is the kind of woman who tackles life head-on – boldly, openly, and honestly. She married young, at 23, the same year she started her first successful business as a foreign scout in book publishing. She and her older husband had four children together, and soon after Collins launched a second business as a literary agent, they went through a brutal divorce, which was so rough that it involved Nina’s arrest for domestic violence. 
It was then – at age 37 and rock bottom – that she started to look inward at her complicated relationship with her own mom, a single mother and struggling writer/filmmaker/activist who poured her heart and soul into her work, leaving very little attention or presence for Nina and her younger brother. Through a lot of therapy, she could better understand her mother’s choices, forgive her for keeping her long battle with cancer a secret until two weeks before she died, and ultimately let go of her pain.
In the process, Nina discovered her own love of writing, which was critical to her healing and led to her career path as an author and entrepreneur. She told us, “If you share your vulnerability, you’ll grow from it and realize you’re not alone. I wrote this account for myself, but I feel it’s important to put that stuff out there. There’s so much shame around being a woman, and sharing something embarrassing like that, you realize ten other women have been through it too, so you feel much less alone. There’s value in making other people feel heard and understood.” 
Read on for this resilient powerhouse’s latest venture (you should definitely join), her fresh perspective on aging, and her whip-smart divorce advice.
How It Started
In 2015, I was 46 (I’m now 52), and all of a sudden I wasn’t sleeping – I was up with insomnia every night. I thought there was something seriously wrong because I’d never had sleep issues. Then I finally put together that it was perimenopause. 
I had children young, so my girlfriends were older, but no one had told me about this. When I tried to talk about it, they weren't very helpful, nor was my doctor. I was in a hotel room one night and wanted to talk about how old and irrelevant I was feeling, so I created a Facebook group – What Would Virginia Woolf Do? (aka The Woolfer) – on a whim. It was dark humor: Should we wander in the river with stones in our pockets? I invited 20 of my funniest, savviest friends. The first post was about trying on clothes at Madewell with my two teenage daughters and how we were all the same size, but they looked so different in the clothing – I wanted to talk about that. 
On To Something
It was a lark, but it just grew and grew and became the most organic work experience of my life. The women were so funny and interesting, and we were learning so much from each other. For three years, I resisted turning it into something. Instead I wrote a book, aptly named What Would Virginia Woolf Do?, based on the whole experience, thinking the group would wind down by the time I finished. It wrote itself, which was a sign the whole thing had legs. When the book came out in 2018, the group was at 30,000 women. I just couldn't walk away. In an effort to turn it into a business, we left Facebook and turned it into a subscription model with both online and live events. We got 6,000 women to come with us and started creating regional groups across the country and subgroups in categories like Money and Parenting. 
How It’s Going
I set out to find a buyer for The Woolfer because I couldn't grow it without more resources and didn’t want to raise VC money. I wanted to keep doing the parts I love and let someone else do the things I don’t. 
This summer we merged with Revel, a tech meet-up platform for women over 50. The two founders are women in their early 30s out of Harvard Business School, who were watching the VC world and wondering why no one was paying attention to this audience. I immediately loved them and their technology, and we additionally built the Facebook-like “groups” feature where women can come together around common intrerests and chat online. So it’s now both an events platform and a community platform, and a great vehicle for women who are wanting new connection, to learn new things, or even to build a following. We’re currently at ,11,000+ members all over the country, and the goal is to grow into the destination for women 40+, where we can talk, meet, share info, and probably ultimately shop. 
Wakey Wakey
I get up around 8am, peruse social media, catch up on member activity, and read the news. I then walk Strudel the Poodle (requisite Covid dog), and hopefully exercise online with my OlaKaOla strength training group. If I don’t do that, I’ll sometimes do yoga with my boyfriend. I often use mornings to do work for the Brooklyn Public Library, where I’m honored to serve as board chair, since most of my Revel colleagues are on California time. At Revel, I’m in charge of partnerships, programming, and content, so I’m constantly talking to and looking for interesting writers and experts. 
Best Divorce Advice


Divorce is so unimaginable when you’re conceiving it. I thought about it for about 10 years and finally had this moment where I thought, If I stay I know what it will be like, and if I leave there is the possibility that it will be so much better. We have so many more chapters than we are aware of. 

Be realistic about what you’re walking into financially – what your expenses are and what you’re going to need. Many women are embarrassed to ask for money, but doing a basic budget so you know what you spend and what you’ll need is so important.

On Having An Empty Nest
I have four kids (21,23,23, 27) – one in LA and three in Washington, D.C. finishing college and grad school. They’re still finding their way, so we talk a lot about job issues, break-ups, life. At 52 with my kids out of the house, I have this incredible sense of freedom, and I am genuinely loving working really hard.
Positive Perspective
My mom died when she was 46, and she told me at 42 that the 40s were her best decade. I hear women say their 50s are their best decade, and I think it just keeps getting better - my relationships with my kids are better, I’m a better parent, and my romantic relationships are so much healthier. I don’t feel like I have anything to prove, and I’m much more confident and relaxed than I’ve ever been. 
What “Ever-Evolving” Means To Her
I think it’s true that we are ever-evolving. One thing you can't convey to a 25-year-old woman is how many chapters she will have. At 50, that becomes evident. I sometimes ponder how many I have left: Will I get married again? Will I get sick? How will my professional career change?
I went through infertility in my 30s, which was so hard. After three years, I had a successful pregnancy via IVF (and then another one naturally after that). Once I had that baby, my infertility chapter was behind me. When bad things happen, it’s a moment in time, but it won’t be that way forever. You move through. Everything becomes something else. That’s the great thing about getting older.
Fill in the blanks: Sex gets __________ as you get older because ___________ .
On the one hand, it gets better because we are less performative and know what we want and what works for us. But thanks to menopause, you don't have the hormones you had before, so your orgasms may not be as good, and you may not be as turned on. There’s a lot of potential to have the best sex of your life in your 40s and 50s, if you manage the sexual effects from menopause with things like lube, vibrators, and HRT. It’s all about being open.
Swears By...
I really love my HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy). I resisted it for a while, but my hot flashes got so severe I could barely function. I’m grateful for my patch, a low dose (100MG) of progesterone, and I sleep like a baby. And I love the Olaplex Essentials Kit for hair loss and brittle tresses. 
Photo by Clémence Polès at Passerby Magazine (1,575 words)
- [The Real Deal with Vaginal Dryness & Sex – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-vaginal-dryness-sex/index.html): One of the most nagging menopause symptoms (and probably the least talked about) is vaginal dryness, which leads to painful, unenjoyable sex – and nobody has time for that. So we talked to psychologist and certified sex therapist, Dr. Shannon Chavez, for her best tips and product recommendations to get things between the sheets going smoothly (literally). 

First things first: See your doctor to rule out a medical condition. And FYI, some antihistamines and antidepressants can affect dryness down there. 

And now for your sexual self-care routine...
Lube is your best friend. 
But not just any lube. Some can be drying from the chemicals. Stay away from glycerin, which can irritate and cause yeast development, imbalancing vaginal flora. You want natural ingredients. Say yes to hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, and jojoba oil. Say no to flavors, scents, and anything you can’t pronounce (we’re talking to you, phthalates).

Pro tip: Always test any lube on your hand first. Trust, if you have a reaction, you want it to be on your hand, not your vagina. 
Dr. Shannon’s Favorites
Water-based lubes are thin and absorb into the skin, which means you often have to reapply. But they are totally safe to use with condoms and silicone sex toys.


Good Clean Love’s Ultra-Sensitive is a water-based formula that moisturizes and replenishes tissue (it’s atrophy in that area that causes the pain). Added bonus, it’s female-owned.


Pjur Med Sensitive Glide is an uber-gentle formula, making it a good option for those experiencing the most sensitivity down there. 


Oil-based are more moisturizing than water-based because they absorb into the tissue, but they’re not always safe with latex products, so don’t use them if you’re using condoms.


Foria Wellness Intimate Suppositories are oil-based and contain CBD, which helps reduce discomfort from inflammation or dryness, relaxing nerve endings in the area. Plus, suppositories melt and absorb deep in the canal for extra relief. 


Silicone-based stays on the surface of the skin, acting like a barrier to the tissue, which is great for friction. Silicone-based lubes are safe to use with latex/condoms but should not be used with silicone sex toys.


K-Y True Feel is non-irritating and safe to use with condoms. With a natural feel and long-lasting formula, it’s easy to use and includes a high-quality silicone. 



So which one is right for you? It’s truly a personal preference, so try samples and see what works best. We’re partial to Kindra’s Vaginal Lotion and Maude’s Shine Lubricant.

And when to use it? Also totally a personal preference, but if you experience dryness all the time, use it daily. If it’s just with sexual activity, incorporate it into your ritual during foreplay.
Foreplay is key. 
It takes a woman’s body a minimum of 20 minutes before it’s fully aroused and ready for orgasm. (That’s a fact – don’t be afraid to use it!) Think of foreplay as the transitional period of getting into a sexual space with your partner. That can be anything from a hot bath to moody music to dancing to touching – the key is to relax (which helps minimize discomfort).
Get in a committed relationship with your vibrator. 
Think of this as a massage that gets the blood flowing and the nerve endings firing. It also creates a stronger arousal response, giving you more awareness around what feels good and what doesn’t and can help you figure out where the pain is coming from. If done over time (3-4 times a week), priming can replenish tissue, which is what’s causing the discomfort in the first place. Some women even see improvement within a week or two.
We’re big fans of Goop’s Double-Sided Wand (GP clearly did her homework on this one), Tabu’s Personal Massager, and anything by Dame. (770 words)
- [Femme Care For The Ever-Evolving Woman – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/femme-care-for-the-ever-evolving-woman/index.html): 
Welcome to Hazel. We’re so glad you’re here!
We exist to empower you – the ever-evolving woman – with groundbreaking femme care and the elevated experience you so deserve. Our little luxuries make living your best life a whole lot easier. 
For far too long, the incontinence category has made women feel ashamed and alienated (hello “adult diapers” 🙄); our products are all about boosting your confidence and making you feel like your marvelous self at every age. 

We will always keep it real. We don’t shy away from taboos. We eyeroll at the word perfect – we’re all about celebrating the perfectly imperfect.
 


So, just who is Hazel?
She’s fiercely independent and fiercely loyal to her loved ones.
She embraces her flaws and anything that comes her way.
She’s always on the hunt for adventure, excitement, and joy.
She has a signature drink, uniform, and catchphrase.
She’s resourceful, welcoming modernity with an open mind.
She laughs loudly and listens intently.
She doesn’t sweat the small stuff. Rather, she seeks a solution.
She’s a sly, knowing grin; a cheeky, sparkling wink.
She’s you. (324 words)
- [The Real Deal with Incontinence – Hazel](/content/blogs/musings/the-real-deal-with-incontinence/index.html): 
It happens to so many women. One in three to be exact (one in two over 50). I laughed so hard I almost peed my pants turns into I laughed so hard I actually peed my pants. Or you sneeze and there’s a little unwanted surprise. You can blame pregnancy, menopause, or a weakened pelvic floor (most likely a combo of the three). 
We chatted with Evelyn Hecht, an NYC-based Master Clinician of Pelvic Physical Therapy, about all things incontinence. From the physiological reasons why it happens to things that you can do to stop it (and, no, kegels are not the answer for all).  

The Definition
Simply put, incontinence is when urine leaks out when you don’t want it to. There are two types. Stress incontinence happens when you’re doing something physical – laughing, coughing, lifting weights – that increases the abdominal force pushing against the pelvic floor. When the pelvic floor lacks the ability to counteract that force, it cannot keep a tight hold around the urethra, so leakage happens. 
Urge incontinence occurs when the detrusor muscle (which facilitates the contraction of the bladder) sends a signal too soon that you “gotta go”. Usually the urge to go happens when the bladder is filled up to a size of a grapefruit,  but if the nervous system is overly sensitive, you may get the urge to go when the bladder fills to a smaller size, like a clementine. (If the nervous system is being over-sensitive, getting you in a faulty pattern of feeling the urge to go even though you just went).
The Root Of The Problem
The pelvic floor is a diamond-shaped group of muscles that sit at the base of the pelvis – from the pubic bone to the tailbone – and controls urination, bowel movements, sexual function, and core stabilization. 
Getting Help
First things first: See your doctor to rule out a medical condition. Then head to a pelvic floor therapist, who can increase its functionality through breathwork, stretches, relaxation, and core stabilization. Been doing kegels religiously and not seeing any improvement? That’s because it’s not always about strengthening those muscles to address leaking; often a person needs help softening or relaxing them instead. Everyone is different, and there is no one-size-fits-all fix for incontinence. That’s why a pelvic floor therapist can really help.
The Other Warning Signs
Women commonly present with incontinence, but oftentimes, they’re also experiencing things like painful sex, constipation, or a history of lower back pain. That’s because the pelvic floor plays a part in all of these functions! Makes total sense.
What If It’s Not That Bad?
If you don’t address incontinence, it’ll get worse over time in terms of more leaks and/or increased frequency of your urge to go. People often tend to rack up coping strategies without even realizing it: Knowing where every restroom is at the office, wearing pads “just in case”, and stopping drinking liquids after a certain time.  
Pregnancy & The Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor supports the weight of the baby during pregnancy, so it’s greatly affected by those 9 months. Add to it the fact that giving birth – whether vaginally or via C-section – is considered a trauma to the pelvic floor, and it’s no surprise so many women experience incontinence post-birth. With the right guidance, it’s entirely possible to heal it, but that education just isn’t the norm in our country, so women have to be proactive.
Menopause & The Pelvic Floor
During menopause, women lose a lot of estrogen, which is the hormone that keeps your bladder and urethra healthy. This loss can also weaken the pelvic floor. The combo results in leakage, but it doesn’t have to be like this! Physicians (specifically OBGYN’s) are well-versed in hormone replacement therapies that work for some people. If the problem still persists or that’s not an option for you (not all women are candidates for this), a pelvic floor therapist can be immensely helpful.
At-Home Help
Evelyn recently launched a pelvic healing at- home program that’s accessible completely online. Pelvic floor therapy is expensive and patients can’t always travel to see a specialist, so she came up with this step-by-step regimen that can be done on your own and in combination with your pelvic floor therapy.  Evelyn has a private Facebook support group and one-on-one Zooms to help you on your healing journey. Women who have completed the 3 month program have successfully reversed pelvic pain, lowered anxiety about pelvic issues, and decreased incontinence.  

Evelyn is offering Hazel readers a 10% discount to her Silver, Gold, or Platinum Pelvic Home Program with code PELVIC10. (911 words)
- [Clean Slate Wipes – Hazel](/content/products/clean-slate-wipes/index.html): When a nice, hot shower isn't an option, our Clean Slate Wipes always are. Discreet and flushable, they make it easy to hit refresh anytime, anywhere – down there. 15 cleansing wipe sachets With Lavender Made for sensitive skin No Synthetic Fragrances, Sulfates, Dyes, or Pthalates (624 words)

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