Breast Cancer // Category

Breast cancer and pelvic health are two significant aspects of women’s health that can intersect in various ways. Breast cancer treatment can affect your bladder, sexual and/or pelvic function. Anywhere between 50 to 70 per cent of women will experience these kinds of issues after treatment.¹

What are the known risk factors for Breast Cancer?

Risk Factors:

• Genetics: Family history, BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
• Hormonal factors: Early menstruation, late menopause, hormone replacement therapy.
• Lifestyle factors: Alcohol consumption, obesity, lack of physical activity.
• Age: Risk increases with age.

What are the most common symptoms of Breast Cancer?

Symptoms:

• Lumps in the breast or underarm
• Changes in breast shape or size
• Skin dimpling or irritation
• Nipple discharge

How is Pelvic Health connected to Breast Cancer?

Many types of breast cancer are estrogen-positive, which means higher estrogen levels in the blood can increase cancer risk. Treatment for these cancers often involves medication that blocks estrogen reception to slow or delay cancer growth. Although this approach is effective against estrogen-positive breast cancer, it can impact pelvic floor health. One common side effect is vaginal dryness, which can adversely
affect the health of the vulvar and vaginal tissues. Incontinence, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction can occur as a side effect of cancer treatments and these are conditions a pelvic health physiotherapist can help with.

How does estrogen affect the pelvic floor?

Breast cancer treatments that lead to lower levels of estrogen in the body which can induce symptoms similar to menopause. Estrogen is important for vaginal health because it keeps the tissues plump, pliable and lubricated. Hormone treatment, chemotherapy and/or ovary suppression or removal can all decrease estrogen levels in the body. Lower estrogen levels can lead to the thinning of vaginal tissues, vaginal dryness, burning, itching, an increased urge to urinate, the leakage of urine, recurring urinary tract infections, pelvic pressure, discomfort and pain with sexual activity.

How can I relieve pelvic pain during breast cancer treatment?

If you experience pelvic pain or pressure during treatment, consider these strategies to alleviate the discomfort:

• Engage in an exercise routine, provided your healthcare provider approves. Physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or yoga, can be beneficial.
• Use cold or hot compresses to help ease the pain.
• Take over-the-counter medications, but only if they are approved by your doctor.
• Perform pelvic floor exercises as recommended by your pelvic floor physiotherapist.

Where can I find a pelvic health physiotherapist in Mississauga?

We have 8 locations with pelvic health physiotherapists to help you.

• Pelvic Health Physiotherapy Etobicoke – Triangle Physiotherapy Etobicoke
• Oakville Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Oakville
• Pelvic Health Physiotherapy North York – Triangle Physiotherapy North York
• Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Mississauga
• Downtown Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy King West
• Uptown Toronto Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Lawrence Park
• Pelvic Physiotherapy Downtown Toronto – Triangle Physiotherapy Queens Quay
• Mississauga Pelvic Health – Triangle Physiotherapy Erin Mills

Understanding the connection between breast cancer and pelvic health is crucial for comprehensive care. If you’re looking for expert support, consider physiotherapy in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Toronto, Lawrence Park, Queens Quay, Erin Mills, Mississauga, or Liberty Village. Experienced physiotherapists in these areas can help address pelvic health concerns and support you through every step of your recovery journey.