In this episode, we sit down with pelvic health physical therapist Dr. Sarahann Callaway to unpack why endometriosis is so often missed and what real, whole-person support can look like.
We explore how pelvic health physical therapy goes far beyond Kegels, focusing on bladder, bowel, and sexual function, and how endometriosis frequently shows up as cyclical symptoms, especially things like difficult bowel movements during menstruation and recurring abdominal and pelvic discomfort. We talk about why diagnosis still relies heavily on surgery, the long and frustrating route many patients face, and how social media awareness and self-advocacy are finally starting to shorten that journey.
Dr. Callaway shares how she works with endometriosis through a systems lens — examining the nervous system, sleep, stress, movement, gut health, and collaboration across specialties, from gynecology and urology to dietitians, acupuncturists, and mental health providers. We also discuss how CBD vaginal suppositories can serve as a natural, non-sedating tool to ease flare-ups, support pelvic floor relaxation, and make rehab and daily life more manageable.
In this episode, you will hear:
- What pelvic health physical therapy is and how it differs from traditional PT
- Why endometriosis is so often missed and underdiagnosed
- Key red flags
- How whole-person care addresses gut health, sleep, stress, movement, and the nervous system
- The role of surgery and realistic recovery expectations
- How CBD vaginal suppositories can support symptom relief and pelvic floor relaxation
- Building a collaborative care team
Resources from this Episode
- Guest Instagram: @justbreathept, @tri_statepelvichealthsummit
- https://www.justbreathept.com/
- https://www.tristatepelvichealthsummit.com/
- medroots.com
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36691911/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10671947/#B39-jcm-12-07071
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165614724002153
- https://endoexcellencecenter.com/how-cbd-oil-alleviates-endometriosis-discomfort/
- https://endoexcellencecenter.com/the-benefits-of-cbd-oil-for-endometriosis-management
Disclaimer:
The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. The views and opinions expressed are those of the individual participants and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of MedRoots or the medical community at large. Listeners should consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any healthcare-related decisions.
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