Prolapse, Levator Avulsions & Pessaries: What’s Actually Happening (Part 1) — with MELISSA DAVIDSON, PT
03 April 2026

Prolapse, Levator Avulsions & Pessaries: What’s Actually Happening (Part 1) — with MELISSA DAVIDSON, PT

Active Mom Podcast: Pregnancy, Postpartum, Perimenopause, Menopause & Beyond

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In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Davidson, specialist physiotherapist in pelvic health, clinical educator, and PhD, to break down some of the most misunderstood topics in pelvic health. From prolapse to levator avulsions to the role of pessaries, this conversation focuses on what’s actually happening in the body and how we can move away from fear-based messaging toward informed, empowering care.


We discuss the reality of anatomical changes, what “normal” really means, and why modification is often more helpful than restriction. Melissa shares clinical insight on assessing and managing prolapse, understanding tissue changes, and helping women feel more confident in their bodies across different life stages, including menopause.


We talk about:

-Modification over restriction

-The role and use of pessaries

-Normal anatomical changes

-The importance of proper measurements

-Tearing and levator avulsions

-HRT considerations in menopause


Time Stamps

1:00 Introduction

6:58 the reality of prolapse

17:04 the anatomy of a prolapse

21:53 understanding what “normal” means

27:45 empowering women before birth

31:15 tearing and avulsions

38:18 the perineum


CONNECT WITH CARRIE

IG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/

Website: https://carriepagliano.com


CONNECT WITH MELISSA:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissapelvicphysio/

Website: https://www.drmelissadavidson.com/


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