Helena Frawley

Helena Frawley is an Adjunct Associate Professor in Physiotherapy at Monash University and serves as Head of the Cabrini Centre for Allied Health Research and Education at Cabrini Health Limited since 2012. She earned her PhD from The University of Melbourne in 2008 and received the Fellowship of the Australian College of Physiotherapists in 2011, specializing in Continence and Women’s Health Physiotherapy.

Education:

• PhD in Physiotherapy, The University of Melbourne (2008)
• Fellowship of the Australian College of Physiotherapists (2011)

Research Interests: Dr. Frawley’s research focuses on pelvic floor muscle measurement, conservative therapies for pelvic floor dysfunction (including pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain, incontinence, and post-pelvic surgery complications from cancer). She also emphasizes translational research, particularly the implementation of clinical practice guidelines to improve patient outcomes. Her work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals, contributing to global health and well-being.

Key Projects (2013–2023):

• "Pelvic organ prolapse in women - simple treatments work" (2014–2018)
• "A teaching DVD for providers to improve continence outcomes for women in the childbearing years" (2013–2019)
• "PRF: Are pelvic floor disorders a barrier to women's participation in exercise?" (2017–2019)
• "Can pre/post-operative pelvic floor muscle training reduce dysfunction in gynaecological cancer patients?" (2018–2020)
• "Pelvic floor muscle function in women with and without breast cancer" (2020–2020)

Scientific Awards:

• Fellowship of the Australian College of Physiotherapists (2011)

Advising and Grants: While no formal advisees are listed, Dr. Frawley has led multiple research grants and projects, collaborating extensively with institutions like the Australian Physiotherapy Association and international committees. Her work highlights clinician-led approaches to guideline adherence and improving healthcare quality, particularly in stroke rehabilitation and gynaecological cancer care.

Labs/Teams: She leads the Cabrini Centre for Allied Health Research and Education, focusing on bridging research and clinical practice in allied health disciplines.