WHAT IS THE PELVIC FLOOR?

Understanding Your Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor is a complex structure composed of muscles, connective tissue, nerves, and blood vessels that form the base of your pelvis.

When people refer to the pelvic floor, they are often talking about the muscles, which are organized into two main layers:

1. Superficial Layer: This layer surrounds the openings to the urethra, vagina, and anus.

2. Deeper Layer: This layer extends between your legs, running from the pubic bone to the tailbone.

These layers work together to support the pelvic organs, control bladder and bowel function, and contribute to sexual function.

PELVIC FLOOR FUNCTION

Functions of a Healthy Pelvic Floor

The pelvic floor plays a crucial role in several aspects of health and well-being, including:

• Aids in Sexual Performance: A strong and well-functioning pelvic floor can enhance sexual function and satisfaction. It supports sexual organs and contributes to sexual pleasure and response.

• Supports Pelvic Organs: The pelvic floor provides essential support to the bladder, uterus (in women), and bowel. This support helps maintain the proper position of these organs and prevents issues such as prolapse.

• Tightens to Prevent Accidents: When the pelvic floor muscles contract, they help control the release of urine and prevent accidents by allowing you to hold on until you reach the toilet.

• Relaxes to Facilitate Elimination: For effective and comfortable urination and bowel movements, the pelvic floor muscles need to relax. This relaxation allows the bladder and bowel to empty properly while you are on the toilet.

Maintaining the strength and flexibility of your pelvic floor is essential for these functions. Engaging in pelvic floor exercises and seeking professional guidance from one of our physiotherapist’s can help ensure that your pelvic floor performs optimally.

DO YOU HAVE A WEAK PELVIC FLOOR?

Causes of Pelvic Floor Weakness

Pelvic floor weakness can be caused by a variety of factors, including but not limited to:

• Pregnancy: The physical changes and increased weight during pregnancy can put strain on the pelvic floor.

• Vaginal Delivery: The process of childbirth can stretch and weaken the pelvic floor muscles and tissues.

• Forceps Delivery: The use of forceps during delivery can place additional stress on the pelvic floor.

• Long Active Labour (>2 hours): Prolonged labor can increase the risk of pelvic floor trauma.

• Baby Weighing 4kg or More: Larger babies can exert more pressure on the pelvic floor during delivery.

• Repetitive Heavy Lifting: Regular lifting of heavy objects can strain the pelvic floor muscles over time.

• Chronic Cough: Persistent coughing increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can weaken the pelvic floor.

• High Impact Exercise: Activities such as running or jumping can put stress on the pelvic floor.

• Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the strength and elasticity of the pelvic floor tissues.

Addressing these risk factors and engaging in preventative or rehabilitative exercises can help maintain or restore pelvic floor strength. If you have concerns about pelvic floor weakness, consulting with one of our physiotherapist’s who can provide personalised guidance and treatment options.