9 Things Every Woman Should Know About Their Pelvic Floor Health

As women, we often prioritize the health of our bodies and minds, yet one area we may overlook is our pelvic floor health. Our pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support our uterus, bladder, and rectum, and can be affected by many factors such as pregnancy, childbirth, aging, weight gain, and high-impact sports. In this article, we will discuss nine things every woman should know about their pelvic floor health, why it’s essential to maintain it, and how to take care of it.

1. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Is Common

Approximately one in three women experience pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic floor disorders at some point in their lives. Symptoms may include urinary or fecal incontinence, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction. These symptoms can affect our daily lives, such as limiting our physical activity, causing discomfort, and reducing our quality of life.

2. Pelvic Floor Exercises Are Essential

Pelvic floor exercises, also called Kegels, are essential for maintaining pelvic floor health. By performing these exercises, we can strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles, improving bladder and bowel control, supporting pelvic organs, and enhancing sexual health. Regular pelvic floor exercises can help prevent pelvic floor disorders and manage their symptoms.

3. Correct Technique Is Crucial

To ensure the effectiveness of pelvic floor exercises, proper technique is essential. First, identify the correct muscles by squeezing the muscles around your vagina, then imagine stopping the flow of urine or preventing gas from passing. Hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat several times a day, and gradually increase your hold time.

4. Lifestyle Factors Affect Pelvic Floor Health

Several lifestyle factors can affect pelvic floor health, including obesity, smoking, chronic constipation, and high-impact exercise. To maintain a healthy pelvic floor, focus on maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet with adequate fiber, and avoiding activities that put undue pressure on the pelvic floor, such as heavy lifting or high-impact sports.

5. Pregnancy Affects Pelvic Floor

Pregnancy and childbirth can significantly impact pelvic floor health, as sustained pressure and stretching during pregnancy can weaken the muscles. Incontinence, pelvic pain, and prolapse (a bulging of pelvic organs) are common postpartum symptoms. Pelvic floor exercises during and after pregnancy, along with proper perineal care, can help prevent and manage these symptoms.

6. Menopause Can Affect Pelvic Floor

As women enter menopause, hormonal changes can affect the pelvic floor muscles’ strength and support. Symptoms may include vaginal dryness, pain during intercourse, and atrophy (shrinking) of the pelvic organs. Pelvic floor exercises, along with hormonal therapy and regular sexual activity, can help alleviate these symptoms.

7. Surgery May Be Necessary

In severe cases of pelvic floor dysfunction, surgery may be necessary. Procedures such as sling surgery can provide additional support to the pelvic organs, while reconstructive surgery may be necessary for pelvic organ prolapse. Surgery should only be considered after non-surgical interventions have been exhausted, and after careful consideration with a health care provider.

8. Psychosexual Health Is Important

Pelvic floor dysfunction can significantly affect our sex lives, causing discomfort, pain, or difficulty in achieving orgasm. Psychosexual therapy, along with pelvic floor exercises and other interventions, can help support sexual health, reduce anxiety, and improve overall satisfaction.

9. Prevention Is Key

Maintaining pelvic floor health is essential for preventing pelvic floor dysfunction and promoting an active, healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, healthy habits, proper technique during pelvic floor exercises, and early intervention for common symptoms can go a long way in supporting lifelong pelvic floor health.

In conclusion, pelvic floor health should be a priority for all women. By understanding the importance of maintaining the pelvic floor and taking proactive steps to care for it, we can prevent pelvic floor dysfunction, manage its symptoms, and support our overall health and well-being. Remember to consult with a health care provider if you experience any symptoms or have concerns about your pelvic floor.