What is the Pelvic Floor?

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The Pelvic Floor consists of muscle and connective tissue, which form a sling across the base of the pelvis (like a hammock).  It is a group of muscles even though it is referred to as a single muscle. The pelvic floor has three openings that run through it, the urethra, the vagina, and the rectum

The Pelvic Floor –

• Supports the pelvic organs, specifically the. bladder, vagina, uterus and bowel
• Contributes to the closing pressure of the urethra, vagina and anus
• Is important for bladder and bowel control and sexual function
• Withstands abdominal pressure which is increased during coughing, sneezing, vomiting, lifting, laughing etc
• Works with abdominal and spinal muscles to support your spine
• Assists with pregnancy and childbirth

Everyone has a pelvic floor and should be exercising it everyday to assist in prevention of incontinence in your older years (YES MEN TOO)

Signs of a weak Pelvic Floor

• Urine loss when you cough, sneeze, lift or exercise
• Frequency – passing urine more then 6-8 times a day
• Urgency –
  •  an urgent need to pass urine
  • Unable to hold until you find a toilet
• Prolapse – you may feel a bulging, dragging or heavy sensation
• Poor control of wind
• Decreased sensation and tone in the vagina during intercourse
• Difficulty evacuating bowel motions
• Unable to completely empty when you pass urine
• Frequent urinary tract infections due to poor bladder emptying

If you are unsure of how to exercise your pelvic floor please book in to see one of specialist Physiotherapists.