Understanding the Pelvic Floor

What is the pelvic floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and supportive tissues located at the base of the pelvis. These muscles form a supportive layer that helps hold important organs in place, including:

•    The bladder in the front

•    The uterus between

•    The bowel behind

Healthy pelvic floor muscles are essential for normal bladder and bowel movement control, pelvic organ support, and core stability.

What do the pelvic floor muscles do?

Pelvic floor muscles perform several important functions in the body.

1. Supporting pelvic organs — They support the bladder, uterus, and bowel, helping these organs stay in their proper position.

2. Controlling bladder and bowel function — Strong pelvic floor muscles help maintain control over urination and bowel movements.

3. Supporting pregnancy and childbirth — During pregnancy, the pelvic floor helps support the growing uterus and plays an important role during childbirth.

4. Improving core stability — These muscles work together with the abdominal and back muscles to help stabilise the lower back and core.

5. Maintaining vaginal muscle tone — Healthy pelvic muscles help maintain vaginal strength, elasticity, and function. All this helps in a healthy and comfortable sexual experience.

Why can the pelvic floor become weak?

Pelvic floor muscles can weaken over time due to several reasons, including:

•    Pregnancy and childbirth

•    Ageing

•    Hormonal changes

•    Chronic pressure on pelvic muscles such as obesity

When these muscles weaken, women may experience symptoms such as:

•    Urinary leakage

•    A feeling of pelvic pressure or heaviness

•    Reduced vaginal muscle tone and laxity

•    Discomfort during physical activities

•    Discomfort or dissatisfaction during intimacy

Pelvic wellness treatments aim to strengthen these muscles and improve pelvic health.