Pelvic Floor Problems and Everyday Life: How Small Symptoms Can Affect Movement, Confidence and Wellbeing
- Tanaeya Burch
- Jan 25
- 3 min read
Pelvic floor problems rarely begin dramatically.
More often, they start quietly.
A small leak when you laugh.
A slight heaviness at the end of the day.
A feeling that your core is not as strong as it once was.
A sense that something is “off” but difficult to describe.
Because these changes are subtle, many people dismiss them.
But over time, pelvic floor dysfunction can influence how you move, exercise, work and even socialise.
This article explores how pelvic floor issues affect daily life, why they are often misunderstood, and how pelvic floor physiotherapy restores strength, stability and confidence.
The Pelvic Floor's Role in Everyday Movement
Every time you stand up, lift a bag, carry groceries or climb stairs, your pelvic floor is working.
It responds to pressure changes inside your abdomen.
If it is functioning well, these movements feel natural and supported.
If not, you may notice:
Leaking during exertion
Instability in your hips
Lower back discomfort
Fatigue during activity
The pelvic floor acts as a foundation. When the foundation is unstable, the structure above compensates.
This can lead to secondary issues such as hip pain or lumbar discomfort.
Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and Exercise
Exercise is beneficial, but certain movements increase intra abdominal pressure.
Running, jumping, lifting weights or high intensity workouts require coordinated pelvic floor engagement.
Without it, symptoms may appear.
Many individuals stop exercising due to embarrassment about leaks.
Avoidance reduces fitness and confidence.
Pelvic floor physiotherapy enables a safe return to activity by improving strength and coordination.
The Link Between Breathing and Pelvic Floor Health
Breathing and pelvic floor function are closely connected.
During inhalation, the diaphragm descends and the pelvic floor gently lengthens. During exhalation, both return to their resting position.
Shallow breathing patterns disrupt this rhythm.
Learning diaphragmatic breathing restores coordination and reduces downward pressure.
This is often a key turning point in recovery.
Overactive vs Underactive Pelvic Floor
Not all pelvic floor problems are due to weakness.
An overactive pelvic floor may present with:
Pelvic pain
Difficulty initiating urination
Painful intercourse
Constipation
In these cases, relaxation techniques are prioritised before strengthening.
Accurate assessment ensures the right approach.
Men, Pelvic Floor and Misconceptions
Pelvic floor physiotherapy is not only for women.
Men may experience pelvic floor dysfunction following prostate surgery, chronic pelvic pain or long term strain.
Symptoms can include urinary urgency, discomfort or instability.
Addressing these issues improves quality of life significantly.
Pelvic Floor and Ageing
Ageing does not automatically cause dysfunction, but tissue elasticity changes over time.
Proactive strengthening maintains support and reduces risk of prolapse or incontinence.
Early intervention prevents minor symptoms becoming larger problems.
A Whole Person Approach
At InTouch, pelvic floor rehabilitation considers the whole person.
This includes:
Posture
Lifestyle habits
Exercise patterns
Stress levels
Hormonal factors
Treatment is personalised and practical.
The aim is not only symptom relief but long term resilience.
Confidence Restored
Pelvic floor physiotherapy restores more than muscle strength.
It restores:
Confidence during movement
Freedom to exercise
Comfort in social settings
Peace of mind
Small improvements create meaningful change.
Take the First Step
If pelvic floor symptoms are affecting your daily life, you do not have to manage them alone.
A Free Discovery Visit is a simple, no pressure way to:
talk through what you are dealing with
understand what may be contributing to it
discuss your goals and what you want to get back to
find out what your next best steps could be
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