Why Pelvic Floor Health Matters More Than You Think

The pelvic floor is one of the most important and least talked about muscle groups in the body.

Most people only hear about it after pregnancy. Others encounter the term when dealing with bladder leaks, prolapse or discomfort during exercise. Some never hear about it at all until something feels “not quite right”.

Yet your pelvic floor plays a vital role in daily life. It supports your organs. It helps control bladder and bowel function. It contributes to core stability. It influences posture. It affects intimacy. It impacts confidence.

When it is working well, you do not think about it.When it is not, it can quietly affect almost every part of your day.

Let’s take a closer look at what the pelvic floor actually is, why dysfunction occurs, and how targeted pelvic floor physiotherapy can restore strength, control and confidence.

What Is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a supportive sling at the base of the pelvis.

In women, it supports the bladder, uterus and bowel.In men, it supports the bladder and bowel.

These muscles are responsible for:

• Maintaining bladder and bowel control

• Supporting pelvic organs

• Contributing to sexual function

• Stabilising the spine and pelvis

• Managing pressure during lifting, coughing or exercise

  
  

The pelvic floor works closely with the diaphragm, deep abdominal muscles and lower back stabilisers. Together, they form your “core system”.

If one part of this system is not functioning well, others compensate.

Signs Your Pelvic Floor May Need Attention

Pelvic floor dysfunction does not always present dramatically. Often, it shows up subtly at first.

Common symptoms include:

• Leaking urine when coughing, sneezing or exercising

• A feeling of heaviness in the pelvis

• Difficulty fully emptying the bladder

• Frequent urges to urinate

• Pain during intercourse

• Lower back or pelvic pain

• A sense of instability during movement

• Postpartum weakness

  
  

These symptoms are common. They are not normal.

Many people assume bladder leaks are an inevitable part of ageing or childbirth. Others believe pelvic discomfort is simply something to “put up with”.

In reality, pelvic floor physiotherapy can significantly improve these issues.

Why Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Happens

Pelvic floor dysfunction can develop for many reasons.

Pregnancy and Childbirth

Pregnancy places significant strain on pelvic tissues. Hormonal changes increase ligament laxity. Vaginal delivery may stretch or weaken muscles.

Even caesarean births can affect pelvic floor function due to pressure changes and abdominal muscle disruption.

Chronic Strain

Chronic constipation, heavy lifting or persistent coughing increases downward pressure on the pelvic floor.

Over time, this weakens support structures.

High Impact Exercise

Running, jumping and certain gym movements increase intra-abdominal pressure. Without proper coordination, the pelvic floor may struggle to manage that load.

Menopause

Hormonal changes reduce tissue elasticity and strength, increasing the risk of bladder leaks and prolapse.

Pelvic Surgery

Procedures such as hysterectomy may alter muscle coordination and support.

Stress and Tension

Pelvic floor muscles can also become overactive or tight, leading to discomfort and difficulty relaxing.

Not all pelvic floor problems are due to weakness. Sometimes the issue is poor coordination or excessive tension.

The Myth of “Just Do Kegels”

When pelvic floor issues arise, many people are told to “do Kegels”.

While pelvic floor exercises can be helpful, they are often performed incorrectly.

Common mistakes include:

• Over tightening without relaxing

• Holding the breath

• Bearing down instead of lifting

• Strengthening already tight muscles

  
  

In some cases, Kegels can worsen symptoms.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy begins with assessment. Understanding whether muscles are weak, tight or poorly coordinated determines the correct approach.

Individualised treatment matters.

Pelvic Floor and Core Stability

Your pelvic floor does not work in isolation.

It coordinates with:

• The diaphragm during breathing

• The deep abdominal muscles

• The multifidus muscles in the spine

When you lift, cough or change position, these muscles engage reflexively to manage pressure.

If coordination is disrupted, pressure may be directed downward, increasing leakage or discomfort.

Restoring proper breathing patterns often improves pelvic floor function dramatically.

Learning how to manage pressure during daily activities is one of the most valuable aspects of pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy: What to Expect

At InTouch.bm, pelvic floor physiotherapy begins with a comprehensive assessment.

This may include:

• Detailed history

• Postural analysis

• Core strength evaluation

• Breathing assessment

• Pelvic floor muscle testing

• Functional movement analysis

  
  

Treatment may involve:

• Targeted strengthening

• Relaxation techniques

• Manual therapy

• Postural correction

• Pressure management training

• Education on lifestyle modifications

  
  

The approach is respectful, professional and tailored to your comfort.

Progress is typically gradual but meaningful.

Pelvic Floor Health Across the Lifespan

Pelvic floor physiotherapy is not only for postpartum women.

It benefits:

• Men experiencing prostate related issues

• Athletes with pelvic instability

• Women during menopause

• Individuals with chronic pelvic pain

• Those recovering from surgery

• Anyone experiencing bladder leaks

Pelvic health is whole body health.

Addressing issues early prevents progression and restores confidence.

The Emotional Side of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor issues often affect confidence and social life.

Some people avoid exercise. Others restrict travel due to fear of leaks. Intimacy may feel uncomfortable or stressful.

These experiences can feel isolating.

Pelvic floor physiotherapy provides not only physical improvement but reassurance and clarity.

Understanding what is happening reduces anxiety and builds empowerment.

You Do Not Have to Live With It

Pelvic floor dysfunction is common. It is treatable.

With the right guidance, many individuals experience:

• Reduced leakage

• Improved stability

• Better posture

• Greater confidence during exercise

• Enhanced intimacy

• Relief from pelvic discomfort

Your body is capable of adaptation at every stage of life.

Book Your Free Discovery Visit

If you are experiencing pelvic floor symptoms or simply want to better understand your pelvic health, we are here to help.

At InTouch.bm, we offer a Free Discovery Visit where you can speak with a specialist, discuss your concerns and explore personalised treatment options in a supportive environment.

Click here to schedule your Free Discovery Visit and take the first step towards stronger support, improved control and renewed confidence.