What is my pelvic floor?
Your pelvic floor (5) is a set of muscles that sit like a hammock from the pubic bone at the front to the tailbone (coccyx) at the back.
Your uterus (1) and bladder (2) sit above your pelvic floor, and your urethra, vagina (3) and rectum (4) run through it.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and connective tissues that form a kind of "hammock" at the bottom of the pelvis. These muscles support the pelvic organs, such as the bladder, uterus, and rectum, and are vital for controlling urinary, sexual, and fecal function.
-
How is the pelvic floor composed? The pelvic floor is composed of several muscles, including the pubococcygeus, iliococcygeus, and puborectal muscles, as well as ligaments and connective tissues that surround and support them.
-
How to tell if the pelvic floor is weakened? Symptoms of a weakened pelvic floor may include urinary incontinence, difficulty holding in gas or feces, pelvic organ prolapse, pain during sexual intercourse, and a feeling of pressure in the pelvis.
-
Who can suffer from pelvic floor weakness? Both men and women can experience pelvic floor weakness. Women may be more prone after pregnancy and childbirth, while men may develop pelvic floor weakness after prostate surgery or due to aging. Activities such as lifting heavy objects, sneezing, jumping, or running can increase the risk of pelvic floor weakness.
-
How can the pelvic floor be strengthened? Kegel exercises are an excellent way to strengthen the pelvic floor. They involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic muscles regularly. Additionally, there are specific devices, such as Kegel balls or vaginal cones, that can assist in pelvic floor training and strengthening.
-
What should they use and which professional should they see? To strengthen the pelvic floor, devices designed specifically for this purpose, such as Kegel balls or vaginal cones, can be used. It is also advisable to consult with a physiotherapist specialized in pelvic floor therapy, who can provide guidance on specific exercises and strengthening techniques, as well as perform manual therapy if necessary.