Everything You Need to Know About the Pelvic Floor (part 1)

What is the Pelvic Floor?

The pelvic floor is a complex, hammock-like structure composed of muscles and connective tissues (fascia). Located at the base of the pelvis, it stretches from the pubic bone in the front to the tailbone (coccyx) at the back. These muscles work together with other deep abdominal muscles to help stabilise the spine during movement. Often referred to as the foundation of the core, the pelvic floor plays a crucial role in overall stability and function.

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What Does the Pelvic Floor Do?

The pelvic floor muscles support the bladder, bowel, and, in women, the uterus. They are crucial for maintaining continence, enhancing sensation during intimacy, and contracting to handle pressure from activities like coughing, sneezing, or jumping. These muscles also work with the diaphragm during breathing, so good posture and proper breathing techniques are essential for their optimal function.

Understanding the Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction affects millions of women (and men) but is often overlooked and misunderstood. The pelvic floor is a group of muscles at the bottom of the pelvis that support the bladder, bowel, and reproductive organs, and helps control urination and bowel movements. When these muscles are weak, too tight, or not working well, various symptoms can occur in both men and women.

1. Urinary Incontinence

One of the most common symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction is urinary incontinence, which is the involuntary leakage of urine. There are different types of urinary incontinence associated with pelvic floor issues:

• Stress incontinence occurs when physical activities like coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercising put pressure on the bladder, leading to leakage.

• Urge incontinence is characterised by a sudden, intense urge to urinate, often followed by an involuntary loss of urine. This can happen even when the bladder isn’t full.

• Mixed incontinence involves a combination of both stress and urge incontinence.

  
  

These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, leading to embarrassment, social isolation, and a reduced quality of life.

2. Bowel Dysfunction

Pelvic floor dysfunction can also affect bowel control, leading to a range of symptoms such as:

• Faecal incontinence, the involuntary loss of stool or gas, which can range from occasional leakage to a complete loss of control.

• Chronic constipation, where individuals struggle to empty their bowels fully, often feeling like they need to strain excessively.

• Incomplete evacuation, the sensation of not fully emptying the bowel, even after a bowel movement.

  
  

These bowel-related symptoms can be distressing and often cause people to avoid social situations due to fear of accidents.

3. Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain is another significant symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction. This pain can be felt in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back and is often described as a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing sensation. For some, the pain may be constant, while for others, it might occur only during specific activities like sexual intercourse, urination, or bowel movements.

4. Pain During Intercourse (Dyspareunia)

For women, pelvic floor dysfunction can lead to painful intercourse, known as dyspareunia. The pain is often due to the tightness or overactivity of the pelvic floor muscles, which can cause discomfort or a burning sensation. Symptoms can have a profound impact on intimate relationships and emotional well-being.

5. Heaviness or Pressure in the Pelvis

A feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region is another common symptom. This sensation is often described as a "dragging" feeling, as if something is falling out of the vagina or rectum. This symptom may be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse, where one or more of the pelvic organs (bladder, uterus, rectum) drop from their normal position and push against the vaginal walls.

What causes Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

·      Childbirth - Diastasis recti – forceps – episiotomy etc.

·      Menopause

·      Poor posture

·      Incorrect breathing patterns

·      Age

·      Lifestyle factors – jobs that require lifting or prolonged sitting

·      Obesity

·      Constipation

·      Hysterectomy C section or abdominal surgery

·      Lack of abdominal muscle function

·      Hyper-mobility & syndromes associated with

Conclusion

Pelvic floor dysfunction is a complicated condition that can greatly impact your quality of life. However, please remember these symptoms are treatable. If you notice any symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional who specialises in pelvic health. With the right care, many people experience significant relief and a better quality of life.

I hope this information has shed light on the importance of caring for your pelvic floor. If you’re dealing with any of the issues discussed or have any questions, feel free to reach out. I’m here to help you get back on track with your pelvic health with my 12 week Adore Your Pelvic Floor Course.