Around one in two women in the UK will experience pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms during their lives. For women who engage in high-intensity exercise, that figure rises to 63 percent.
The female pelvic floor is a vital but often overlooked network of muscles and ligaments stretching from the front of the pelvis to the tailbone.
These muscles support the bladder, bowel, and uterus, and wrap around the openings of the urethra, vagina, and anus. They work closely with the diaphragm, abdominal, and back muscles to maintain posture, continence, and core stability — making the pelvic floor the foundation of the body’s core strength.
Life events such as pregnancy and childbirth put extra strain on the pelvic floor. Pregnancy increases uterine weight and stretches abdominal muscles, while vaginal birth can cause direct injury to pelvic floor tissues.
However, recent research reveals that pelvic floor problems are not caused solely by pregnancy or childbirth. Intense physical activity, including heavy lifting and high-impact exercise, can also contribute to dysfunction, even in women who have never been pregnant.
Exercise remains essential for health and is often recommended to ease menopause and menstruation symptoms. But repeated strain from certain activities raises intra-abdominal pressure and can gradually weaken pelvic floor muscles if they are not properly trained to cope.
Pelvic floor dysfunction occurs when these muscles are unable to meet the demands of daily life, exercise, or supporting core muscles. It is a growing problem, with symptoms including urine or fecal leakage during coughing or sneezing, a heavy or dragging sensation in the lower abdomen or vaginal area, painful intercourse, changes in bowel habits, or visible vaginal bulging—signs of prolapse.
The emotional impact can be significant, causing embarrassment, anxiety, low confidence, and reluctance to stay active, all of which reduce quality of life.
Prevention and Treatment
The good news is that pelvic floor dysfunction is often preventable and manageable. Women experiencing symptoms should consult their GP, who may refer them to a women’s health physiotherapist through NHS or private services.
Practical advice to support pelvic floor health includes:
- Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight
- Drinking enough water for bladder health
- Using the toilet only when needed, not “just in case”
- Preventing constipation with a high-fibre diet and good bowel habits
- Avoiding breath-holding during lifting or exercise
- Performing regular pelvic floor exercises to build strength
A basic pelvic floor contraction can be practised by imagining stopping the passage of wind and urine mid-flow, then lifting those muscles inward. Holding the contraction for a few seconds before relaxing, and repeating consistently, strengthens the pelvic floor over time.
Like any muscle, a well-trained pelvic floor becomes more resilient to the stresses of childbirth, ageing, and physical strain. Studies show that a strong pelvic floor recovers faster from injury and dysfunction.
Women should take pride in their pelvic floor health by supporting and strengthening these vital muscles regularly.
Related topics:
- How Pelvic Floor Disorders Affect Women’s Sexual Health?
- Study Reveals How Women With Pelvic Disorders Are Often Dismissed By Doctors
- Study Shows Doctors Often Dismiss Women’s Pelvic Pain, Study Finds
