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Pelvic Floor Health

A strong pelvic floor supports the bladder, uterus, and other pelvic organs, helping maintain comfort, control, and function throughout life. When these muscles weaken or become overly tense, you may experience issues such as urinary leakage, pelvic pressure, or chronic pain.

Changes to the pelvic floor are common and can occur with aging, childbirth, pelvic surgery, constipation, injury, or hormonal changes. Understanding and addressing these changes early can prevent more serious complications over time.

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Pelvic Pain and Your Pelvic Floor

Pelvic pain often has many possible causes, including pelvic floor dysfunction, in which the muscles that support the pelvic organs don’t work as they should. This can cause discomfort that affects your ability to sit, exercise, or enjoy intimacy.

If you experience pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, or ongoing lower back discomfort, your provider can perform an exam to determine whether your pelvic floor muscles are involved and create a treatment plan to help relieve symptoms.

Signs You Should Talk to Your Provider about Pelvic Floor Health

You may benefit from a pelvic floor evaluation if you experience:

  • Urinary leakage, frequency, or urgency
  • Constipation or difficulty with bowel movements
  • Pelvic or lower back pain
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Trouble inserting tampons
  • A feeling of pelvic pressure, heaviness, or bulging

These symptoms can signal pelvic floor dysfunction or pelvic organ prolapse, conditions that occur when weakened muscles allow organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum to shift out of position. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), indicates that pelvic support problems can range from mild to severe but are treatable through a combination of therapy, lifestyle changes, or surgery when needed.*

How to Care for Your Pelvic Floor

Pelvic floor issues are common and can be managed with the right care and guidance. Your provider may recommend one or more of the following:

Medication
Medications can address constipation, bladder urgency, or hormonal changes that may contribute to pelvic discomfort. Stool softeners, hormone therapy, or bladder-relaxing medications are often helpful options.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Specialized therapy helps retrain muscles that have become weak or tense. A pelvic floor therapist can teach exercises to improve strength, coordination, and control, such as Kegel exercises, while also helping you learn relaxation techniques to ease pain.

Lifestyle Adjustments
Maintaining a healthy weight, managing chronic coughing or constipation, and staying active can all protect pelvic floor strength.

Your provider may also recommend additional evaluations or imaging if symptoms persist, ensuring your treatment plan fully addresses your needs.

Schedule a Pelvic Floor Health Appointment

Pelvic floor health is an essential part of your overall well-being. If you notice changes in bladder control, pelvic comfort, or muscle strength, reach out to your UWH of Pennsylvania provider. We offer individualized care to help you restore balance, relieve symptoms, and regain confidence in your daily life.

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FAQs

Can pelvic floor problems go away on their own?

Mild symptoms may improve with lifestyle changes and exercises, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to prevent complications.

Is pelvic floor therapy uncomfortable?

Pelvic floor therapy is gentle and tailored to your comfort level. Your therapist will guide you through exercises and relaxation techniques designed to reduce tension and restore proper function.

Can pregnancy or childbirth cause pelvic floor issues?

Yes. The muscles and tissues that support your pelvic organs stretch during pregnancy and delivery, which can lead to weakness or injury. Postpartum therapy and strengthening can help restore function and prevent long-term issues.

*Source: ACOG