The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Exercises

Prudence
2 days ago
4 min read

Have you ever wondered why everyone seems to talk about pelvic floor exercises but never quite explains why they're so important?

As a physiotherapist dedicated to women's health, I often meet clients who've heard about pelvic floor exercises but don't fully understand their real benefits. Pelvic floor exercises are simple yet highly effective movements that can dramatically improve your quality of life—particularly if you're dealing with issues like bladder leaks, pregnancy-related concerns, or even just everyday discomfort.

What exactly is the pelvic floor?

Your pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues forming a supportive sling from your pubic bone to your tailbone. Think of it like a hammock that holds your bladder, bowel, and uterus in place. When these muscles are strong, they do their job quietly and efficiently, but when weakened, things can start to feel pretty uncomfortable. You might experience bladder leakage, pelvic discomfort, or even issues during intimacy.

One of the most common things I hear from women, especially those who are pregnant or have just given birth, is confusion about whether to strengthen or relax their pelvic floor muscles. The truth is, a healthy pelvic floor is about balance—muscles that are neither too tight nor too loose.

Why pelvic floor exercises matter for every woman

Pelvic floor exercises are not just about fixing a problem—they're also about preventing future issues. Regularly exercising these muscles can help you avoid problems like urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and even enhance sexual satisfaction.

For pregnant women especially, there's often confusion around pelvic floor training. Many think they should be tightening these muscles constantly, but balance is key. Too much tension can actually make childbirth more difficult. Pelvic floor exercises help you develop both strength and flexibility, preparing your body for the demands of pregnancy and labour. I always recommend women consider joining one of our group classes where they can learn these exercises in a supportive environment.

The surprising connection between pelvic floor strength and your daily life

Here's something many women find surprising—strengthening your pelvic floor doesn't just help with obvious things like bladder control. It also boosts your overall confidence. Imagine feeling completely secure during a run, a sneeze, or even a hearty laugh. Many women underestimate how much stress urinary incontinence affects their lives until they experience the relief that pelvic floor strengthening provides.

If you're a runner or involved in sports like triathlon, your pelvic floor is doing more work than you realise. A well-functioning pelvic floor significantly enhances your performance and comfort. That's why we incorporate pelvic floor assessments into our running and triathlon assessments, to help athletes perform at their best without the distraction of discomfort.

Improving your pelvic floor after childbirth

It's common for women to experience pelvic floor weakness after childbirth. This doesn't just affect your physical wellbeing; it can impact emotional health too. Feeling disconnected from your body or anxious about returning to exercise is very real and understandable. Pelvic floor rehabilitation can make a huge difference.

One thing I've learned through my practice is that recovery isn't just physical—it's emotional too. Pelvic floor exercises help restore your body's strength and function while simultaneously rebuilding confidence in yourself. At Day One Physio, our personalised women's health physiotherapy services are tailored specifically to your unique needs, whether you've just had a baby or you're several years postpartum.

Addressing misconceptions about pelvic floor exercises

Some women worry that pelvic floor exercises might negatively impact childbirth. This is a genuine concern, but let me reassure you—pelvic floor training done correctly actually prepares you better for labour. It helps you develop both strength and relaxation skills necessary for childbirth, reducing your risk of complications like tearing or prolonged labour.

I always recommend seeking guidance from a professional physiotherapist who can ensure you're exercising correctly. Our team at Day One Physio takes time to educate and support you. If you have specific concerns or questions, feel free to reach out via our contact page.

How to effectively incorporate pelvic floor exercises into your daily routine

Consistency is everything when it comes to pelvic floor exercises. You don't need to dedicate hours; a few minutes each day can make a substantial difference. Simple exercises like kegels, when done regularly, significantly improve muscle tone and control.

Here's a helpful guide from Healthline that outlines exactly how to perform these exercises correctly. If you're not sure you're doing them right, our physiotherapy team can offer personalised coaching to ensure you're getting the most benefit.

Ready to take control of your pelvic health?

If pelvic floor concerns are affecting your quality of life, there's absolutely no need to struggle alone. At Day One Physio, we specialise in holistic, personalised support to help you reclaim your comfort and confidence. If you're ready to get started or just want to know more about our services, visit our services page or simply book your appointment directly.

Your pelvic health is integral to your overall wellbeing, and taking proactive steps today means a healthier, happier you tomorrow.