World Sexual Health Day, celebrated annually on September 4th, is a time to highlight the importance of sexual health and well-being across the globe. This year, let’s focus on an often overlooked but crucial aspect of women’s health: pelvic floor health.
Understanding Pelvic Floor Health
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles play a vital role in a woman’s overall health, impacting bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and even core stability. Despite its importance, pelvic floor health is frequently neglected until problems arise.
The Benefits of Strong Pelvic Floor Muscles
- Improved Bladder Control: One of the most common issues women face, particularly after childbirth, is urinary incontinence. Strengthening the pelvic floor muscles can significantly reduce or even eliminate this issue, giving women greater confidence and freedom in their daily lives.
- Enhanced Sexual Function: Pelvic floor strength is closely linked to sexual health. Strong, toned pelvic floor muscles can lead to more satisfying sexual experiences by increasing sensitivity, enhancing orgasmic potential, and reducing discomfort during intercourse.
- Support During Pregnancy and Postpartum Recovery: During pregnancy, the pelvic floor muscles support the growing uterus and help manage the increased pressure on the bladder and bowel. After childbirth, these muscles can become weakened, leading to issues like incontinence. Regular pelvic floor exercises can aid in a faster and more effective recovery.
- Prevention of Pelvic Organ Prolapse: As women age, the risk of pelvic organ prolapse increases, where one or more of the pelvic organs drop from their normal position. A strong pelvic floor can help prevent this condition, reducing the need for surgical interventions.
- Improve bowel function: Improved Bowel Function: Pelvic floor exercises can also play a significant role in improving bowel function. Issues such as constipation and fecal incontinence can often be managed by strengthening the pelvic floor.
How to Strengthen/Relax Your Pelvic Floor
Pelvic floor exercises, are simple yet effective exercises that can be done almost anywhere.For those unsure about whether they are performing the exercises correctly, or for those with more severe issues, consulting with a women’s health physiotherapist can provide tailored advice and support. Physiotherapists can also use biofeedback and other techniques to ensure the exercises are effective.
Conclusion
On this World Sexual Health Day, let’s take the opportunity to bring attention to the importance of pelvic floor health. Whether you’re looking to improve your sexual health, recover after childbirth, or simply maintain your overall well-being, focusing on the strength and function of your pelvic floor muscles is a key step in achieving a healthier, happier life.
Remember, sexual health is an integral part of overall health, and taking care of your pelvic floor is a vital aspect of this. Empower yourself with the knowledge and tools to strengthen these essential muscles and experience the benefits for years to come.
If you’re interested in our services, book an Initial Women’s Health Appointment with our Physiotherapist Maria Carreno!
MPPFG Team
