Pelvic floor muscles

The pelvic floor forms the base of the pelvis and is composed of several muscle layers. Together, these layers, known as the pelvic floor muscles, play a crucial role in urination and defecation.

What do the pelvic floor muscles do?

By contracting, the pelvic floor muscles ensure that urine and feces can be held in. Relaxation of the pelvic floor muscles enables urination and defecation.

Another important function of the pelvic floor muscles is based on their position. They form the base of the pelvis, acting like a hammock to support the abdominal organs. Activities such as coughing, sneezing, straining, or lifting heavy objects increase abdominal pressure. Proper contraction of the pelvic floor muscles during these activities is crucial. Not only to support the organs above but also to prevent unwanted urinary leakage.

What happens if the pelvic floor muscles do not work properly?

The pelvic floor muscles usually function unnoticed in the background. Complaints arise only when they are not working correctly. It is essential that the tension in the pelvic floor muscles is balanced. Overactivity means the muscles are too tense, while underactivity means they contract insufficiently.

With overactivity, excessive pressure on the bladder can increase the urge to urinate or create a constant urge. This also applies to the anus, increasing the urge to defecate. Other potential issues include pelvic pain or involuntary urine loss during pressure-increasing activities like coughing or sneezing.

Underactivity can lead to difficulty holding in urine and feces. It may also prevent complete emptying of the bladder or bowels during urination or defecation. Reduced support for abdominal organs can result in organ prolapse.

What does pelvic floor muscle training consist of?

Restoring the correct tension in the pelvic floor muscles is crucial. A pelvic physiotherapist specializes in these issues. A commonly used technique is myofeedback, a device that measures muscle activity.

Treatment includes advice on posture and movement in daily life. For underactivity, targeted exercises are particularly important.

When is there pelvic instability?

Pelvic instability, pelvic pain, and symphysiolysis are terms describing the same condition: a weakening of the pelvis. This is common during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth but can also result from an accident. Symptoms may be caused by under- or overactivity of the pelvic floor muscles. Pelvic instability is characterized by pain in the lower back, front and back of the pelvis, and around the tailbone.

Find exercises for pelvic instability here, or contact a pelvic physiotherapist near you.