I wanted to take the time today to dive into the pelvic floor…figuratively. It’s such foreign territory to all of us. Talking about the pelvic floor has been such a no-no that even when we need help with issues stemming from the pelvic floor, we struggle with discussing it. The most important thing I want you to take away from this post is that NOTHING is off limits when discussing your pelvic floor issues with me or any other pelvic floor therapist. NOTHING. No shame here.
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a very common problem and I guarantee that you are experiencing symptoms that so many others have also experienced. So you aren’t weird!
It may also help you to know the pelvic floor is nothing more than a group of muscles. These muscles have lots of functions. They support your organs. They contract to help pee and poop stay in, and relax to allow pee and poop (and babies) to come out. They help you enjoy pain-free sex. The pelvic floor has lots of important jobs!
Really, these muscles are no different than your traps or calves. These muscles can get tight or weak or forget how and when to work. When this happens to any other muscles in the body causing us to not function well, we address them with soft tissue work, timing drills, strengthening exercises, whatever they need! Our pelvic floor muscles deserve the exact same attention.
So if your pelvic floor is needing attention and causing you not to live life, there is a solution. Wearing pads all day is not the solution. Peeing “just in case” is not the solution. Avoiding sex is not the solution. Talk to a pelvic floor physical therapist today!
I’d be happy to answer any questions you have.
Dr. Rachel Atufunwa PT, DPT