We talk a lot about pelvic floor strength. I can’t overstate how important pelvic floor strength is. But did you know that pelvic floor relaxation is also a really big deal? Pelvic floor dysfunction can also be pelvic floor muscles that just don’t relax and let go. We need those muscles to rest in order to perform a lot of our human functions.
If you sit to pee but it takes a little time for pee to finally happen, you might have a tight pelvic floor! You might be sitting and waiting for those muscles to relax and let go.
If constipation is a problem, there could be many causes. But pelvic floor dysfunction is one that is often overlooked. Just like we need our muscles to relax to pee, we need them to do the same when we poop. Seeing a pelvic floor PT should be on your to-do list to rule in or out a pelvic floor problem. Leave no stone unturned!
Painful sex could be due to a pelvic floor dysfunction. It’s been widely accepted by many women that sex just shouldn’t be enjoyable. If pain is keeping you from pain-free sex, it could be really helpful to know what’s going on with your pelvic floor! Teaching the muscles to relax and contract when you want them to improve their function for all activities, including sex.
I hope this was helpful! If you are having any issues with these functions, holler at us with questions!
Dr. Rachel Atufunwa PT, DPT