1. The Goal Isn’t to Make It “Tight” by Doing Kegels All Day
When people think of pelvic floor health, kegels often come to mind. While kegels are exercises that contract and lift the pelvic floor, aiming to make the pelvic floor constantly “tight” isn’t beneficial. The goal is to have a functional pelvic floor—one that can contract, relax, and adapt as needed. Overworking the muscles through endless kegels can actually lead to more harm than good, creating tension and a lack of functionality. Pelvic floor health is about balance, coordination, and learning how to engage and release these muscles. For more information about your pelvic floor, check out our page dedicated to it!
2. Your Breathing Mechanics Affect Your Pelvic Floor
The diaphragm and pelvic floor work together as a team, moving in sync with each breath. When you inhale, the diaphragm and pelvic floor lower; when you exhale, they lift. Dysfunctional breathing patterns—like shallow, chest-only breathing—can disrupt this natural rhythm and lead to issues with pelvic floor coordination. Practicing diaphragmatic (belly) breathing can help encourage pelvic floor relaxation, promote proper engagement, and reduce unwanted tension.
3. Chronic Stress Can Lead to Chronic Tension in the Pelvic Floor
Stress doesn’t just affect the mind; it affects the body too. When you’re stressed, your body often responds by tensing muscles, including those in your pelvic floor. Over time, chronic stress can result in chronically tight and overactive pelvic floor muscles. This tension can contribute to pain, discomfort, and even issues with bladder and bowel function. Incorporating relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and mindfulness practices can help reduce pelvic floor tension and support better overall wellness.
4. Surgery Isn’t the Only Option for Prolapse
Pelvic organ prolapse, where one or more of the pelvic organs shift downward, is a common concern, especially after childbirth. While surgery is an option for severe cases, it’s far from the only solution. Pelvic floor physical therapy and specific strengthening exercises are very good at helping reduce symptoms, improve support, and enhance pelvic floor function. Working with a qualified pelvic floor therapist can help you learn how to manage or even reverse mild to moderate prolapse without surgery.
5. Your Pelvic Floor Can Be Rehabbed After Birth
Childbirth can significantly impact the pelvic floor, whether from the weight of carrying a baby, hormonal shifts, or the act of giving birth itself. However, the postpartum period is an excellent time to rehab and restore pelvic floor function. By working with a pelvic floor therapist and following a structured rehab program, many new parents can regain strength and reduce symptoms like incontinence or prolapse. A personalized approach to rebuilding these muscles can help improve function, stability, and overall quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Your pelvic floor is an essential part of your core that plays a huge role in many aspects of your daily life. Understanding these often-overlooked facts can help you approach pelvic floor health with a more informed, balanced perspective. Whether you’re postpartum, managing stress, or simply aiming for a stronger core, taking care of your pelvic floor will set you on a path to overall wellness. Schedule an appointment today!
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