Pelvic Floor Exercises

 
yoga-squat-pose-for-pelvic-floor.jpeg
 

Intensive and regular pelvic floor exercises help by both strengthening and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles so they become firm and supportive, but not overactive. Many women will have a major improvement in or recovery from symptoms of stress urinary incontinence by learning effective pelvic floor exercises, thus avoiding or delaying the need for surgery.

The pelvic floor is composed of a thin sheet of muscle fibers and associated connective tissue which spans the area underneath the pelvis between the pubic bone at the front and the sacrum or tail bone at the back.

The pelvic floor muscles contract when you cough, sneeze or strain, helping to prevent the involuntary leakage of urine.

  • They help to support the organs in your abdomen, especially when you are standing.

  • They help to protect the pelvic organs from external damage.

  • They help to hold the pelvic organs, like the bladder, in the correct position.

  • They help in the control of passing of urine, gas, and bowel motions.

  • They play a role in sexual function during intercourse.

In order for the pelvic floor muscles to carry out their function well, they need to  be fit and adequately toned just like any other muscle in the body.

Thabo Moleme