What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissue that serves as the “basement” of your pelvis. The structure is responsible for supporting your pelvic organs while playing a key role in bladder, bowel and sexual function. The pelvic floor muscles work closely with the diaphragm, abdominals and back muscles to provide core stability/support.
How Does Male Pelvic Floor Differ from Female Pelvic Floor?
The male and female pelvic floor both serve similar functions in the context of urinary, faecal and sexual control but differences are mainly due to anatomical variations.The male pelvic floor supports the bladder, rectum and prostate function while the female pelvic floor supports the bladder, uterus, vagina and the rectum. The male urethra is over 16cm longer than the female equivalent which leads to increased risk of incontinence for females.
What are Common Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions?
The Pelvic floor generally can come under two common dysfunctions being weakness (underactive) and tightness (overactive). Weakness/underactive pelvic floor is associated with incontinence and erectile dysfunction. An overactive/tight pelvic floor is associated with incomplete urinary and bowel emptying. In some cases the pelvic floor can be both tight and weak. Common causes of pelvic floor dysfunctions in men include previous prostate cancer treatment (commonly radiation therapy), chronic straining, stress/anxiety and pelvic trauma/injury.
How can Exercise be Used?
The goal of exercise will depend on the type of dysfunction however there will be elements of both strengthening and relaxing the pelvic floor to support effective function. The initial stage of strengthening is for clients to recognise their pelvic floor muscles which can include using a variety of cues. A popular cue for males is to replicate the feeling of submerging into a cold pool of water. Then it is important to be able to produce this muscle contraction for sustained periods and when completing daily tasks. To relax the pelvic floor we use breathing as a tool as the diaphragm closely works with the pelvic floor. As we breathe out and relax, so do our pelvic floor muscles. This is only a snippet of how exercise for pelvic floor function is important
Who should you see about your Pelvic Floor?
The conversation of the pelvic floor can be challenging but it is important to have as it can limit us greatly by getting in the way of what we want to do. By starting now you can see clear differences in your pelvic floor health. A start can be contacting your GP for initial pathway options and considerations depending on your presentations. If you have recently had surgery or experience acute trauma please see one of our physiotherapists who can commence with passive treatment and early stage exercises. If you are past this stage please collaborate with one of our Exercise Physiologists who can help integrate pelvic floor exercises into your daily life now and long term. If this blog resonates with you then please book in with one of our amazing allied health who can help you manage your pelvic floor concerns.
Written by:
Alex Pears – Exercise Physiologist