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Popular Pelvic Floor Myths You Need To Stop Believing!
The pelvic floor comprises a set of muscles spanning between the pubic bone and tailbone in both males and females. Their main functions are to support the pelvic organs (bladder, rectum, and prostate in men or the uterus and vagina in women) and to control the surrounding sphincters. The latter structures play a critical role in the maintenance of continence.
It appears that, nowadays, the general public has little-to-no concept regarding pelvic floor dysfunction . To add to that, misconceptions about the condition arise due to confusion.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to some of the most widespread pelvic floor myths and debunk them. As we go, we’ll also give you tips on what to do if you’re experiencing pelvic health issues.
Myth 1: Only Women Experience Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Let us first introduce the terminology. Pelvic floor dysfunction is defined as the inability to coordinate your pelvic floor muscles. Symptoms range from urinary incontinence, painful urination, constipation, pain in the pelvic region, and more.
Although this condition is much more common in females mainly because of childbirth, males can experience it too. After all, men also have pelvic muscles vulnerable to trauma and infections that can lead to dysfunction.
While it’s also true that the male’s pelvic floor is usually more tenacious, men must also take care of their pelvic health. What’s more, the condition can restrict penile blood flow and lead to symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Myth 2: Kegels Will Fix All of Your Pelvic Health Concerns
If you do a quick internet search, Kegels will usually be the first pelvic floor exercises to be recommended for strengthening your pelvic floor. Although they are effective in maintaining pelvic health to a certain extent, Kegels are often unable to fix all the issues. Treating pelvic floor dysfunction always requires an individualized approach with an exercise routine targeting specific muscles.
Additionally, experts warn that Kegels might not be fit for everyone as there are some risks involved. These are complex exercises that, if performed incorrectly, may have a reverse effect and further weaken the pelvic floor. Besides, it’s important not to self-diagnose and opt for a professional evaluation from a specialist who can guide you to the right pelvic floor exercises .
Myth 3: An Individual’s Lifestyle and Habits Don’t Affect Urinary or Bowel Dysfunction
Contrary to widespread assumptions, lifestyle and habits directly affect the symptoms of urinary and bowel dysfunction.
For example, keeping your body in poor posture while standing or sitting for extended periods can lead not only to back pain but pelvic dysfunction as well. Poor posture alters the proper muscle length-tension ratio, which leads to improper muscle contraction. The latter causes reduced blood flow resulting in urinary and/or bowel dysfunction symptoms and pain.
Other factors that put pressure on the pelvic floor and contribute to the condition include being overweight, doing heavy weightlifting, and having chronic constipation. Interestingly, research suggests that losing weight can alleviate urinary incontinence due to the reduced pressure on the pelvic muscles.
Book an Appointment Today!
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction or you’re simply concerned about your pelvic floor health, you can easily opt for a consultation with a specialist. It’s crucial not to attempt to self-diagnose as such symptoms can arise from various conditions.
Leave all the hard work for us and reach out by scheduling your next appointment at BodyWorx Vitality today! We’ll create an individualized pelvic floor therapy tailored to your specific needs.
