What is the Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and connective tissues that form a sling or hammock-like structure at the bottom of the pelvis. In females, the pelvic floor plays a crucial role in supporting the pelvic organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles have several important functions:
Support: The pelvic floor provides support for the pelvic organs and helps maintain their proper position within the pelvis.
Continence: The muscles of the pelvic floor play a key role in urinary and faecal continence. They help control the release of urine and faeces and contribute to maintaining continence.
Sexual Function: The pelvic floor is involved in sexual function due to the role it plays in the support of the vagina and contributes to sexual sensation.
Stability: The pelvic floor muscles contribute to the stability of the pelvis and the spine. They work in conjunction with other core muscles to provide overall stability and support.
Childbirth: During childbirth, the pelvic floor muscles undergo significant stress. Proper functioning of these muscles is important for the success of labour and delivery, and they may be stretched or damaged during the process.
Pelvic floor exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing these muscles, are often recommended to help strengthen the pelvic floor and maintain its function. Maintaining a healthy pelvic floor is important for overall pelvic health, especially during pregnancy, childbirth, and as women age. If there are concerns or issues related to the pelvic floor, consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a pelvic floor physical therapist or gynaecologist, is advisable for proper evaluation and guidance.
