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The Pelvic Floor – Exercises for life
© 2007 Dr. Len Kliman 
The pelvic floor is the supportive “hammock – like” layer of muscles that supports the pelvic organs – the bladder, bowel and uterus and the passages that lead out of the body – the vagina, the urethra (outlet from the bladder) and the anus (back passage).
Like any other muscle group, the pelvic floor needs to be strengthened by exercise to avoid it becoming weakened and less efficient. This is particularly important during pregnancy when the growing uterus may cause the pelvic muscles to sag. Other reasons for the pelvic floor muscles to weaken are – constipation, lack of exercise, heavy lifting, being overweight and family history.
Signs that your pelvic floor is weak are incontinence of urine (especially during exertion such as sneezing, coughing or lifting), a feeling of heaviness in the vagina and tampons slipping out.
The pelvic floor muscles can be strengthened provided that they are regularly exercised. Either train yourself to do them, ask your doctor or consult a physiotherapist who has an interest in women’s health. Our office has a list of recommended physiotherapists. Pelvic floor exercises can be done anytime, anywhere. It may take several months before you notice the benefit, so persistence is essential.
