Are discussions with your friends your only source of information about the pelvic floor? Are you interested in learning more about pelvic floor health? Do you want to know the truth about common pelvic floor myths?
Pelvic floor problems are not uncommon. Fortunately, with recent advancements in physiotherapy, surgery is not the only solution for pelvic health problems. By incorporating good health practices, these problems can be avoided.
The pelvic floor is made up of muscles that support internal organs. The pelvic floor muscles regulate the functioning of your bladder and bowel, and pelvic floor dysfunction can be a source of significant discomfort and unease among individuals.
Reliable and accurate information can help dispel myths about the pelvic floor. Read on to learn about the three most common pelvic floor myths and the truth about them.
Myth 1: Only Women Experience Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
It is a well-known fact that pelvic floor dysfunction is more common in women. This is because one of the most common causes of pelvic floor dysfunction is the stress of childbirth. In addition, the shape of the female pelvis and genetic predisposition to pelvic floor dysfunction also plays a role in this gender disparity.
However, this does not mean that men do not experience pelvic floor dysfunction. Prolonged constipation and trauma to the pelvic floor can also cause pelvic floor dysfunction in men. Pelvic floor disorders in men can present similarly to women, and men may also experience pain during erection and ejaculation due to pelvic floor abnormalities.
Myth 2: Kegels Will Fix All Your Pelvic Health Concerns
Kegels are pelvic floor exercises that seek to reinforce and strengthen the pelvic floor. Although Kegels are effective when dysfunction results from the weakness of pelvic floor muscles, they are not the solution to every pelvic health problem.
In some instances, Kegels can be counterproductive. For example, in addition to pelvic floor weakness, continuous contractions and spasms of the pelvic floor can also cause dysfunction. Kegels can actually worsen pelvic floor spasms and negatively affect bowel and bladder function.
In other instances, Kegels may be ineffective in addressing underlying pelvic health problems due to the lack of neuromuscular coordination amongst muscles. In other words, the muscles do not function well together and are out of sync with each other. Here, Kegels are completely ineffective in addressing pelvic health concerns.
Myth 3: An Individual’s Lifestyle/Habit Does not Affect Urinary and Bowel Dysfunction
While it is widely believed that pelvic floor physiotherapy can undo unhealthy lifestyle habits, this is simply not true. Good lifestyle habits are imperative for the healthy functioning of the pelvic floor.
Chronic constipation resulting from consuming processed foods and not drinking enough water can lead to pelvic floor ailments. This is because excessive straining due to constipation can damage and weaken the pelvic floor. Consuming a more natural diet that is rich in fibre and adequately hydrating can help prevent these problems.
Similarly, urinating too often, either habitually or due to caffeinated drinks, can also strain and weaken the pelvic floor. You should limit the intake of such beverages and urinate only when you have to. This minimizes the strain on your pelvic floor and helps you avoid problems in the future.
Want To Learn More About The Pelvic Floor?
The pelvic floor is a broad topic, and these myths scratch the surface. If you suffer from pelvic floor problems or want to learn more about pelvic floor health, the trained professionals at Intrinsi’s wellness and rehabilitation facility in Calgary can help. Call 403-229-9214 or visit our website to book an appointment.
