Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Addressing Common Misconceptions and Myths
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a condition that affects many individuals, yet it is often misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions. Whether you’ve thought that pelvic floor issues only affect women, is a normal part of ageing, or can’t be reversed, we’re here to debunk the myths about the often taboo topic of pelvic floor issues. The good news is pelvic floor dysfunction is a treatable condition. Understanding the pelvic floor, how to strengthen it, and prevent dysfunction, can significantly improve quality of life, movement and ability to do the things you love.
First things first: What actually is your pelvic floor?
The pelvic floor is often somewhat of a mystery to most of us. Although we’ve heard of it, until you begin to experience problems such as an urgent need to use the restroom, you’ve likely not explored it in much detail. However, it’s not an area of your body that should be overlooked, as it plays a vital role in the functions of your pelvic region. These include ensuring your major organs are held in place, providing the ability for you to remove waste from your body (yep - we’re talking about peeing and pooping!) and ensuring blood supply is going to all the right places during sexual intercourse.
The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and tissues that provide support to the organs in the pelvic region, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. These muscles stretch from your pubic bone at the front, to your tailbone at the back of your body, and attach to your sitting bones on either side. Training the muscles of your pelvic floor helps provide stability in your pelvis, and ensure that your pelvic region is working as it should be.
Understanding pelvic floor dysfunction
Understanding the causes and symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction is essential to debunking the myths. When your pelvic floor muscles and tissues weaken or become impaired, a variety of symptoms and concerns begin to appear. These include urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, pelvic pain, and sexual dysfunction, among others. Even though it’s most commonly associated in our minds as a result of pregnancy, pelvic floor dysfunction can affect anyone, of any age, as it can be caused by a variety of factors, including pregnancy, childbirth, obesity, diabetes, chronic constipation, hormonal changes and ageing. It is therefore essential to understand that pelvic floor dysfunction is not exclusive to any gender or age group.
Common misconceptions about pelvic floor dysfunction
Myth: Pelvic floor dysfunction only affects women
Pelvic floor dysfunction is a sensitive topic that is often stigmatised and not openly discussed. While it is true that women experience pelvic floor issues more frequently due to pregnancy, childbirth and hormonal changes, men can also be affected. Men may experience pelvic floor dysfunction due to conditions such as prostate problems or surgery. It is crucial to recognise that this condition can impact anyone, regardless of their gender.
Myth: Pelvic floor dysfunction is a normal part of ageing
Another widespread misconception is that pelvic floor dysfunction is an inevitable part of ageing. While it is true that ageing can weaken the pelvic floor muscles, as well as changes in hormones that occur as a result of menopause, leading to dysfunction, it is not something that individuals have to accept as a normal part of getting older. Pelvic floor dysfunction is both a preventable and treatable condition, not something you just have to live with as you age.
Myth: Pelvic floor dysfunction is only caused by childbirth
When the words pelvic floor are uttered, they’re often paired with conversations around childbirth and pregnancy. Whilst the changes that occur in a common cause of pelvic floor dysfunction in women, it is not the sole factor. Other factors, such as obesity, chronic constipation, and ageing, can also contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor muscles. It is essential to understand that pelvic floor dysfunction can have various causes and is not limited to childbirth alone.
Myth: Kegel exercises are the only solution for pelvic floor dysfunction
Kegel exercises, which involve contracting and relaxing the pelvic floor muscles, are often recommended as a way to strengthen the pelvic floor. While Kegel exercises can be beneficial, they are not the only solution for pelvic floor dysfunction. Treatment options can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Seeking professional help is crucial to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
One of the biggest myths surrounding pelvic floor dysfunction is that it is a normal part of ageing or something that individuals have to live with. This misconception often leads individuals to ignore their symptoms or dismiss them as a natural part of getting older. Symptoms such as urinary incontinence, constipation, pelvic pain, or sexual dysfunction can all be signs indicating that you need to address your pelvic floor strength and stability.
Early intervention is key when it comes to pelvic floor dysfunction. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of improving your symptoms and overall quality of life. Don't let the myths and misconceptions hold you back from seeking the support you need.