Why is pelvic health important?

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles and ligaments that support the bladder, uterus (womb) and bowel. For a number of reasons including childbirth, heavy lifting or high impact exercise the Pelvic floor can be weakened. One of the common symptoms of a weakened pelvic floor is leaking urine when coughing, running, sneezing or laughing.

Why bother?

Maybe its embarrassment but whatever the reason, it’s one of those health issues we rarely discuss and many people go for months or years without addressing this issue. Pelvic floor muscles can naturally thin as oestrogen levels fall in your 40s, so its recommended women should exercise their pelvic floor muscles each and every day, to prevent weakness and improve strength.

What do I need to know?

There are women’s Health and Fitness Coaches who, specialise in pelvic floor and core health. They offer specific exercise and support sessions to focus on strengthening your pelvic floor muscles and gaining greater control over your bladder and bowel.

The bottom line

Exercising weak muscles regularly, over a period of time can strengthen them and make them work effectively again. But it takes time, effort and practice. You should start to see some benefits after a few weeks, however, it can take two to five months for improvement to occur.

Pilates is a great way to strengthen you core and pelvic floor.