What is the pelvic floor?

It is the set of muscles and ligaments that surround the abdominal cavity in its lower part. Its best known function is to retain the viscera of the abdomen and pelvis, that is, to support the digestive, urinary and reproductive systems; and ensure its normal operation. The pelvic floor adapts to our movement, maintaining an adequate tension that holds the organs inside the pelvis during it. When the pelvic floor is weakened, problems arise that can affect the functioning of the pelvic organs.

What factors influence or why does this muscle weaken?

Chronic constipation is one of the main risk factors for pelvic dysfunctions. Pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and menopause are also factors that damage the pelvic floor, causing vaginal atrophy and dryness.

High-impact exercises, such as volleyball or running, personalized training, tend to weaken these muscles, by absorbing the loads and pressure that these sports require. The pelvic floor is not an exclusive subject for women but also for men who have undergone recent prostate operations.

How can healthcare professionals help me to solve these problems?

Pelviperineal Physiotherapy is a therapeutic discipline that allows the evaluation and treatment of pelvic floor dysfunctions. The physical examination includes visual and palpatory examination, muscle assessment, assessment of pelvic, perineal, lumbar and abdominal statics, as well as the mobility of the pelvic organs. Based on the data obtained in the different tests, the physiotherapists establish treatment objectives and select the most appropriate pelviperineal reeducation techniques to achieve these objectives.

Indications and contraindications.

A weakened pelvic floor can lead to:

• Mild or heavy urinary incontinence.
• Constipation.
• Abdominal gas
• Prolapse: detachment of the intra-abdominal organs.
• Lumbar pain
• Sexual dysfunctions: loss of sensation and even pain during sexual intercourse.

Before the appearance of any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult a specialist. Consult with our gynecologist and / or with a physiotherapist specialized in pelvic floor, to assess the state of our pelvic muscles, as it is of vital importance.

Anticipation of treatment and effectiveness of therapy

With the treatment of the pelvic floor, it is possible to significantly increase the tone of these muscles and a greater effectiveness in their contractile activity, thus helping to more effectively support the abdominal organs, favoring their correct functioning.

With the treatment of the abdominal muscles, myofascial tissue and hypopressive exercises, a reduction of the abdominal perimeter is achieved and a greater effectiveness and work of the abdominal muscles (CORE).

Also including diaphragmatic work (upper part of the abdominal cavity), with relaxation techniques and respiratory reeducation, a good functioning of the general set of the trunk is achieved, which provides stability and makes the muscles work in synergy, for the prevention of possible future problems in the pelvic cavity.