A little cough, a laugh, a jump and a few drops of urine leak out unintentionally. What many women only mention quietly or dismiss with an embarrassed smile is a widespread issue. Urine leakage doesn’t just affect older people or women after giving birth. The pelvic floor can also lose its holding function during the menopause or due to chronic stress. There are effective ways to do something about this that are suitable for everyday use.
What is the pelvic floor – and what does it do for us?
The pelvic floor consists of several layers of muscles and connective tissue that close off the pelvis at the bottom like an elastic hammock. It supports the bladder, bowel and uterus, is responsible for holding back urine and stool and also plays an important role in sexuality. At the same time, it is part of our “body core” and works closely with the abdominal and back muscles and the diaphragm.
Why do pelvic floor problems occur?
Common causes of pelvic floor weakness and the resulting incontinence are:
- Births
- Hormonal changes during the menopause that weaken the tissue
- Surgery in the pelvic area
- Chronic cough, obesity or constipation
- Incorrect loads and poor posture
- Lack of body awareness, e.g. due to lack of exercise
What can be done? Physiotherapy can provide targeted help
Pelvic floor therapy in physiotherapy begins with a careful consultation and a gentle examination. The aim is to restore or improve the function of the pelvic floor. We use various methods to achieve this.
Pelvic floor therapy in physiotherapy begins with a thorough consultation and examination. The aim is to restore or improve the function of the pelvic floor. We use various methods to achieve this:
- Awareness exercise Many women don’t even know exactly where their pelvic floor is or how to tense it specifically. This is the first step.
- Strengthening exercises: Targeted exercises (also known as Kegel exercises) build up the muscles to support continence.
- Relaxation and breathing: A tense pelvic floor can also cause problems. The right breathing technique helps you to let go.
- Everyday training: How do I lift correctly? How do I sit in a way that protects my pelvic floor? Small changes with a big effect.
- Manual techniques: Depending on the findings, gentle manual solutions are also used.
Osteopathy as useful support
Osteopathic treatment techniques complement physiotherapeutic work very well. Especially when there are functional connections, for example between the diaphragm, pelvis, spine or internal organs, osteopathy can help to release tension and restore balance in the body.
Visceral techniques (e.g. mobilization of the bladder or uterus) or craniosacral methods support the harmonization of the nervous system, which is partly responsible for pelvic floor control.
We offer osteopathic support from our experienced osteopath Ben Eltner.
Pelvic floor therapy also has a preventative effect
You don’t have to wait for childbirth or the onset of the menopause. Young women also benefit from a good body awareness and early training of the pelvic floor. If you know your pelvic floor and know how to use it correctly, you can often avoid incontinence altogether.
Do you suffer from urine leakage, an unstable feeling in your pelvis or simply want more control and security? Feel free to make an appointment at our practice – we will take our time and support you with professional expertise and empathy.