Debunking Pelvic Floor Myths

There are many myths about pelvic floor muscle exercises. Here we explore further the most common myths and misconceptions and reveal the truth between fact and fiction.

I don't need to do pelvic floor muscle exercises

Everyone (including women who haven't had a baby, and men) can benefit from doing pelvic floor muscle exercises. For women, pelvic floor muscle training is important to control incontinence which may start during pregnancy. Pelvic floor muscle exercises done during pregnancy will help the recovery of pelvic floor muscle function and bladder control after the birth of the child. New research shows that strong pelvic floor muscles will not make birthing more difficult.

For men, pelvic floor muscles not only help to control the bladder and bowel but they also assist in sexual function.

I can't sit on the floor therefore I can't do them

Some people think that pelvic floor muscle exercises are done on the floor. In reality however, these exercises can be done in any position. The word 'floor' merely refers to their position at the bottom (or floor) of the pelvis. In fact, they should especially be done standing up as control of urine leakage is usually most necessary when upright.

Men don't have a pelvic floor

Men do have pelvic floor muscles. These muscles can even be trained to improve bladder control after prostate surgery. The pelvic floor is made up of the sling-shaped muscles which run from the pubic bone to the base of the spine, supporting the bladder, bowel and uterus in women and the bladder and bowel in men. There are also 19 tiny individual muscles embedded in it, some of which are vital for sexual function.Like all muscles, the pelvic floor can weaken over time. If the muscles are too loose they don't support the bladder or bowel and this may lead to leaking from either area, as well as erectile dysfunction.