Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Three words that completely terrify me. Not just for myself, but because of the statistics that surround them.

How many of you actually know anything about Pelvic Floor Dysfunction? Would you even know if you had it? What are the warning signs? And who on earth do you go to for help?

So many questions, right?!

When I started learning about women’s health so I could help as many women as possible, it was a real eye-opener. I had no idea that Women’s Health Physios even existed — or that you could be experiencing pelvic floor issues and not realise it.

So, let’s start at the beginning.

What is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction (PFD)?

PFD occurs when your pelvic floor muscles aren’t doing their job properly — supporting you and your lifestyle. That can mean they’re too weak, but it can also mean they’re too tight… and yes, that’s just as problematic.

These muscles are responsible for some pretty important things, including:

• Allowing us to say yes or no to wee and poo (very important life skill 😉)

• Playing a big role in our sex life (yep — orgasms are connected to the pelvic floor!)

• Supporting the weight of our pelvic organs

• Supporting pelvic stability and everyday movement

The good news? You are never too old to start working these muscles.

What are the signs?

Incontinence is a symptom of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction — and here’s the kicker: there are many different types of incontinence.

These include:

• Stress incontinence – leaking when you jump, laugh, cough or sneeze

• Urgency incontinence – suddenly needing to go and not being able to hold it

• Frequency – going too often (more than 1–3 times a day and more than once a night)

• Difficulty emptying – sometimes linked to prolapse

• Hypertonic pelvic floor – muscles that are too tight

• Loose stools

• Prolapse of any degree

  
  

And this part is important, so read it again if you need to:

Incontinence is common — but it is not normal.

Who Do You See for Help with Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Yes — you can absolutely seek support from your personal trainer, and this is something I can help with long-term. Strength, movement, and lifestyle support all matter.

However, the first professional you should see if you suspect pelvic floor dysfunction is a Women’s Health Physiotherapist.

A Women’s Health Physio is trained to:

• Diagnose pelvic floor disorders and related health issues

• Assess whether you can correctly activate your pelvic floor muscles

• Identify whether your muscles are weak, tight, or a combination of both

• Guide safe and effective treatment before you begin structured training

This step is crucial.

A Very Important Note About Kegels

Let’s clear this up once and for all:

Doing your Kegels is not enough.

In fact, research shows that up to 50% of women don’t perform Kegels correctly — and many are unknowingly making their symptoms worse.

When done incorrectly, Kegels can create downward pressure, which may increase the risk of pelvic organ prolapse rather than prevent it.

If you have any signs or symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction, please seek guidance from a qualified medical professional before attempting pelvic floor exercises on your own.

How Common Is Pelvic Floor Dysfunction?

Around 1 in 3 women experience pelvic floor dysfunction.

That number is huge — and what’s even more concerning is how many women have no idea they’re living with it.

And let’s be honest for a moment…Your sex life could be sooooo much better with a deeper understanding of your own pelvic health. Knowledge really is power here.

Need Help or Not Sure Where to Start?

If you’d like more information or need guidance on finding the right Women’s Health Physiotherapist or support team, please reach out.

I’m here to help — in whatever way you need.

And remember:

Love your roadmap. It shows where you’ve been and tells your story. It doesn’t mean you can’t find your new strength and continue to power forward.