Understanding the Marvelous Function of the Pelvic Floor

I have said it before and I will say it again; the human body is a masterpiece of intricate design, with each part serving a unique purpose in maintaining health and vitality.

If I could do my time again I would work in a mortuary as a pathologist; the human body absolute fascinates me. How can something so clever and intricate be functioning and working, until it isn’t? it absolutely fascinates me, I’ve seen a few postmortems in my time and every time I just want to get in there and understand what's happened. Anyway, never say never… 🤷🏽‍♀️🤷🏼‍♀️

Anyways, back to the pelvic floor, when we look at the fine mechanical workings of the body one often overlooked but vital component is the pelvic floor – a group of muscles that plays a significant role in our overall well-being.

So why is the pelvic floor so important, what does it do and why is it, quite literally, at the core of everything?

**The Foundation of Support**

Imagine the pelvic floor as a supportive hammock nestled at the base of your pelvis. Comprising a complex network of muscles, ligaments, and tissues, this unsung hero provides essential support to your internal organs, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. Just like a strong foundation supports a building, a healthy pelvic floor is essential for maintaining the integrity of your body's structure.

Following childbearing the pelvic floor comes off damaged and pushed to its limits – quite literally. I always liken it to an elastic band. Over stretched with the weight of a baby pushing down upon it for 9 months.

**Bladder and Bowel Control**

One of the most well-known functions of the pelvic floor is its role in maintaining bladder and bowel control. The muscles of the pelvic floor work harmoniously to keep the bladder closed and prevent leaks, offering you confidence and comfort during everyday activities. Similarly, these muscles assist in maintaining proper bowel function, preventing untimely urges and promoting healthy digestion.

But if we return to the over stretched elasticated pelvic floor following childbirth there is little support there for the bladder. This is why mums experience leakage and the worry that they can not hold a wee for very long. You do not have a weak bladder, but a weak pelvic floor supporting the bladder. 

**Core Stability and Posture**

You might be surprised to learn that the pelvic floor is a crucial component of your core musculature. A strong pelvic floor forms the foundation for core stability, working in tandem with abdominal and back muscles to provide support for your spine and maintain optimal posture. When your pelvic floor is functioning well, you'll experience improved overall body stability and reduced lower back discomfort.

When pregnant your hips have externally rotated and pushed outwards, to house bubba and allow for bubbas exit, well this rotation remains post birth. The excess pressure with a rotated pelvis puts further strain on the pelvic floor muscles.

What’s more its give the “mum bum” a flat bum where the muscles this is because inn an externally rotated pelvis, the pelvic floor muscles become shorter and tighter.

Tight pelvic floor muscles have a feeling of heaviness, bulginess or pain, a bit like a prolapse

**Intimate Well-being**

The pelvic floor plays a significant role in intimate well-being. Strong pelvic floor muscles are vital for healthy sexual function, contributing to sensations of pleasure and supporting healthy sexual experiences. For postnatal mothers, a well-functioning pelvic floor can address concerns related to discomfort and help restore confidence and comfort.

The Power & importance of Pregnancy and Postnatal Recovery

During pregnancy, the pelvic floor experiences increased pressure due to the growing uterus and baby tucked away cooking nicely.

This makes maintaining pelvic floor strength even more crucial.

Postnatally, the pelvic floor can be weakened, leading to issues such as urinary incontinence and discomfort. Engaging in targeted exercises and practices can aid in recovery and restore pelvic floor function.

Recovering post birth is not just about doing Kegel exercise; it is about so much more.

Before you think that sitting there reading this and squeezing and holding your nether regions is enough to help the pelvic floor you also need to look at:

• lengthening the pelvic floor muscles.
• re-engage the core and switch it on.
• Correcting your breathing technique.
• Learn to lift again (not just in the gym but simple things like the kettle or our children)
• Strengthen your core and addressing your posture.
• Start by working on correcting the niggles and ailments to build a solid foundation to go forward on.

Caring for your pelvic floor involves more than just knowing its function – it's about proactive self-care. Incorporating pelvic floor exercises into your routine can help maintain strength and flexibility. Being mindful that daily practices like Kegels, deep breathing, and mindful movement can all contribute to a healthier pelvic floor; its not a one trick pony to fix things.

Remember, the pelvic floor is a vital part of your body's intricate system. Its proper function affects not only physical well-being but also emotional and intimate aspects of your life. Nurturing your pelvic floor health is an investment in your overall vitality, ensuring you lead a life of comfort, confidence, and strength.

Target and strengthen your pelvic floor with our Basingstoke Postnatal Core Strengthening Course

If you're a mum looking to embrace the transformative journey of postpartum recovery, our Basingstoke Postnatal Core Course is what you need!

Designed specifically for all new mothers and beyond (it’s never too late to focus on your core) seeking to strengthen their pelvic floor, regain core stability, and address postpartum challenges, this course will tick all the boxes and comes with addition cuppas, biscuits and chitchat!

At MummaBfit, we understand the unique needs of postnatal women, which is why our Mum and Baby Exercise sessions offer the perfect blend of fitness and bonding time. Our ladies-only gym environment ensures you have the support and community of like-minded mothers on the same journey.

Join our community and experience the magic of guided exercises, expert advice, and a space where you can focus on your well-being without any distractions.

Our Basingstoke Postnatal Core Course is a testament to our commitment to your health, strength, and confidence. Enroll now and unlock the potential of your pelvic floor, embracing a life of comfort, vitality, and renewed self-assurance.

Looking after you and ensuring you are firing on all cylinders is our priority and we're here to guide you every step of the way.

Click here for all the course dets!!

Catch you laters on the next blog, I hope this has been helpful to you if there is anything you want to know about anything mentioned above or a topic you would like me to cover then please get in contact and let me know! 

Take care

Vicky x