We may first become aware to the pelvic floor because of a problem such as unwanted loss of urine, prolapse of the bladder or uterus, or erection problems. Back pain and digestion problems can also be related troubles. Targeted pelvic floor training can often bring relief.

The pelvic floor in a network of muscles that closes of the “bowl” at the bottom of the pelvis. Its functions include:

• Supporting the pelvic organs (rectum, bladder, uterus)

• Keeping the openings of the rectum, bladder and urethra closed. In other words, the pelvic floor helps to keep us continent.

Therefore urinary incontinence means a person is not always in control of when urine comes out, and fecal incontinence means that a person is not always in control of when stool comes out of the body.

Although incontinence products care readily available in drug stores, the subject remains a societal taboo. Many incontinence sufferers don’t talk about it either with a friend or doctor. Whether a person leaks urine when coughing or sneezing, or must frequently use the toilet, it is important to understand that incontinence can often be improved or alleviated. While pelvic floor exercises and lifestyle changes can bring improvement, other times medication and surgery are called for.

After prostate surgery, many men experience incontinence for the first time in their adult lives. In addition to reducing urinary leakage, many people who do pelvic floor exercises find that their posture improves. A strong pelvic floor also enhances core strength.

Ligaments and the pelvic floor support the pelvic organs. If an organ has prolapsed, not only pelvic floor exercises are important, but the position that the exercises are done in. Sometimes surgery can be avoided, but even if that is not the case, pelvic floor exercises are important after surgery for providing additional support. Abdominal exercises must be modified in any case.

In summary, you can benefit from pelvic floor exercises if you are:

• Male or female

• Leak when you cough/sneeze/laugh/lift

• Have a prolapsed pelvic organ

• Have had abdominal or prostate surgery

• Frequently go to the toilet

• Hope to avoid most of the above problems

• Have ever given birth

• Are approaching or in menopause (when many of the above symptoms begin or worsen)