Pelvic floor exercises

The bottom of the abdominal cavity is enclosed by the pelvic floor. The pelvic floor consists of a system of muscles and supportive connective tissue. This entire systems ensures that urine, stool and the in-utero foetus do not just fall out of the body. Internal organs (such as the bladder, rectum, and uterus) stay in place due to the support exerted by the pelvic floor and the fact that they are attached to the abdominal wall with special connective tissues, the ligaments.

The pelvic floor has specific muscles that react automatically and unconsciously when there are pressure changes in the abdominal cavity. Pelvic floor exercises place special focus on training these muscles. They are trained by pulling the pelvic floor muscles together to stop the stream of urine as pressure in the abdominal cavity increases. A stronger pelvic floor will help decrease or resolve urinary leakage symptoms.

You may be taught these exercises by a physiotherapist. You will need to repeat them daily. Not every physiotherapist is trained in how to correctly teach these exercises. Please consult your GP or our department. Your physician will know what providers in your area have the appropriate training to help you learn the correct exercises.

Latest publication date: 13/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Ameye Filip