Fitness and Your Pelvic Floor

Exercise is an important aspect of healthy living. However, if you have, or are at risk  of pelvic floor problems, it's important to tailor your exercise program to suit your needs. 

Who's at risk for pelvic floor problems:

People who are most at risk of pelvic floor problems are:

• pregnant women

• women who have recently, or ever, had a baby

• women who are going through, or have gone through, menopause

• women who have undergone gynecological surgery such as a hysterectomy

• men who have undergone surgery for prostate cancer, and

• athletes such as runners, gymnasts or snowboarders.

This risk is higher if you:

• have a history of back pain

• have ever experienced injury or surgery to your abdomen or pelvis

• are constipated frequently

• strain when you go to the toilet

• have a chronic cough or sneeze, including those linked to asthma, smoking or hayfever

• are overweight, obese or have a Body Mass Index over 25, or

• constantly lift heavy weights, either at the gym, or as part of your job.

If you fall into one of these categories it’s important that you see the pelvic floor therapists at The Center for Pelvic Floor and Core Rehabilitation.   They will show you how to safely exercise for complete health and fitness!