What is the pelvic floor?
The pelvic floor is a bowl of muscles at the bottom of the pelvis that helps to control bowel, bladder, and sexual function. It consists of three layers from superficial to deep that have differing functions.
The first and second layers (meaning the more superficial) are smaller muscles that all come together to create the openings that allow for essential bodily functions. The openings are the urethra, vagina (females), and anus. The functions (you guessed it!) are urination, sexual function, and defecation.
The third (deepest) layer is best thought of as a circular hammock that slings from the pubic bone all the way back to the tailbone (front to back) and between the right and left sides of the pelvis. This layer also assists with the bodily functions listed above, but also plays a vital role in the strength and stabilization of the core, pelvis, hips, and spine.
The elusive KEGEL - Many of you have heard of a Kegel exercise, oftentimes to the extent of “do your kegels” and not much more. Let’s shed some light on the subject.
Kegels were developed by an obstetrician/gynecologist named Arnold Kegel who first published his ideas in 1948 as a treatment for urinary incontinence in women. (Yep, you guessed it… they’re named after a dude)
The squeezers and the lifters: What exactly is a Kegel exercise?
It’s best to think of the pelvic floor producing two main movements. The SQUEEZE and the LIFT.
Remember the first two layers? They are the SQUEEZERS.
The third (deepest) layer? The LIFTERS.
A Kegel exercise requires all of these muscles to coordinate and create both a squeezing and a lifting motion. In doing this, it controls your bladder/bowel functions while at the same time creating a stable base for your abdomen and spine!
Needless to say, the pelvic floor has several very important jobs to do. If you are experiencing urinary, bowel, or sexual dysfunction, the pelvic floor could be playing a role in your symptoms.
As stated above, the pelvic floor assists in stabilization of the pelvis, hips, and spine. Low back or hip pain that has been stubbornly not responding to treatment? It is very possible that the missing piece to the puzzle is addressing the pelvic floor.
Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest itself in many different ways. If you’re experiencing ANY of these signs or symptoms, please reach out and tell me your story. I can help you decide if a pelvic floor physical therapy evaluation is appropriate in your situation.
Written by:
Dual Board-Certified Pelvic Floor Therapist and Owner of Bonneville Pelvic Health
As an expert in pelvic floor rehabilitation, Dr. Bailee Burningham brings extensive experience in treating complex pelvic floor disorders. She is dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
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